Paramedics once saved my life and at the time I did not give it much consideration, however recently I was awakened in the wee hours of the morning by the sound of sirens and it made me think about my serious car accident 25 years ago and about the people, Paramedics, that provide this valuable and necessary service.
Through some research I discovered that Employment for Paramedics is expected to grow faster than the average of most other occupations through 2012. Population growth and urbanization will increase the demand for full-time paid Paramedics. In addition, a large segment of the population – the aging baby boomers – will further spur the demand for Paramedic services as they become more likely to have medical issues and emergencies.
Peoples’ lives often depend on the quick reaction and competent care of Paramedics. Incidents as varied as automobile accidents, heart attacks, drowning, childbirth, and gunshot wounds all require immediate medical attention. Paramedics provide the vital attention as they care for and transport the sick and injured to a medical facility.
In an emergency, Paramedics are typically dispatched to the scene by a 911 operator and often work with police and fire department personnel. Once they arrive, they determine the nature and extent of a patient’s condition while trying to ascertain whether the patient has preexisting medical problems. Following strict rules and guidelines, they give appropriate emergency care and, when necessary, transport the patients.
Some paramedics are trained to treat patients with minor injuries on the scene of an accident or at their home without transporting to a medical facility. Emergency treatment for more complicated problems is carried out under the direction of medical doctors by radio, preceding or during transport.
Paramedics provide the most extensive pre-hospital care. In addition to carrying out the procedures described above, paramedics may administer drugs orally or intravenously, interpret electro cardiograms (EKGs), and use monitors and other complex equipment. Since the field of paramedicine has a strong physical requirement and is a high-stress occupation, graduates must have attained and developed plans to maintain their personal health, fitness levels and well-being.
It is a career for strong-minded individuals, who are also compassionate with care-giving natures.
Trillium College offers a Paramedic Program – see www.trilliumcollege.ca for more information
Kathy Young
416-487-0002
