Paramedics respond to medical emergencies, and are usually the first senior healthcare professional on the scene. They may find themselves dealing with the aftermath of any situation, from a serious road accident or violent assault to a heart attack or a minor fall.
Paramedics use their skills and high-tech medical equipment to treat and stabilise patients before transporting them to hospital or referring them to alternative services, such as minor injury clinics, social services, and GP surgeries. The role is a critical one. Effective assessment and management at an early stage are vital to a patient’s chances of recovery from serious injury or illness.
A paramedic’s duties typically include:
- assessing the patient’s condition
- starting any necessary treatment
- administering appropriate drugs, including oxygen
- driving the ambulance or response unit
- recording information
- briefing doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals on the patient’s condition
- ensuring that the ambulance and equipment are working and maintained.
Ambulances are well equipped. Paramedics use sophisticated equipment, including:
- defibrillators, which restore the heart’s rhythm
- intravenous infusions (drips)
- spinal immobilisation and traction splints.
Most paramedics drive conventional ambulances. However, some reach their patients by a response car, motorbike or air ambulance. Some city-based ambulance services have paramedics on bicycles to beat traffic congestion.
Paramedics work closely with other medical colleagues and emergency services. They may also deal with patient’s relatives and members of the public.
Some paramedics are now taking on an extended role, carrying out more tests and treatment in the community so that, if appropriate, patients need not attend hospital.
Hours and environment
Paramedics work in a rotating shift pattern. This includes some work at nights, at weekends and on public holidays. Part-time work is possible.
They are based at a local ambulance station or a large hospital. Emergency calls, however, may take a paramedic to any environment. They spend time in their ambulance, in hospital units, and other healthcare settings. Increasingly, paramedics could be working in patients’ homes.
Because the job involves constant travel, a manual driving licence is essential.
Paramedics must be physically fit, to cope with frequent lifting and handling of patients. The nature of the job means working in chaotic or distressing situations and being outdoors in all weathers.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Salaries for qualified paramedics start at €25,000 a year.
- An experienced paramedic can earn up to €35,000.
- Paramedics with additional training and responsibilities can earn up to €40,000.
Skills and personal qualities
A paramedic should:
- have a responsible and caring approach
- have the academic ability to gain the medical knowledge required
- have strong interpersonal and teamwork skills
- be quick thinking and decisive
- be physically fit
- be able to stay calm in a crisis
- have a reassuring manner
- have good oral and written communication skills.
Interests
It is important to:
- have an interest in medicine
- be interested in patient care.
Entry routes
The National Ambulance Service College provides training to Ambulance Personnel, the Irish Coastguard, the Defence Forces, Gardai, Health Care Professionals and members of Voluntary Organisations.