Mar 28, 2024  
PUBLISHED 2019-2020 Credit Catalog 
    
PUBLISHED 2019-2020 Credit Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Advanced Care Paramedic


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs & Categories by Degree Type

Program Description


 

The SAIT Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP) program is a five-semester, full-time program offered to those who wish to extend their professional training and credentials to work as paramedics. In the ACP program, students become extensively familiar with human anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology, as well as wide variety of pharmacological and other therapies.

The program commences each year in the fall and consists of three semesters in the first year and two semesters in the second year. Students spend their fall, winter and spring semesters of the first year acquiring a strong theoretical framework in areas such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, treatments for various medical and traumatic emergencies, adult advanced life support, neonatal resuscitation protocol and assessment skills. Opportunities to practice these skills and integrate theory into practice are provided through simulation laboratory classes.

Students return to SAIT in the fall of year 2 where they begin their clinical and ambulance practica placements. In the winter semester of year two students also learn about precepting and professional practice as well as prepare for registration with the Alberta College of Paramedics as an ACP.

Note: Students may have to travel anywhere in Alberta to complete their practica based on practicum spot availability.

Program Overview


Your Career


Graduates will be prepared for positions in the emergency medical services field, including ambulance services, the oil and gas industry and various international opportunities.

  • Graduates of the Advanced Care Paramedic program have a 100% employment rate

Student Success


  • Students with higher secondary or post-secondary marks usually experience greater success in SAIT’s programs.
     
  • Students who experience success in this program have effective communications skills in English.
  • Health care practitioners are detail-oriented in the care they provide and enjoy working in a team environment.
  • Students with post-secondary degrees or experience usually experience greater success in SAIT’s programs.
  • Due to the physical nature of the work required in emergency medical services, the Advanced Care Paramedic Paramedic program has a strong focus on physical fitness and wellness.
  • Students are strongly encouraged to refer to the Paramedicine National Competency Profile and Alberta Health Service’s F.A.R.E. Paramedic requirements to ensure that they are able to successfully demonstrate the functional ability required to achieve all the competency-based objectives and bona fide occupational requirements for the program and profession. Some examples include:
     

  • Lift a stretcher with a 95.5 kg (210 lbs)  patient with a partner from a lower level to the load position and back down
  • Lift and carry a long spine board with 95.5 kg (210 lbs) and ascend and descend 10 stairs with a partner
  • Push a stair chair 10 m with 95.5 kg (210 lbs) and ascend and descend 20 stairs with a partner
  • Lift a bilateral side carry of 9 kg (20 lbs) of weight in each hand
  • Front carry 18 kg (40 lbs)
  • Repetitively kneel, crouch, bend, reach, carry, push and pull
  • Perform CPR for 2 min

Credentials


After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT Advanced Care Paramedic diploma. Other certificates received are Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), International Trauma Life Support (ITLS) Advanced and Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP). All graduates are eligible to register with Alberta College of Paramedics and work in Alberta as an advanced care paramedic.

Accreditation


The Advanced Care Paramedic program delivered by SAIT is accredited by Accreditation Canada at the Advanced Care Paramedic level and meets the Alberta College of Paramedics core competency requirements.

Progression


Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Admission Requirements


  • Completion of a Primary Care Paramedic or an Emergency Medical Technician certificate program, or equivalent. Proof of completion must be submitted by August 1.
  • All applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Program Outline


Total Credits 60


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs & Categories by Degree Type