Paramedics are Emergency Medical Service Providers who administer advanced prehospital medical treatment and transport sick or injured persons to a medical facility. They respond to instructions from an emergency medical dispatcher and drive a specially equipped emergency vehicle. They monitor communication equipment to maintain contact with the dispatcher and aid in the removal of victims from the scene of an accident or catastrophe. They determine the nature and extent of the illness or injury to establish appropriate medical procedures or need for additional assistance. They administer prescribed medical treatment at the site of an emergency or during transport, performing such activities as application of splints, administration of oxygen, intravenous fluids and injections, treatment of wounds or abrasions, defibrillation, and administration of artificial resuscitation. They assist the treatment center admitting personnel in obtaining and recording information relating to the patient's vital statistics and circumstances of the emergency. Requirements: Must successfully complete Arkansas Criminal History background check and possibly a national check. Must be a currently licensed as an Arkansas Emergency Medical Technician or Advanced EMT. Must complete an approved National EMS Educational Standards course through a CoAEMSP/CAAHEP accredited paramedic program including current didactic, clinical, and field internship requirements. Must challenge and successfully pass the NREMT certification exam (CBT). Examinations and Fees: National Registry (NREMT): $160.00 for Computer Based Test (CBT). Licensure application fee: $20.00 License renewal fee: $20.00 every two years
