Advanced Care Paramedic

Location(s): Regina

Advanced Care Paramedic is a diploma program. It is accredited by the Canadian Medical Association and replaces the program formerly known as the Emergency Medical Technician - Paramedic Program. It provides knowledge and skill development in becoming an integral part of the health care team working in the field of prehospital emergency care.

You will:

receive advanced training in recognizing and managing a variety of medical and trauma emergencies

study body system assessments, anatomy and physiology, and microbiology

focus on the neonatal, pediatric and geriatric patient

learn how to manage the physical and mental challeges of the profession

Upon successfully completing the theory components of the program, you must participate in a field (in ambulance) practicum and a clinical (in hospital) practicum.

National certifications include Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), International Trauma Life Support (ITLS), Advanced and Pediatric ITLS.

Note - Entry Level Training

SIAST's entry-level training program was formerly called the Emergency Medical Technician Program. It is now called the Primary Care Paramedic Program.

Length: 59 weeks

Year 1 - 43 weeks; Year 2 - 16 weeks

Career Opportunities

Graduates may find employment in prehospital care settings such as ambulance operations, air ambulance services, fire services (in conjunction with fire training), industrial sites, mining sites, military departments or health care clinics.

For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the campus nearest you.

Program Details

Start Date(s): August

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Admission Requirements

Primary Care Paramedic certification from an accredited program or equivalent

Minimum one year work related experience as a PCP or equivalent practitioner level (you must provide verification of your work experience)

International Trauma Life Support (ITLS) Provider certificate

CPR Health Care Provider 'C' AED or equivalent

English Language Requirement

Note

Accepted applicants may be required to provide evidence of a criminal records check prior to entering the practicum component of the program. At the discretion of the practicum agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the criminal records check. The cost of the criminal records check is your responsibility.

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. You must review the details and program specific documentation concerning Special Admission.

The majority of SIAST programs have established ACCUPLACER^© cut scores and Post-Secondary Success Requirements. Depending on the program, additional specific admission requirements may still need to be met.

ACCUPLACER ^©

ACCUPLACER^© Cut Scores
for this program

See Primary Care Paramedic

Post-Secondary Success

Post-Secondary Success Requirements
for this program

See Primary Care Paramedic

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

Tuition and Fees

For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Learning Method(s)

SIAST offers a variety of learning methods for course delivery. The following learning methods are available for some of the courses in this program.

The classroom portion of the program is 700 hours. You will spend a minimum of 1016 hours in a clinical practicum (in hospital) and a field practicum (in ambulance) with a qualified preceptor.

Work Experience

Please refer to the course descriptions for course specific learning methods.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Availability

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

Frequently asked questions regarding PLAR for this program are answered in the Fact Sheet. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.

Transfer Credit and Future Study Options

SIAST may recognize formal learning from other educational institutions.

More about Transfer Credit

Semester 1
expand/contract all

ANAT 167 Anatomy and Physiology

You will study the human body and how it functions to maintain homeostasis. Your studies will focus on the physiological aspects of the cell, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

5.0 Credit Units
70.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

EMER 158 Advanced Care Preparation

Your studies will focus on professionalism, leadership and Saskatchewan scope of practice protocols. The course content includes basic life support therapies, medication administration and written documentation practices.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

EMER 159 Patient Management and Integration

You will integrate and apply theory and skills sets in managing simulated patients within the prehospital and health facility environments. The course content includes management strategies congruent with scope of practice.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
ANAT 167 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 158 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 175 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 176 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 177 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 178 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and FTNS 162 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and LEAD 160 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and MICR 160 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and PHAR 161 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and PHAR 162 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and PHAR 168 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)

EMER 175 Medical Emergencies

You will study the recognition and advanced management of common adult medical emergencies. Your studies will emphasize seizures, diabetes and environmental conditions.

2.0 Credit Units
24.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
ANAT 167 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)

EMER 176 Advanced Respiratory Care

You will study advanced diagnostics and therapies for managing respiratory illness and disease. Your studies will focus on endotracheal intubation, use of mechanical ventilators, surgical airway procedures and respiratory medications.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
ANAT 167 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 177 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and PHAR 161 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)

EMER 177 Physical Assessment

You will perform physical assessments of body systems (including cardiac, respiratory and neurological systems). Your studies will also include the fundamentals of history taking and the interview process.

1.0 Credit Units
20.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

EMER 178 Advanced Cardiac Care

You will study advanced diagnostics and therapies for managing cardiac illness and disease. Your studies will focus on 12 lead cardiac monitoring, electrical therapy, and cardiac medications. The course content includes Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification.

3.0 Credit Units
46.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
ANAT 167 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 158 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 177 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and PHAR 161 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)

FTNS 162 Fitness and Lifestyle

You will participate in fitness and activity classes that support a healthy lifestyle and positive team attitude. You will demonstrate adequate fitness. Your studies will focus on promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

3.0 Credit Units
45.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

LEAD 160 Professionalism, Leadership and Communication

You will study professional and leadership strategies that will enhance your practice as an EMS professional. Your studies will focus on computer technology, research strategies and principles, and strategic human resource management.

2.0 Credit Units
24.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

MICR 160 Microbiology

You will study the various types of microorganisms, their characteristics and their role in the spread of infection.

You will develop an understanding of health care epidemiology and the various agents used to control microbial growth. You will acquire knowledge of the major viral, bacterial and fungal diseases as they specifically relate to the emergency health care field.

