Paramedics are medical professionals who operate outside medical facilities, either in ambulances or other emergency vehicles, to offer emergency care to patients. When patients need further medical attention, they also oversee the transportation of patients to a health care facility and ensure they remain stable during transit. Paramedics differ from an emergency medical responder (EMR), who performs less advanced functions. Paramedics are also responsible for administering medication and filing reports.
Some duties include: responding to emergencies, assessing and treating patients, and transporting patients. Patients receiving palliative care in Nova Scotia can get support from paramedics for pain and symptom management at home.
There are paramedic education programs in Dartmouth, NS and Charlottetown, PEI. For more information, visit medaviehealthed.com or hollandcollege.com.