Paramedic PAR

Holland Code: R (Realistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This program is very competitive; applicants will likely need some post-secondary experience to be competitive. The Pre-Health Science program is the recommended preparation for this program.

Literacy Strong written and verbal communications skills are needed. High school courses in Business and Technological Communication would be good preparation.

Math & Science Accurate math skills needed  for drug dosage and vital signs calculations. Strong interest and ability in chemistry, biology and anatomy needed.

Technology Basic computer skills recommended (Microsoft Office suite, Internet, checking student portal daily). Mobile / tablet skills required (iOS device).

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Work well under pressure
• Strong leadership abilities; able to provide clear directions to people
• Sound decision making skills
• A strong desire to help those in need, sick people of all ages
• Ability to empathize with others
• Ability to work on a team
• Self-motivation and work independently
• The ability to remain firm, reassuring and efficient in moments of crisis
• Willing to handle situations involving blood, body fluids and matter and extreme personal situations
• Ability to comply with industry (professional) standards & expectations

Useful background experience for this program would be

St. John’s ambulance volunteer, Leadership experience (school council, youth group or church leader, camp counsellor), or experience as a lifeguard.

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a

Primary Care Paramedic.

Places you may find yourself employed include

Paramedic service, emergency medical transport, patient transfer, hospitals, community events.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• This work is physically demanding. Emergency medical personnel are required to lift loads in excess of 95kg (210lbs) with assistance.
• Observe safety precautions to avoid injury when working with equipment and exposure to potentially hazardous biological agents.
• Work both indoors and outdoors, often in stressful circumstances.
• Work shifts that including evenings, weekends and holidays; may work 8, 10, 12, 14 or 24 hour shifts.
• Diverse/uncontrolled working conditions, including periods of inactivity
• Deal with blood/vomit/body material/body parts
• Placed in situations that most never see, involved with extremes of human behaviour

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• See full list at Ontarioparamedic.ca
• Conduct patient assessments
• Provide basic airway management
• Administer oxygen by demand, by bag-valve-mask or basic mechanical ventilation
• Perform cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• Provide basic trauma care (e.g. spinal and wound care, limb immobilization/traction)
• A dminister symptom relief medications and perform semi-automated external defibrillation (SAED)

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) Advanced Emergency Medical Care Assistant (AEMCA) certification
• Ontario Paramedic Association
• Paramedic Association of Canada
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

• Graduates may apply for the Advanced Care Paramedic graduate certificate.
• With further training, can advance to Critical Care Flight Paramedic.

Last Modified: January 19, 2024