Job Outlook
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for EMTs and paramedics is projected to grow 5% over the next 10 years (1).
Functional Skill Requirements
The functional skills listed below apply to students in the paramedic program. Students entering this program must have the ability to, but not limited to:
- Verbally communicate in person, via telephone and telecommunications using the English language;
- Hear spoken information from co-workers, patients, physicians, and dispatchers and sounds common to the emergency scene;
- Lift, carry, and balance a minimum of 125 pounds equally distributed (250 pounds with assistance), a height of 33 inches, and a distance of 10 feet;
- Read and comprehend written materials under stressful conditions;
- Use a prescribed format to document patient information in writing or by entry into a computer program;
- Demonstrate manual dexterity and fine motor skills, with ability to perform all tasks related to quality patient care in a safe manner;
- Bend, stoop, crawl, and walk on even surfaces; and
- Meet minimum vision requirements to operate a motor vehicle within the state.
See the functional job analysis for more information on physical and mental requirements for the paramedic.
Occupational Risks
Provision of emergency medical services poses inherent occupational risks for EMS responders. Risks include the following.
- Violence/assaults
- Verbal threats/aggression
- Motor vehicle crashes
- Infectious disease
- Lifting injuries
- Sprains and strains
- Psychological trauma
- Hazardous chemical exposure
- Hyper/hypothermia
Reference
- EMTs and Paramedics. (2023 Sept 6). Job Outlook Handbook. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed 10/30/2023. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/emts-and-paramedics.htm