Emergency care technologists give immediate emergency care to sick or injured persons. They try to resuscitate and stabilize patients and prevent further injuries.
They drive in specially equipped vehicles to the scene of emergencies. As and when necessary, they will request additional help from the police or fire department. At an emergency scene they make quick assessments of patients and give appropriate treatment. Procedures may include:
- opening airways
- restoring breathing
- controlling bleeding
- treating for shock
- administering oxygen
- immobilising fractures
- assisting in childbirth
- managing emotionally disturbed patients
- treating and assisting heart attack victims
Emergency care technologists work indoors and outdoors in all types of weather. Much of their time is spend kneeling, standing, bending and lifting. They are also exposed to diseases such as AIDS and Hepatitis-B, as well as violence.
Satisfying Aspects
- helping to save lives
- doing a job that is more of a calling or vocation than just a job
- being able to work in the medical field without years of education
Demanding aspects
- working long and irregular hours
- working shifts and over weekends, holidays and public holidays
- sometiimes being unable to save a victim's life
Requirements
An emergency care technologist should:
- be able to make quick decisions in a calm and assured way;
- have good judgement and be emotionally stable;
- be empathetic, responsible, dependable and sincere;
- be physically fit;
- have good eyesight, good dexterity and quick reflexes;
- have ability to remain alert during long drives to hospitals
- be prepared to work shifts and after-hours
- be at least 18 years old
- useful to have a valid driver's licence
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics
Recommended Subjects: Life Sciences, Physical Sciences
Training
Diploma: in Emergency Care - CPUT, CUT, DUT, UJ, UCT, UNISA
Employer
- Provincial and private ambulance and emergency services
- Local authorities
- Civil defence units
- The mining industry
- Private emergency evacuation services
Contact
South African Emergency Services Institute
P O Box 613
Krugersdorp, 1740
Tel: (011) 660-5672 Fax: (011) 660-1887
www.saesi.com