Keith A. Dawson
Eng. 099
06-14-10
Definition Essay
Being a Paramedic in Today’s World.
The role of the modern paramedic is one of a highly trained emergency-care professional, gone are the days of the “stretcher-bearer” or “ambulance driver.” Paramedics are given the task of providing a rapid medical response to emergency situations, such things as; motor vehicle traffic accidents, accidents at home, or even major incidents such as train crashes. This work involves on-site assessment of patients and their immediate needs, as well as providing the necessary treatment for those people involved. Paramedics are trained to be able to administer intravenous drugs for treatment of medical issues, administer oxygen, and use equipment such as a heart defibrillator on patients that need immediate help. Through their work, paramedics are likely to encounter emotionally charged and distressing situations. They also may encounter the “danger element” when patients may become violent towards those trying to help them. Paramedics can thus been seen to work within a stressful and pressured work environment, where lives can be affected by the outcome of their actions. This can be made even more difficult by the long working hours (a shift may consist of up to 12 hours straight) as well as a shift pattern of numerous days in a row, on duty. The role therefore has a huge amount of responsibility, thus the qualities these services are looking for in these applicants are among the highest.
Some important qualities of an applicant interested in pursuing a career in the paramedic field are; responsibility, a caring attitude, good people skills, common sense, the ability to keep cool in a crisis situation, and academic ability. Due to the level of care, the person’s intellectual ability, identified through academic qualifications, is required. This requirement is due to the amount of training and expert emergency care knowledge that must be gained before someone is able to...