Paramedic

J  o  b    D  e  s  c  r  i  p  t  i  o  n

Job Information

Title:

Paramedic

Market Range:

EM12

Approved Date:

1/11/2021 11:30:52 AM

FLSA:

Non-Exempt

EEO Code:

TECHNICIANS

Career Level:

C3

Career Level Description:

Core Services Level 3

Job Code:

100560

Job Family:

Health Services

Sub Family:

Emergency Medical Response

Primary Purpose

Working a rotating 12 hour shift is required. Provides prompt, compassionate and clinically excellent out of hospital emergency medical care to the sick and injured citizens of and visitors to Wake County. Operates emergency vehicles and is responsible for biomedical equipment and other equipment necessary to provide patient and situational assessment, treatment and transport in an emergency setting. Performs routine cleaning and basic maintenance of equipment.

Interacts and communicates with individuals and groups of individuals (patients, the public, members of other agencies and departments) from all education levels, cultural backgrounds, belief structures, and states of health. Serves in a highly visible position in the community and, as such, the incumbent is required to act with a high degree of courtesy, professionalism, and respect and always with the best interest of the welfare of the patient and the public in mind.

The position is distinguished from the EMS Technician by the ability to perform cardiac monitor 12 lead acquisition and interpretation, continuous cardiac monitoring, cardiac pacing, cardioversion, cardiac defibrillation, needle chest decompression, needle and surgical cricothyrotomy, and extensive medication administration. The Paramedic is routinely required to act as a team leader on every patient care scene and is responsible for every action of the patient care team including the actions of first responders agencies such as fire department personnel. The Paramedic also serves as a preceptor for EMT, AEMT and Paramedic students on their clinical rotations from EMS programs locally and nationwide.

•

Working a rotating 12 hour shift is required. Maintains personal readiness to be able to respond, within the 90 second standard, in a prompt, compassionate and clinically excellent manner to requests for service whenever and wherever needed to include all times of day and night and in all types of weather. Adapts, problem solves and multi-tasks in ever changing and sometimes distracting environments. Performs duties that require strength, flexibility and endurance. 

1

25%

•

Operates an emergency vehicle in a safe and respectful manner in emergency mode (lights and sirens) and in non-emergency mode during all hours of the day and night, in all types of traffic and weather conditions. Works effectively as an individual and as a team leader on every patient care scene.

2

15%

•

Assesses nature and extent of illness or injury by obtaining relevant information from the patient, their family or caretaker(s), bystanders/citizens and from the surrounding environment. Performs advanced life support skills utilizing liberal standing order protocols to guide patient care in the prehospital setting. Lifts and carries equipment, stretchers and patients to facilitate response to, treatment and transport of patients. Completes documentation through patient care reporting systems, electronic and paper-based logs, and reporting software and databases. Maintains confidentiality and protects sensitive data at all times, in accordance with HIPAA laws, organizational and department policies and procedures.

3

20%

•

Performs patient care utilizing equipment and biomedical supplies such as Cardiac Monitor/Defibrillator, Peripheral Intravenous Catheters, Intraosseous Devices, Pulse Oximeters, Waveform Capnometers, Sphygmomanometers, Multiple Spinal and Extremity Immobilization Devices, Multiple Airway Devices, Respirators, CPAP units, Medications, assorted bandages, and other Biomedical Equipment. Utilizes additional technology for other job related tasks, such as in-vehicle navigation, laptop computers, computer aided dispatch, pagers, radios (handheld and truck mounted), cell phones, online education portals, high-fidelity simulators, etc.   

4

10%

•

Maintains cleanliness of equipment, vehicles and facilities. Inventories and restocks equipment and vehicles.  Decontaminates and disinfects equipment and vehicles after every patient encounter.

5

10%

•

Communicates in a respectful manner during routine to significantly stressful situations and everything in-between through written, oral and/or visual means, with all individuals and groups of individuals, regardless of their age, gender, educational level, socioeconomic status, etc.

6

10%

•

Works while wearing personal protective equipment such as medical exam gloves, eye protection, etc. on all requests for service.  Wears additional personal protective equipment such as fire resistant turnout gear, helmets, work gloves, chemical protective clothing and respiratory protection in specific environments and situations when needed.

7

5%

•

Performs and participates actively in Continuing Medical Education, Clinical Continuous Quality Improvement, and other departmental programs, goals and objectives as directed by the supervisory staff or the Director.

8

5%

Position(s) may perform other duties in addition to the above as assigned by management.

•

Participates in various community outreach and public education events.

•

Participates in various department specific committees regarding decisions on protocols, equipment, vehicles, uniforms, etc.

•

Precepts students from paramedic programs locally and nationwide on their clinical rotations.

*IMPORTANT* In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager or designee, participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected. Employee may be required to fill a temporary assignment in a role different from standard duties, work hours and/or work location in preparation for, during and after the emergency. Employee may also be required to participate in relevant exercises and regular preparedness training.

Career Level Dimensions

Career Level:

C3

Career Level Description:

Core Services Level 3

•

Works to deliver day-to-day objectives that directly impact the achievement of results for the Work Group.

•

Work consists of tasks that are typically not routine.

•

Works independently under limited supervision, applying discretion when required.

•

Responsible for recommending adjustments to processes or systems that improve the effectiveness of the Work Group.

•

May be required to apply discretion within broad operational boundaries and procedures.

•

Communicates within and outside Work Group to obtain information or explain practices and policies.

