The provision of emergency medical services (EMS) is a unique and vital community service. Paramedics are highly skilled members of a health care team who function in the realm of EMS, initiating medical treatment for individuals in urgent and non-urgent situations. Based on sound knowledge, paramedics demonstrate rational problem-solving abilities and excellent decision-making skills. This program addresses not only the operational/procedural skills of the advanced care paramedic but also ethical and professional behaviors essential to practice, such as effective communication.
The Advanced Care Paramedicine Program is a four semester post-diploma program offering training in advanced emergency care to Primary Care Paramedics who are presently practicing in one of the four regional health authorities in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Mental/physical fitness and healthy lifestyles are emphasized throughout the program, as paramedics must be fit to perform the requirements of the occupation.
This
post-diploma program is designed to allow advancement of practice from the PCP level to the ACP level while allowing students to maintain employment in their respective communities. The program utilizes a blended delivery and part-time structure with a combination of D2L based learning, clinical simulation, and clinical practicum to allow students to meet the requirements for entry to practice at the ACP level in accordance with the National Occupational Competency Profile for Paramedics (NOCP).
This is a challenging program that provides the student with extensive learning experiences while also allowing currently employed PCPs and the opportunity to advance their skills. Graduates of this post-diploma program will be prepared to work in a competent and skillful manner providing advanced out-of-hospital care in accordance with the national standards for advanced care paramedics.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
Upon successful completion of the Advanced Care Paramedicine program, graduates will be able to:
- Perform advanced skills in respiratory, cardiac, trauma, obstetric care, paediatrics, pharmacology, and medical emergencies.
- Meet the entry-to-practice competencies and requirements of an Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP) as defined by the National Occupational Competency Profile for Paramedics.
- Contribute productively as a member of the health care team.
- Use judgement and critical thinking skills to reach decisions that will best benefit the patient, and work autonomously in their areas of responsibility.
- Use critical thinking and problem-solving skills that promote logical and independent decision-making in the provision of ACP care.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
- Successful completion of a two-year primary care paramedicine diploma or equivalent
- Successful completion of national COPR examination or provincial equivalent
- Grade of 70% on comprehensive entrance exam on prerequisite PCP knowledge and skills
- A minimum of 3500 hours of work experience within the last five years with a licensed paramedic service that must be demonstrated by providing letter(s) from current or recent employers.
- Letter of support from the sponsoring employer indicating commitment to release time to facilitate both on-site simulation assessments and required clinical placement time as prescribed for completion of the program
- Upon admission, applicants must hold and maintain an active license to practice as a PCP in the province of NL for the duration of the program.
- Current Certificate of Conduct (including Vulnerable Sector Check)
- Immunization Record
NOTE:
This program is not open for application as it requires working experience / recommendation from an employer.