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 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). Students will be required to attend three, one-week long mandatory practical sessions per semester at specific dates and attend hospital based clinical shifts each semester. Hospital based clinical shifts will be broken down into individual shifts spread throughout the semester (semester 1 - equivalent of one-week hospitality shifts; semester 2 - equivalent of two-weeks of hospitality shifts; and, semester 3 - equivalent of three-weeks of hospitality shifts).
This is a challenging program that provides the student with extensive learning experiences while also allowing currently employed PCPs the opportunity to advance their skills. Graduates of this post-diploma program will be prepared to work competently and skillfully, 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:
1. Perform advanced skills in respiratory, cardiac, trauma, obstetric care, paediatrics, pharmacology, and medical emergencies.
2. Meet the entry-to-practice competencies and requirements of an Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP) as defined by the National Occupational Competency Profile for Paramedics.
3. Contribute productively as a member of the health care team.
4. Use judgement and critical thinking skills to reach decisions that will best benefit the patient, and work autonomously in their areas of responsibility.
5. Use critical thinking and problem-solving skills that promote logical and independent decision-making in the provision of ACP care.
CLINICAL PLACEMENTS
Clinical placements are a required element of this program and students will be assigned placements at approved training sites. Additional sites may be considered in consultation with program faculty. There is no guarantee that students will receive their preferred placement. All expenses associated with the completion of clinical placement will be the responsibility of the student.
Students require a clear Certificate of Conduct (Criminal Record Check and Vulnerability Sector Check) to be permitted into a clinical placement. Students with an unclear Certificate of Conduct are advised to speak with program faculty at the beginning of the program.
For programs with competitive admissions, clinical placements are not affected by ranking in the competitive admissions process and will be determined under institutional guidelines.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
- Completion of a paramedic diploma or certificate with successful completion of national COPR examination (PCP) or provincial equivalent
- A comprehensive entrance exam covering prerequisite PCP knowledge and skills administered by CNA
- Minimum of one-year experience (1,900 hours) as a Primary Care Paramedic
Additional Entrance Requirements
- Hold and maintain an active license to practice as a PCP in the province of NL for the duration of the program.
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Valid** Certificate of Conduct, including Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check
- Students will require a clear and current Certificate of Conduct (Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check) prior to clinical practicum. Applicants with a criminal offense listed on their Certificate of Conduct (Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check) may be denied access to clinical placement and may be unable to complete their program.
- Immunization Record providing evidence that the applicant has received the required vaccinations/screening tests. Completing the immunization record will require physician's visits, blood tests, and a TB screening test; detailed instructions are included on the School of Health Sciences Student Information and Program Awareness Form. The applicant is responsible for ensuring that all medical requirements are fulfilled, and the immunization record complete before submission. Certain vaccinations require a series of immunizations over a period; therefore, it is essential to start the process as early as possible. The applicant is also responsible for all associated costs (vaccinations, laboratory testing, physician fees, certificate of conduct fees, etc.).
** See the Additional Information for Health Sciences Applicants (Definitions and Regulations) section of the calendar or under the Admissions Regulations section of our website for details.