Paramedic
Paramedics provide pre-hospital emergency care, treatment and specialised transport for patients.
Paramedics may perform the following tasks:
- drive ambulances to sites of medical emergencies and accidents that may require the administration of advanced life support
- lift and place patients on stretchers, load the stretchers into ambulances and transport patients to hospital
- assess and treat patients on the way to hospital
- administer pain-relieving drugs and replace fluids, often by inserting tubes into veins
- prepare patient care records and other written reports on the state of patients' injuries and the treatment provided
- attend public gatherings, such as large sporting events, where accidents or other health emergencies may occur
- provide routine transport for patients between home and hospital (e.g. for patients requiring further treatment or specialised treatment such as occupational therapy and chemotherapy)
- perform daily vehicle and equipment checks, making sure that medical supplies, including drugs are accounted for and that equipment and ambulances are in good working order.
Specialisations:
Intensive Care Paramedic
An intensive care paramedic attends life-threatening emergencies such as heart attacks and car accidents, and gives intensive treatment to patients before arrival at hospital. They receive more training in the areas of anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology and pharmacology to increase their capacity to make complex clinical decisions without medical consultation.
Paramedic Clinical Instructor
A paramedic clinical instructor delivers training and support to paramedic interns.
Rescue Paramedic
A rescue paramedic provides pre-hospital care in remote and difficult locations. They must be highly skilled, as most rescue operations are undertaken in life-threatening circumstances.
Paramedics work in teams and in shifts. They work in all kinds of weather conditions. They are required to assist at a range of incidents, including motor vehicle accidents and medical emergencies inside and outside domestic premises, building sites and public areas. They may work in confined spaces, such as under vehicles and buildings, and at sites of hazardous material accidents, such as fires and chemical spills. They work closely with members of other emergency services such as firefighters, police and the State Emergency Service (SES).
Personal Requirements:
- able to remain calm and control emotions in stressful situations
- able to think clearly and act quickly
- good level of health and fitness
- good analytical and problem-solving skills
- able to work alone and as part of a team
- able to follow instructions and guidelines
- good communication and interpersonal skills
- clear decision-making skills and judgement
- caring, tolerant and non-judgmental attitude
- enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds
- committed to developing and maintaining skills.
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