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Paramedics are
highly trained emergency medical technicians that provide the most
extensive pre-hospital care. As with other EMTs, paramedics provide
patients with basic life support skills including: air way management,
control of bleeding, treatment of shock, oxygen therapy, treatment of
environmental emergencies, burn care, splitting and bandaging techniques,
vehicle and water extraction, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency
child birth. They often respond to such things as heart attacks,
unexpected childbirth, car accidents, and fires. They are also responsible
for explaining the situation to local hospital staff in order to expedite
the triage process.
In addition to the duties described
above, paramedics may administer drugs orally and intravenously, interpret
electrocardiograms (EKGs), perform endotracheal intubations, and use
monitors and other high-tech equipment. This profession can be physically
and emotionally demanding. Paramedics must have the ability to lift, move,
and secure patients using a number of immobilization and transportation
techniques and devices. They must also have the emotional strength and
stamina to deal with life and death situations.
Work Environment:
Paramedics may be employed by
hospitals, rescue squads, fire and police departments, commercial
ambulance services, and by private industry. They face moderate amounts of
work-place hazards such as considerable kneeling, bending, and heavy
lifting, exposure to diseases such as hepatitis-B and AIDS, and violence
from mentally unstable patients or drug overdose victims.
High School Preparation:
High school
subjects helpful to those preparing for a career as a paramedic are
biology, chemistry, psychology, sociology, physical education, algebra,
computer skills, English, drivers education, first aid, and health
occupations /medical professions education.
College Requirements:
Students entering an EMT/Paramedic
training program must be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma and a
driver's license with a good driving record. Individuals must complete a
two year Associate Degree program in emergency medical technology and pass
a national certification examination given by the National Registry of
Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT).
For educational institutions in
Mississippi
offering this course of study click here.
Career Outlook:
Population growth and urbanization will
increase demand for emergency medical technicians and paramedics by 21% -
35% over the next 10 years. The increased demand is a result of the aging
population of baby boomers and because more communities are moving from
volunteer EMT's and paramedics to full time paid positions. The baby boom
generation will also increase the need for trained paramedics because they
are more likely to experience medical emergencies such as heart attacks
and strokes. The greatest demand for EMT's and paramedics is expected to
occur in hospitals and private ambulance services.
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Salary:
Average Annual Salary
$30,200
Salary Range
$26,000 - $44,200
Professional Organizations:
East Central Community College
P.O. Box 129
Decatur, MS 39237
Phone: (601) 635-3237
Web: www.eccc.cc.ms.us
Holmes Community College
1060 Avent Drive
Grenada, MS 38901
Phone: (662) 226-0830
Web: www.holmes.cc.ms.us
Itawamba Community College
602 West Hill Street
Fulton, MS 38843
Phone: (662) 862-8000
Web: www.icc.cc.ms.us
Jones Junior College
900 S. Court Street
Ellisville, MS 39437
Phone: (601) 477-4000
Web: www.jcjc.cc.ms.us
MS Gulf Coast Community College
PO Box 77
Lucedale, MS 39452
Phone: (601) 947-4201
Web: www.mgccc.cc.ms.us
Northwest MS Community College
P.O. Box 7045
Senatobia, MS 38668
Phone: (662) 562-3200
Web: www.northwestms.edu
University of MS Medical Center
2500 North State Street
Jackson, MS 39216
Phone: (601)984-1080
Web: www.umc.edu |
