How to become a Paramedic

How to become a Paramedic Do you pride yourself on how calm you can be in a crisis? Are you happiest when helping people? If you answered yes, then you might make the perfect Paramedic.A Paramedic is the healthcare professional who will be responsible for responding to emergency calls to accidents or medical emergencies. They are usually first on the scene and frequently provide life-saving treatment to anyone from an elderly person suffering a stroke to the victim of a car accident.If you train as a Paramedic, youll:Respond to 999 callsAssess each patients situation as soon as you reach themProvide emergency treatment using drugs and equipment like defibrillatorsDrive the patient to hospital in your ambulance, if necessaryProvide a brief yet detailed report of the patients injury or illness upon arrival at hospitalIs it right for me?As a Paramedic, youll need to deal with all kinds of medical emergencies, so its not ideal for anyone whos squeamish. Also, you could be outdoors in all weathers this isnt for y ou if you like the comfort of a cosy office.You should be:Excellent communication skillsResponsible, and the ability to take own initiativeCalm and quick-thinking in a crisisAble to convey medical information succinctlyGood with people, including relatives of the injured who may be hystericalWhat's it really like? For me, being a Paramedic is the most exciting job possible, as you never know what situation will crop up from day to day. Sometimes it can be emotionally draining, but I feel a real sense of achievement every time I help someone through what will probably have been one of the most difficult days of their life. I wouldn't want to do anything else. Get qualifiedTo train as a Paramedic, youll need minimum of five GCSEs (including English, mathematics and/or a science), plus at least two A-levels or the equivalent. You could also find first aid certificates and membership of organisations like St John Ambulance useful when youre starting out. A full, clean driving license is also essential.