When you become a paramedic, you will have a job that is most definitely rewarding, as you will always have the opportunity to help those who are in need. However, the process of becoming a paramedic is certainly not easy, as it requires you to put in long training hours, as well as constantly be quick on your feet helping an endless amount of patients, all while remaining as calm as possible.
If becoming a paramedic is something that you’ve been looking to do, here are the necessary steps that you need to follow in order to make that happen.
*Firstly, you will need at least your high school diploma or a GED before you can begin taking any classes towards beginning your paramedic training. Once you have this, you will want to consider taking courses such as anatomy, physiology, and biology.
*In order to become a paramedic, you will also be required to have a completely clean record, meaning you will have to pass a background check and have no felonies whatsoever regarding drug usage or any other crimes. This is because a paramedic is required to show great respect for the law.
*In terms of age, you are required to be at least 18-years-old in order to qualify for paramedic training.
*There are also certain qualities that a paramedic should possess, and having them already will make you a much stronger candidate to become one, as well as make you much more prepared for the job in many ways. On the other hand, you can always work to develop these qualities, which are as follows: compassion, listening skills, interpersonal skills, problem solving skills, strength, and communication skills.
*While it isn’t required for you to do so, it could be a good idea for you to speak a foreign language; however, it should be noted that this is a quality that won’t actually guarantee you a job, though it will give you a major boost in the actual application process, especially since there are a lot of paramedics that don’t actually speak a foreign language.
*Become CPR certified. This is a requirement for anyone who is looking to become a paramedic. Generally, there are four basic levels: Emergency Medical Responder (First Responder), Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT), Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (Intermediate; not recognized certification in all states), and Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic.
*Take and pass the National Registry Emergency Medical Technician-Basic examination, which is done over the computer and can be challenging, as the test questions get harder as the examination moves forward. This examination includes hands-on testing as well, which means you should practice your EMT skills prior to taking it so that you feel as comfortable as possible.
*Enroll in a paramedic school, which you can actually do at any community college or technical school in your area. Typically, you will have to complete approximately 1,300 hours of training, which equates to around two years, and this can cost upwards of $15,000 and does not include the cost of books. Before coming to a final decision regarding where to go, take the time to research all of your options.
*Finally, to become a full-fledged paramedic, complete all of your training. In order to make this happen, you will need to ensure that you do the following: get IV-certified by successfully completing an IV class, take an interpretation class in echocardiograms (EKGs), take classes in Advanced Human Anatomy and Physiology (which are, in some cases, required), pass college-level math/biology/English classes, and become fully certified in Pediatric Advanced Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support.