As every paramedic quickly learns, paramedic training doesn’t end with graduation from paramedic school. The realities of high stakes emergencies demand more attention, thought, and flexibility than the theoretical challenges presented in school. But on-the-job experience is not enough. Continuing education allows you to master new skills, remain abreast of current research, and practice skills you use only infrequently at work.
Paramedic training CEU requirements vary from state to state. Nationally Registered Paramedics must complete 60 hours of continuing education every two years. Most state requirements are similar, but you’ll need to check with your state licensing board to ensure the CEU program you choose meets your state’s requirements.
Here are our picks for the five best paramedic training courses.
The Journal of Emergency Medical Services has long published research for paramedics and EMTs. Now, JEMS has teamed up with Medic-CE to offer a comprehensive range of CEU courses. Their catalog boasts a number of self-paced courses, so you don’t have to worry about fitting classroom time into an already-packed schedule. The Airway Management self-Paced course is especially excellent, offering details on assessment, airway protection, capnography, intubation, and more.
EMS1 is a one-stop-shop for all things emergency management-related. EMS1 Academy offers individual and department subscriptions, boasting a total of 225 full-length courses and 275 hours of CEU credit. That’s enough to meet every state’s requirements, as well as the national requirement. Check out the Medic Monthly Series, which features more than 80 video-based updates on cutting-edge research and techniques.
Wild Iris offers a wide range of courses for both paramedics and EMTs, and their programs are accepted by most states. Courses are affordable and self-paced. In today’s world of increased mental health awareness, we recommend the Mental Health Crises course. Wild Iris also offers several courses in the Obstetrics, Infants, and Children category, which provide an excellent overview of common emergencies among pregnant women, children, and infants.
BoundTree University prides itself on making paramedic education accessible to all, including paramedics with small budgets. It offers a wide range of completely free online courses accredited by EMS1 Academy. Create a free account to access the online classroom. Check out Basic Airway Mastery, Safe Transport of the Pediatric Patient, or Pediatric Shortness of Breath.
CE Solutions offers a subscription-based service for individuals and agencies. Sign up for unlimited CEU access for one year or two years. To get credit, you simply read through the course and then take a quiz at the end. If you pass, you’ll receive a certificate for the course. CE Solutions offers a wide range of airway management courses, from beginner to advanced levels. Their Pediatric Airway Emergency course is especially excellent. If your agency routinely works with children, consider taking it.
Choosing Courses
It’s great to take a course because it sounds interesting or supports ongoing skill mastery. But most paramedics pursue continuing education to meet state or national requirements. So before you sign up for any course, make sure you can answer the following questions:
- Is this course accepted in my state?
- How many credit hours will I get for this course?
- Do I need a specific type of credit hours, and will this course fulfill that requirement?
Equally important is ensuring you get real value from the course(s) you choose. The right course for you is one that:
- Is based on current research.
- Addresses any new or shifting standards.
- Fills any skill gaps you might have.
- Addresses the needs of the specific population you serve.
The right equipment is a key component of excellent service to your patients. SSCOR is proud to offer quality airway management supplies that are portable, effective, and safe. For help choosing the right portable emergency suction device for your needs, download our free guide, The Ultimate Guide to Purchasing a Portable Emergency Suction Device.
