My first role as a paramedic

I graduated from ARU a few months ago and am currently employed by private medical companies in the London area working as a Paramedic. These bank shifts enable me to maintain my skillset, keep up-to-date with clinical practice and engaged in patient care whilst I eagerly wait my start date with the London Ambulance Service NHS Trust.

Covering events as a paramedic

Of particular interest to me is event medical cover and venue provisions such as the O2 arena, Wembley Stadium and music festivals. Not only do these provide excellent working atmospheres but they can present an array of challenging patients and a dynamic workload. The unpredictability of what each shift may throw at you is exciting and I would recommend this line of medicine to those interested in specialist pre-hospital care.

Working without a mentor

Formally working as a Paramedic carries the responsibility of a registered professional. Now I do not have a mentor overseeing my practice it is down to my judgement to coordinate the care of patients delivered by medical teams. This aspect may seem daunting however it can be satisfying when things go to plan! It’s extremely important to remember asking for help or a second opinion from a senior clinician is not a sign of weakness, and instead promotes safer clinical decision-making and teamwork.

What comes after being a newly qualified Paramedic

In three years’ time I’d like to see myself embarking on a Masters degree after having successfully completed my newly qualified Paramedic (NQP) phase. In particular I am hoping to study an MSc in Trauma Sciences (Military and Humanitarian) at the Queen Mary’s University London in association with London’s Air Ambulance. Following suit, I will continue to prepare myself for applying to the London Ambulance Services’ Tactical Response Unit (TRU) and remain in the capital for a number of years!

What I got from studying Paramedic Science at ARU

Studying at ARU enabled me to gain the best experience possible from one-on-one tutoring through to high fidelity simulations. I found most of what was tested on us in the skills labs was very similar to reality, and I felt confident in my practice as a result. I especially enjoyed constructing my dissertation at the end of my degree and was proud to receive a first class for it! After completion of the degree, the module lead even offered me direction in how to publish my dissertation as an article in a journal. This shows the professionalism and willingness of the ARU Paramedic staff when it comes to helping students achieve their best. I am proud to say my dissertation will be published in the Journal of High Threat and Austere Medicine and is free to all for reading online!

If I had to describe my experience at ARU in three words I would say: Exciting, adventurous and emotional!

Alex studied Paramedic Science at ARU. You can find out more about this and other degree courses at one of our Open Days.