if so do u like ur job and how much trainning and schooling is involved?
2006-10-03 08:43:04 · 3 answers · asked by cwa 2 in Education & Reference ➔ Other - Education
I'm a brand new paramedic, and I love my job!
You can either go to school for one year, and recieve a certificate of completion, or go to school for two years and get an associate's degree.
After you complete the course, then you usually have to do an internship on an ambulance for 250-500 hours (depending on the state - every state has different rules). After you complete the internship, you get to take the National Registry tests (oral, written, and practical test). When you pass that, you are a Nationally Registered paramedic, but you can't work in a state until you get licensed for that particular state (every state has different requirements for paramedic licensure). In Alabama (the state I work in) all you have to do is complete a couple of more classes to become state-licensed.
Every two years, you have to get relicensed at both the state and National levels. This usually involves taking some continuing education classes and/or taking a 48 hour recertification class. You don't have to take the National Registry test again, though.
It can be a very stressful job. Today I had a lady who was barely breathing, and was intubated as soon as we arrived in the ER, and I transported two motor vehicle accident victims who were so critically injured that the entire trauma team was standing by.
The other day, I went on a call where some children died. That was a hard one, but you eventually learn to deal with the stress.
It's also hard, with the irregular and unpredictable hours that we work. I work a 24 hour on/ 48 hour off shift, and have been known to go the entire 24 hours without sleep (because of emergencies all night long!).
However, this is one of the most rewarding jobs that I've ever had the pleasure of working. There's nothing like knowing that you made a difference in someone's life!
Hope this helps!
2006-10-03 13:41:41 · answer #1 · answered by rita_alabama 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Like the job. Done it since the late 1980's. It is pretty involved and takes about a year where I live. You have to have a strong stomach and be able to think fast on your feet, make decisions. I cannot do it anymore due to a bad back, but I loved it. I just help out with a volunteer squad sometimes.
2006-10-03 15:53:58 · answer #2 · answered by diturtlelady2004 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, Im not one but I know your answer. 2 years of school, have to then pass a training exam through the fire department.
2006-10-03 16:15:16 · answer #3 · answered by Christina W 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