ROLE IN PRE-HOSPITAL EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES:

The Paramedic is an allied health professional. The primary goal of the Paramedic is to provide Advanced Life Support (ALS) and advanced emergency medical care and transportation to the critically ill patient. The Paramedic is proficient in the understanding and application of complex and comprehensive advanced emergency medical treatment. Paramedics function under the oversight of Medical Doctors.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

The Paramedic course is typically an Associate level degree from a college or university with accreditation to hold such courses. After successful completion of the nationally accredited Paramedic program, the Paramedic candidate can sit for the NREMT written and practical exam. Upon completion of the two part NREMT exam, the student is considered a Nationally Registered Paramedic.

MEDICATIONS:

The Paramedic can deliver the medications allowed by their state and local protocols in accordance with those set forth by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). The Paramedic is also allowed to administer any drug that is pre-approved by a Physician. In addition to the AEMT level those medications include:

• All Physician-approved medications
• Maintenance of IV drip medications
• Maintenance of blood transfusions
• Initiation of thrombolytics

SKILL SET:

In addition to the AEMT skill set, Paramedics are responsible for the following:

• Endotracheal Intubation
• IO Insertion
• Endotracheal/NG/Rectal/IO/Topical/IV Port medication administration
• Morgan Lens placement
• Cardioversion
• Carotid Massage
• Manual Defibrillation
• Transcutaneous Pacing
• EKG Interpretation
• 12-Lead EKG Interpretation
• Blood chemistry analysis
• BiPap/CPAP Use
• Needle Chest Decompression
• Chest Tube monitoring
• Waveform Capnography
• Positive End Expiratory Pressure