Education and Training
Paramedics are inducted and trained through the Ambulance Education Centre (AEC) based in Rozelle, Sydney. This facility has the capacity to train nearly 200 staff in various clinical and technical courses at any time and is a registered training organisation with the Vocational Educational and Training Accreditation Boards.
Ambulance educators cover all aspects of ambulance skills consistent with best practice and are responsible for facilitating competency based and accredited training programs. This ensures each paramedic's clinical and technical skills are of the highest standard.
Clinical educators deliver complex theoretical and clinical information including subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, physics, chemistry, biology and mathematics. Paramedic educators deliver technical education programs, providing practical skills in areas such as protocols, use of equipment, CPR and on road skills.
Once on-road paramedics are supported by clinical training officers (CTOs) who are available across the State. CTOs travel between ambulance stations providing on-site training and tuition to both new and long serving paramedics. Ambulance also has regional training centres where ongoing clinical practice and professional development of all paramedics and intensive care paramedics occurs.
Clinical Skills
Paramedics complete a three year (or equivalent) period of training, study and on-road practical to obtain a Diploma in Paramedical Science and qualify as a paramedic. They have the ability to apply many life saving skills and drug administrations to assist in a wide variety of illnesses and accidental injuries.
The medical treatment provided by paramedics is guided by approved protocols, pharmacology and clinical procedures. These provide a clear indication of how treatment should be provided by paramedics for each clinical condition (eg cardiac, trauma). Protocols, pharmacology and clinical procedures are treatment focused and are regularly reviewed. Changes are made by the Ambulance Clinical Advisory Committee on the basis of evidence based medicine, experience, and input from paramedics in the field.
Ambulance has a fully accredited Ambulance Education Centre as well as regional training units that deliver in-service training, online learning courses and clinical support programs which include workshops and clinical assistance.