As of 2020, around 250,000 people worked as paramedics in the United States. Paramedics are often first on the scene in emergency situations and play an important role in ensuring patients get the best medical care.

Assessment

When paramedics arrive at the scene of an emergency their role is to assess. They assess the nature of the patient’s injuries and if possible try to find out about any preexisting medical conditions the patient has.

Immobilization

Typically paramedics will immobilize the patient on a backboard and transport him to the ambulance.

Transportation

During the journey to the hospital, one paramedic stays with the patient, monitoring vital signs and taking any action required. The other paramedic drives the ambulance. In some situations patients are transported in a helicopter, but a paramedic will always be in attendance.

Arrival

On arriving at the hospital, paramedics will accompany the patient inside and report any relevant information about preexisting conditions and treatment to medical staff.

Situations

Paramedics are called out to a wide variety of situations, such as traffic accidents, childbirth, falls and gunshot wounds. Some paramedics work in specific areas such as on cruise ships and offshore oil platforms.