Paramedics resuscitate and stabilize the condition of critically ill or injured persons by applying emergency care prior to their transport to hospital and by ensuring that their patients continue to receive care en route to hospital.
All ambulances are in contact with a central control centre by radio or computer. On receiving a call, the nearest available ambulance or rapid response vehicle is despatched to the scene. After a call has been received, two paramedics hasten to the emergency scene, observing traffic safety rules and legislation pertaining to emergency vehicles.
Upon arrival at the scene they make a survey of both the patient and the situation to decide upon suitable treatment, which is then applied, including basic life-support and the treatment of wounds and fractures. They resuscitate and stabilize the condition of critically ill or injured persons by applying emergency care procedures. Specialized equipment and rescue tools, such as the "Jaws of Life" can be used to free anyone that is trapped in the wreckage.
They also make the site of the emergency safe and manage bystanders. The patient is placed on a stretcher and taken to hospital. En route treatment is provided and a report on the patient's condition and the treatment received is supplied to the hospital. After this procedure the ambulance and emergency care workers return to a base where the vehicle, linen and equipment are cleaned and/or replaced.
Paramedics work mostly outdoors in and around their vehicles. Work settings vary according to the different emergencies they respond to, while working hours may vary from one service to another. Paramedics work on a two-platoon, with every second weekend off duty. They may be required to work overtime. Unfavourable weather conditions or less than pleasant circumstances often prevail.
Some form of previous medical training or knowledge is advantageous but not essential as training generally starts at a basic level. Paramedics are at the top of the ambulance service grades. A career route usually progresses through the following levels of Ambulance Care Assistant and Ambulance Technician.
Satisfying Aspects
- knowing that you are serving your community
- the variety of the work and work settings
- the personal contact with patients and their families
- saving people’s lives
Demanding aspects
- working shifts
- having to work over weekends and on holidays
- being responsible for people's lives
- working in adverse weather conditions
- hazardous driving to and from emergencies
- when a patient dies
- working under pressure
Requirements
A paramedic and emergency care worker should:
- be at least 18 years old;
- have a valid driver's licence;
- have above-average physical strength and fitness to be able to move unconscious or injured patients;
- be in good health (he has to pass a medical test);
- have manual dexterity;
- have sound judgement and level-headed;
- be sympathetic and able to remain calm in emergency situations;
- think clearly and act quickly, appropriate and purposeful;
- be able to work individually and in a team;
- be reliable and responsible;
- be unselfish.
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Grade 10 Certificate for in-service training
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Recommended Subjects: Life Sciences
Training
Training: Emergency Medicine - UCT, Emergency Medical Care - UJ, CUT, CPUT, Emergency Medical Care and Rescue - DUT
In-service training: Basic Ambulance Course (BAC): a 4-week orientation and training course must be passed for permanent appointment.
Ambulance College: After 6 months service, the candidate may enrol for the Ambulance Emergency Assistant (AEA) course of 11 weeks offered here.
Successful candidates register at the Health Professions Council of SA as an ambulance emergency assistant.
Advanced training courses include: Basic Medical Rescue; Critical Care Assistant; and Minimum Safety Driving.
Employer
- Municipalities, divisional councils and provincial administrations
- Industry
- Private ambulance organisations
- Private clinics and hospitals
- Civil defence units
- SANDF
- Mining industry
Contact
South African Emergency Services Institute
P O Box 38577
Booysens, 2016
Tel: (011) 683-6315
South African Emergency Services Institute
P O Box 613
Krugersdorp, 1740
Tel: (011) 660-5672
www.saesi.com