•

Responsible for providing, guidance, coaching, and training to lower-level support employees.

•

Requires broad knowledge of operational systems and practices typically gained through extensive experience, technical training, and/or advanced education.

Qualifications

•

No specific education required

•

No specific experience required

•

Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record

•

Certification as a North Carolina Emergency Medical Technician – Paramedic (EMTP) or eligibility for such certification

•

Equivalent education and experience are NOT accepted

•

Associate's Degree

Emergency Medical Services or related field

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Ability to maintain knowledge of Wake County EMS System treatment protocols and procedures, and Wake County EMS operating guidelines and the ability to maintain familiarity with emergency and prehospital medical care by constantly keeping up to date with mandatory paid continuing education required to maintain certification.

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Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities, which includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.

•

Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

•

Ability to talk to others to convey information effectively.

•

Ability to actively look for ways to help people.

•

Ability to adjust actions in relation to others' actions.

•

Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with tact and discretion.

•

Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

An individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily to perform this job successfully. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Competencies

Adaptability & Flexibility

Changes behavioral style or method of approach when necessary to achieve a goal; adjusts style as appropriate to the needs of the situation. Responds to change with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn new ways to accomplish work activities and objectives.

Reliability

Demonstrates a high level of dependability in all aspects of the job.

Professionalism

Thinks carefully about the likely effects on others of one's words, actions, appearance, and mode of behavior. Selects the words or actions most likely to have the desired effect on the individual or group in question. Maintains calmness in stressful or adverse situations. Diplomatically handles challenging or tense interpersonal situations.

Interpersonal Skills

Treats others with courtesy, sensitivity, and respect.  Considers and responds appropriately to the needs and feelings of different people in different situations.  Perceives, assesses, and positively influences one's own and other individuals’ emotions.

Problem Solving

Builds a logical approach to address problems or opportunities or manage the situation at hand by drawing on one's knowledge and experience base, and calling on other references and resources as necessary.

Good Judgment

Makes decisions authoritatively and wisely, after adequately contemplating various available courses of action.

Integrity

Act with honesty, transparency and respect in our interactions with co-workers and those we serve. Adhere, without exception, to laws, policies, procedures and professional standards.

Accountability

Establish high-quality standards for work. Add value. Measure results and hold self and others accountable for making progress toward desired outcomes. Take a logical and data-driven approach to decision-making.

Diversity

Believe that different backgrounds and experiences strengthen the organization and produce better results. Value inclusion across race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience, and strive to reflect in our workforce the diversity of our community.

Collaboration

Foster a work culture in which different ideas and opinions are encouraged and expected. Listen carefully and speak thoughtfully. Work together toward shared goals with mutual respect and cooperation.

Continuous Improvement

Continuously improve work processes and products. Provide a safe environment to be innovative and creative and try new things. When things don't go as planned, use it as an opportunity to learn, regroup and begin again. Provide time and resources for individuals to grow and develop both personally and professionally.

Wellness

Take proactive steps to be physically fit and healthy, emotionally strong, financially secure and socially fulfilled, while inspiring and empowering others to do the same.

Service Orientation

Commit to making a difference within the community. Actively engage in and enjoy our work. Deliver services that exceed expectations, with courtesy, politeness and sensitivity to the experiences, concerns and feelings of all co-workers and customers.

ADA Checklist

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Standard ADA Selection:

All Others

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Lifting/Carrying 0-10 pounds

X

Lifting/Carrying 10-20 pounds

X

Lifting/Carrying 20-50 pounds

X

Lifting/Carrying 50-100 pounds

X

Pushing

X

Pulling

X

Climbing

X

Balancing

X

Stooping

X

Kneeling

X

Crouching

X

Crawling

X

Reaching

X

Handling

X

Grasping

X

Fingering

X

Feeling

X

Talking

X

Hearing

X

Visual Perception

X

Repetitive Motions

X

Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination

X

Memorization/Concentration

X

Learning/Knowledge Retention

X

Preparing/Analyzing Numerical Figures

X

Use of Interfaced Commmunication Devices (Phone, Computer, Radio etc.)

X

Analyzing/Examining/Testing Data

X

Emotional/Behavioral Self-Regulation

X

Interacting with Others

X

High Stress Situations

X

Dangerous Situations

X

Emergency Situations

X

Incarcerated Individuals

X

Combative Individuals

X

Animals

X

Comprehension

X

Organization

X

Decision Making

X

Comprehension

Understand and apply non-routine verbal and/or written instructions

Organization

Organize actions to complete sequential and/or routine tasks

Decision Making

Make decisions that have significant impact on a department's credibility, operations and/or services

Communication

Communicate and explain a variety of information

Extreme cold

X

Extreme heat

X

Humid

X

Wet

X

Noise

X

Hazards

X

Temperature Change

X

Atmospheric Conditions

X

Vibration

X

Computers/Monitors

X

Extreme Darkness

X

Extreme Brightness

X

Radiation

X

Chemicals/Hazardous Waste

X

Gases/Gas Leaks

X

Electrical Hazards

X

Acidid or Harsh Substances

X

Infectious Bacteria/Viruses

X

Infectious Diseases

X

Blood-Borne Pathogens

X

Fumes/Airborne Particles

X

Allergens (variety)

X

Confined Spaces

X

High or Precarious Places

X

Ladders/Step Stools

X

Moving Mechanical Parts

X

Operating Vehicle

X

Operating Light Equipment

X

Operating Heavy Equipment

X