Do you know what kind of training is required to become a paramedic to the elite athletes that compete at the Winter Olympic Games? At any Olympic Games there would be hundreds of experienced paramedics employed but the host country or the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This would ensure the safest possible Games experience and adequate medical and emergency staff available to take care of both athletes and spectators alike.
The training and experience required to become a paramedic that treats the worlds elite athletes would need to be the highest in the field. They would most likely need at least 5 years experience as a fully trained and practicing advanced care paramedic or intensive care paramedic. There would also need to be a number of paramedics trained in search and rescue techniques, such as helicopter and aerodynamic retrieval.
To become a paramedic with these kinds of skills you would need to first complete a Bachelor of Paramedical Science (Specialisation) or equivalent. You would also need extensive field experience to prove your ability to respond to high level injuries and emergencies. There is nothing more valuable than a good track record to prove your high skills.
Aside from the many bruised egos, common injuries amongst elite athletes at the Winter Olympics include concussion, joint injuries, muscle and ligament tears and broken bones. It would be crucial for paramedics to have extensive experience in treating these kinds of injuries to qualify to become a paramedic for the athletes.
There are also a number of sports where a small mistake can result in a very serious injury. These include Alpine skiing, Moguls and freestyle skiing/snowboarding, Luge events and many more. In these particular sports it is highly likely that Intensive Care Paramedics are on duty. To become a paramedic with intensive care qualifications, you need to complete an additional graduate degree in paramedical science, as well as be proficient in some of the most advanced life support and clinical procedures.
These intensive care paramedics would also need access to the advanced paramedic vehicles, such as snowmobiles and in some cases helicopters that can the transport the injured safely and quickly to the appropriate medical facility for further treatment.
These are just some of the things that you would need to consider should you want to become a paramedic at the Winter Olympic Games. To learn more about what it takes to become a paramedic in Australia call the Australian Paramedical College on 1300 377 741. We have nationally and internationally recognised paramedic courses that can put you in the picture for an exciting and rewarding paramedic career.