1.0 Credit Units
15.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
ANAT 167 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)

PHAR 161 Prehospital Medications

You will study essential medications that meet Saskatchewan scope of practice and NOCP requirements. Your studies will focus on medication classifications, dosages, contraindications and side effects.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

PHAR 162 Fluid Therapy

You will study the principles and practice of administering fluids and medications. Your studies will focus on intravenous and intraosseous therapy.

1.0 Credit Units
18.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

PHAR 168 Medication Administration

You will study theory and skills that are essential for administering medications. Your studies will focus on endotracheal, intravenous, intraosseous and intramuscular medication administration.

1.0 Credit Units
18.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
PHAR 162 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)

Semester 2

EMER 180 Field Practicum

You will participate in a supervised pre-hospital field experience. An advanced care paramedic preceptor will evaluate theory and skill sets studied in Semester 1. You will function under the scope of practice as defined by the Saskatchewan Health Emergency Treatment Protocols.

19.0 Credit Units
288.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Work Experience -Individual, Work Experience - Group

Prerequisites:
ANAT 167 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 158 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 159 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 175 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 176 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 177 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 178 Minimum Grade of 60 and FTNS 162 Minimum Grade of 60 and LEAD 160 Minimum Grade of 60 and MICR 160 Minimum Grade of 60 and PHAR 161 Minimum Grade of 60 and PHAR 162 Minimum Grade of 60 and PHAR 168 Minimum Grade of 60

EMER 181 Clinical Practicum

You will participate in a supervised clinical experience in specialized areas of a health care facility. Health care professionals will evaluate your assessment, management and communication skills. You will function according to health care facility policy and advanced care paramedic scope of practice. Clinical areas include emergency department, operating room and coronary care.

13.0 Credit Units
196.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Work Experience -Individual, Work Experience - Group

Semester 3

ANAT 267 Anatomy and Physiology

Building on ANAT 167 (Anatomy and Physiology), you will continue the study of the human body. Your studies will focus on the physiological aspects of the skeletal, muscular, urinary, digestive and reproductive systems.

4.0 Credit Units
60.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
ANAT 167 Minimum Grade of 60

EMER 262 Medical Emergencies

You will study the recognition and advanced management of common adult medical emergencies. Your studies will focus on toxicology, gastrointestinal disorders and pregnancy. The course content includes Neonatal Resuscitation (NRP) certification.

3.0 Credit Units
45.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
ANAT 267 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 175 Minimum Grade of 60

EMER 270 Advanced Trauma Management

You will study the recognition and advanced management of trauma emergencies. Your studies will focus on the integration of fluid therapy, advanced airway and pain management. You will receive BTLS Advanced certification.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
ANAT 167 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 176 Minimum Grade of 60 and PHAR 162 Minimum Grade of 60 and PHAR 267 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)

EMER 279 Special Population Groups

Your studies will prepare you to recognize and manage the needs of unique patient groups. Your studies will focus on the geriatric, psychiatric, pediatric and the terminally ill patient. The course content includes Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification.

3.0 Credit Units
40.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
EMER 175 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 176 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 177 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 178 Minimum Grade of 60 and PHAR 161 Minimum Grade of 60 and PHAR 162 Minimum Grade of 60 and PHAR 168 Minimum Grade of 60

EMER 280 Specialized Therapeutics

You will study enhanced therapies and skills that are essential for the changing role of the advanced care paramedic. Your studies will focus on suturing, sterile fields and managing common drainage systems (including urinary catheterisation and nasogastric intubation).

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
ANAT 267 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and MICR 160 Minimum Grade of 60

EMER 281 Patient Management and Integration

You will integrate and apply theory and skills sets in the management of simulated patients within the prehospital and health facility environments. The course content includes management strategies congruent with scope of practice.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
ANAT 267 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 262 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 270 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 279 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and EMER 280 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and FTNS 163 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and PHAR 267 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)

FTNS 163 Fitness and Lifestyle

The course builds upon the concepts of fitness and lifestyle presented in FTNS 162 (Fitness and Lifestyle). You will develop a personal nutrition plan and apply fitness principles to achieve the level of fitness required for paramedics. You will have the opportunity to work as a team to plan class activities and events.

2.0 Credit Units
35.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
FTNS 162 Minimum Grade of 60

PHAR 267 Prehospital Medications

You will study essential medications that meet Saskatchewan scope of practice and National Occupational Competency Profile requirements. Your studies will focus on medication classifications, dosages, contraindications and side effects.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

Prerequisites:
PHAR 161 Minimum Grade of 60

Semester 4

EMER 274 Field Practicum

You will participate in a supervised prehospital field experience. An advanced care paramedic preceptor will evaluate theory and skill sets studied in Semester 3. You will function under the scope of practice as defined by the Saskatchewan Health Emergency Treatment Protocols. Leadership and delegation ability is expected throughout this practicum.

22.0 Credit Units
336.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Work Experience -Individual

Prerequisites:
ANAT 267 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 180 Minimum Grade of P and EMER 181 Minimum Grade of P and EMER 262 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 270 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 279 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 280 Minimum Grade of 60 and EMER 281 Minimum Grade of 60 and FTNS 163 Minimum Grade of 60 and PHAR 267 Minimum Grade of 60

EMER 275 Clinical Practicum

You will participate in a supervised clinical experience in specialized areas of a health care facility. Health care professionals will evaluate your assessment, management and communication skills. You will function according to health care facility policy and advanced care paramedic scope of practice. Clinical areas include emergency department, operating room and labour and delivery.

13.0 Credit Units
196.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Work Experience -Individual, Work Experience - Group

You must successfully complete EMER 158 (Advanced Care Preparation) before being allowed to continue on in the program.

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