Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)/Paramedic

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Emergency Response:

• Respond to emergency calls and assess patients' conditions.
• Provide immediate medical care and transport patients to healthcare facilities.

2. Patient Assessment:

• Conduct thorough assessments of patients, including taking vital signs and medical histories.
• Determine the nature and extent of illnesses or injuries.

3. Medical Care:

• Administer medications, perform basic and advanced life support techniques, and use medical equipment (e.g., defibrillators, oxygen delivery systems).
• Perform procedures such as intubation, IV placement, and wound care (for Paramedics).

4. Communication:

• Communicate effectively with dispatchers, hospital staff, and other emergency responders.
• Provide detailed reports on patient conditions and treatment given during transport.

5. Patient Transport:

• Safely transport patients to medical facilities while continuing care en route.
• Ensure proper handling and stabilization of patients during transport.

6. Documentation:

• Maintain accurate records of patient assessments, treatments, and outcomes.
• Complete incident reports and other required documentation.

7. Equipment Maintenance:

• Inspect and maintain medical equipment and vehicles to ensure they are in working order.
• Restock supplies and manage inventory of medical supplies.

8. Training and Education:

• Participate in ongoing training to keep skills current and to learn new techniques.
• Educate patients and their families about medical conditions and treatments.

Skills and Qualifications:

1. Certifications:

• EMTs typically need state certification and completion of an accredited EMT training program.
• Paramedics require advanced training, certification, and often an associate degree in paramedicine.

2. Physical Fitness:

• Must be physically fit to lift and carry patients and equipment.

3. Communication Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with patients, families, and other medical personnel.

4. Problem-Solving:

• Ability to think critically and make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.

5. Compassion and Empathy:

• Demonstrate empathy and compassion while providing care to patients in distress.

Working Conditions:

• EMTs and Paramedics work in various environments, including ambulances, hospitals, and emergency scenes.
• Shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays, is common.
• The role can be physically demanding and may involve exposure to hazardous situations.