What qualifications do I need to be a paramedic?
The qualifications needed to be a paramedic are either a diploma, foundation degree or degree in paramedic science or paramedic practice. To apply for the course you’ll need a full driving license; three A-levels, including a science; and five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English language, maths and science.
How long does it take to qualify as a paramedic?
Paramedic science courses usually take between three or four years full time and include a mixture of theory and practical work including placements with the ambulance services.
What exams do you need to be a paramedic?
You’ll need a minimum of five 9-4 (A*-C) grade GCSEs (or the equivalent), including maths, English and science. If you go onto do further study – such as A levels or an equivalent level 3 qualification, you would have a wider range of options open to you, to become a paramedic.
Do paramedics make good money?
Paramedics generally make an average of about $40,000 annually, but can earn as much as $70,000 or more a year. When deciding whether to become a paramedic vs. EMT, you should know that either choice offers a rewarding career, job security, good pay and a chance to perform an important role in your community.
How hard is it to be a paramedic?
It takes a lot to get through paramedic training because it is a tough job that requires physical stamina, calmness under pressure, medical knowledge, the ability to make quick decisions, and the compassion to be kind to patients even in tough situations.
What are the pros and cons of working as a paramedic?
Pros and Cons of Being an EMT
- Pro: Training is much faster than many other medical professions.
- Con: Being an EMT is labor intensive.
- Pro: You’ll have job stability and room to grow.
- Con: EMT’s are also under a lot of mental strain.
- Pro: Despite the turmoil, it’s an exciting career.
Why you shouldn’t be a paramedic?
Being a paramedic isn’t a great career choice by any objective measurement. Its an incredibly stressful job, and a lot of people find that working in EMS effects their personal lives and relationships in a negative way. The job can be rewarding, but its not rewarding in the way that most people think.
How do you know if you would be a good paramedic?
Strong Stomach: You’re not shy around blood and guts. Being able to look past the blood and the guts and provide care to patients is essential. If you’ve got the stomach to handle blood, and other bodily fluids, broken or severed limbs and other critical injuries, you might just make a good paramedic.
Do paramedics like their job?
Paramedics often work long shifts in high-stress, life-or-death situations. Due to the physically (and psychologically) demanding nature of the job, workers frequently burn out, which can lead to shortages. I was planning on doing firefighting, but in the end, I found that I just really enjoyed the medical work.
Do paramedics have PTSD?
They go on that critical care and emergency nurses had a higher incidence of PTSD symptoms compared with others. Studies[9,10] showed a prevalence rate of 20%–22% for PTSD among paramedic personnel.