We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Education

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How Do I Become a Critical Care Paramedic?

By Kesha Ward
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 4,437
Share

Critical care paramedics are the first responders to situations where there have been serious injuries or illnesses. If you would like to become a critical care paramedic, you must complete an educational program that will teach you how to handle critical care situations. Most degree programs are offered at the associate level, but there are bachelor's degree programs in emergency medical care that can be used to qualify for the profession. Employers usually want to see the completion of either a degree or certificate program. It is important that you have the ability to work well under stress and intense pressure to be successful in this field.

Training programs vary because each region has different requirements for those who would like to become a critical care paramedic. You must receive basic trauma life support certification as well as an advanced life support certification. Employers may also require you to register with a paramedic association.

The most common degree obtained by individuals who want to become a critical care paramedic is the associate of applied science. An associate's degree program can typically be completed in two years. The best program will be designed to teach students how to provide emergency medical care while transporting the patient to the hospital.

The coursework required to become a critical care paramedic is split between clinical experience and classroom instruction. Required courses will cover topics related to wellness, general health, and emergency medical care. Students are also exposed to cardiac care, human anatomy, medical trauma care, and pharmacology to help urgently address the needs of critically ill and injured patients.

While enrolled in a program to become a critical care paramedic, you will be required to complete a set number of hours working as a paramedic. Unless you are currently employed as a paramedic, these hours will likely be unpaid. You will be required to demonstrate aptitude in the course work through your experience as a paramedic intern.

After completing a training program and intern hours, you will be ready to apply for jobs. You will have likely have to undergo extensive screening that could include a background check. Some programs conduct background checks to ensure applicants meet the requirements for working with critically ill or injured patients and have the moral character to work in that capacity.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/how-do-i-become-a-critical-care-paramedic.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.