Paramedic

Paramedic

Paramedics assess injuries and illnesses and provide emergency medical care. They may use medical equipment and give medication or life support.

Also known as

Intensive care paramedic, ambulance paramedic, flight paramedic

AUT programmes

Work environment

  • Usually work long shifts, including nights and weekends
  • Usually work in ambulances, air ambulances and helipcopters, and may travel locally and nationally
  • May work in all weather conditions
  • May do emotionally demanding work
  • Need to work well under pressure, communicate well and be safety conscious

Typical tasks

  • Monitor patient progress or responses to treatments
  • Analyse patient data to determine patient needs or treatment goals
  • Maintain medical or professional knowledge
  • Operate diagnostic or therapeutic medical instruments or equipment
  • Record patient medical histories
  • Inform medical professionals regarding patient conditions and care
  • Collaborate with health care professionals to plan or provide treatment
  • Administer non-intravenous medications
  • Administer intravenous medications
  • Treat medical emergencies

Salary information

$62K-$127K
LowerMost commonUpper
$62K$81K-$114K$127K

Tips from AUT graduates

Sofie Heaphy
Critical Care Paramedic, Ornge, Ontario, Canada
Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science
Bachelor of Health Science
“You’re exposed to parts of life and society that most people never see, and it can be challenging. That’s why it’s important to know your reason for doing the job. Make sure you have strong support networks with friends and family, and have a life outside of work. It’s a very rewarding career, but like any job, you need to look after yourself along the way.”

Professional registration

Paramedic Council

info@paramediccouncil.org.nz

04 381 9080

https://www.paramediccouncil.org.nz/

Outlook

What employers and industry want in graduates

Further study options