Guide to Health Careers

Paramedic/Ambulance Attendant

from: http://www.communityhealthcareers.com/careers_paramedic.htm

Ambulance attendants are usually first at the scene in emergency situations. An extension of the hospital, their job is to quickly assess the medical needs of patients and provide emergency care before transporting patients to the hospital. People’s lives depend on their ability to make good decisions with speed and sound judgement, and the environment in which this must be done is often panicked and sometimes dangerous. Ambulance attendants must be strong, brave people who are able to work under intense pressure and be willing to put their own health at risk to help save the lives of others.

The Cool Things They Do:

Assess the extent of injuries or illness of trauma victims
Collect information on patients’ health conditions, such as a drug allergies, epilepsy, or diabetes
Give emergency medical care including CPR, splints, and bandaging
Decide on medications necessary and administer them
Take the patient to a hospital by ambulance and inform the hospital staff about the person's medical history and current problem
Keep their ambulances and equipment in good condition and well-stocked with supplies
Write reports about the emergency situations and care given

Working Conditions:

Ambulance attendants work both indoors and outdoors—travelling back and forth between emergency situations and hospitals. They work under intense conditions and are often exposed to violence from drug overdose victims and mentally ill patients. They also risk exposure to dangerous diseases. With their work involving a great deal of bending and heavy lifting, they face physical strain as well as possible hearing loss from loud sirens. It is stressful and emotionally-taxing. Ambulance attendants usually work long (24-hour) shifts.

Most Paramedics/Ambulance Attendants Work In:

Hospitals
Private ambulance services
Municipal and provincial governments
Fire departments
Industrial settings

Personal Characteristics/Skills:

Strong desire to help people in times of crisis
Sensitivity, compassion, and patience
Good memory and quick recall for assessing situations and making judgements
Ability to be decisive and work well under intense pressure in unexpected situations
Strong oral and written communication skills
Capability to function with little sleep
Good physical fitness

Education and Training Required:

College Diploma in Ambulance, Emergency Care or Paramedics followed by a supervised practical training period

Length of Study/Training : 2-3 years post-secondary

Certification (s):

Ontario : must pass Emergency Medical Care Assistant (E.M.C.A.) examinations

Helpful High School Courses:

Math
Sciences
English
First-aid

Employment Prospects - GOOD

Our growing and aging population, restructured health care funding, and pressure for more on-scene medical attention have all increased demand. There are currently more job openings than qualified people to fill them. Demand will likely also grow because of an increase in urban living, as well as stress-induced turnover among employees.

Earnings:

Average Annual Salary: $35,000 - $45,000.

More Information:

Paramedic Association of Canada
http://www.paramedic.ca

Land Ambulance Transition (Ontario)
http://www.amo-ehs.com

Ontario Paramedic Association
http://www.ontarioparamedic.ca

Toronto Emergency Medical Services
http://www.city.toronto.on.ca/ems

Job Futures: Ambulance Attendants and Other Paramedical Occupations
http://jobfutures.ca/noc/3234.shtml