Paramedic Program Information and 2021 Cohort Application
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Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program Paramedic Program Information and 2021 Cohort Application The goal of the Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program is to prepare competent entry level EMT-Paramedics in the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective EMS learning domains. The Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP). Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs 25400 U.S. Highway 19 North, Suite 158 Clearwater, FL 33763 www.caahep.org Committee on Accreditation for the EMS Professions 8301 Lakeview Parkway, Suite 111-312 Rowlett TX 75088 www.coaemsp.org
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program Program Admission Information Thank you for your interest in the Paramedic Program at Laramie County Community College (LCCC). Our goal is to provide you with the education that will prepare you to become a fully competent entry level Paramedic and to continue a rewarding career in EMS. We hope that you will find our fast-paced and challenging program to your liking. Prerequisite for entry into the program is an EMT-B State Certification or National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification and employment or experience as an EMT-B in the EMS field for at least one year. Our Paramedic program begins in January and continues throughout the year, with a planned graduation in December of the same year. After the successful completion of our program, students will be eligible to sit for the NREMT Psychomotor Exam. Subsequently, successful passing of the NREMT Psychomotor Exam, will allow students to be eligible to sit for the NREMT Cognitive Exam. Conditional Acceptance: Admission to the paramedic program is conditional based on: 1. Successful admission to LCCC 2. Selection criteria listed below based on highest point value: Item Points Currently licensed in Wyoming as an EMT 5 Current NREMT-B certification 20 Current licensure at AEMT level or higher 5 At least 3-years of experience in EMS or a related field 10 At least 1-year of experience in EMS or healthcare 5 Applied to and accepted at LCCC 5 Essay Questions 100 Basic EMT Entrance Exam 100 Oral Interview Panel 390 Application Dates: The application process opens October 1st and will close October 31st. No late applications will be accepted unless authorization is given by the Program Director. Applicants that submit a completed application by October 31st, will be contacted to schedule a time to complete their multiple- choice entrance exam and oral interview, during the weeks of November 9th - 13th and November 16th - 20th. The entrance exam will take approximately one to two hours to complete. The oral interview panel will take approximately 60-90 minutes. Note: The application can be completed in writing by printing and return by mailing to the address listed on the application. The application can also be completed and submitted electronically. Either way is acceptable but must be completed and returned by October 31st. It is the applicant’s responsibility to complete all required application documents and to provide all of the required results/information within the application by the application deadline. Failure to provide all required documentation and information by the application deadline will result in the applicant being ineligible for consideration to the paramedic program. LCCC Paramedic Program Information Page 2 of 11
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program Conditional Acceptance: Notification to applicants will be during the week of November 30th of either conditional acceptance or non-acceptance to the paramedic program. After Conditional Acceptance: Upon notification of conditional acceptance, the applicant will be sent a program packet with instructions and information regarding the following additional requirements which must be submitted by the dates stipulated in the acceptance letter and packet: 1. Returned signed acceptance letter. 2. A completed physical examination form including verification of current vaccinations and/or titers for Hepatitis B, Rubella, Rubeola, Mumps, PPD, Diphtheria-Tetanus and Varicella. 3. A copy of current certification from the American Heart Association of Basic Life Support (BLS). CPR certification must be valid for the duration of the program. 4. Students are advised that influenza vaccinations are also a requirement each Fall semester as mandated by various clinical sites. 5. Acceptable Drug Screening and Criminal Background Checks. All allied health students are required to submit a pre-clinical urine drug screen according to the policy of the Allied Health Programs at LCCC. The drug screen is completed at the student’s expense and must be paid for at the time of application via the CastleBranch (or another LCCC contracted vendor) website. 6. Applicants must also be eligible for licensure by the State of Wyoming Office of EMS. This includes, but not limited to finger printing and additional background checks at the student’s expense. See EMS Rules and Regulations for “Wyoming Emergency Medical Services Act of 1977” W.S. 33-36-101, at https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/ems/rules-and-scope-of-practice/ems-rules-and-regulations/ In addition to drug screening, for the safety of patients and health care workers, allied health students must also undergo a background check performed by CastleBranch or similar vendor at the student’s expense. At their discretion, clinical sites may also require a drug screening and/or a criminal background check prior to allowing students into the clinical setting. (If required, any associated fees will be the responsibility of the student.) In addition, LCCC and the clinical sites may require random drug testing and/or drug testing for reasonable cause. Generally, the urine drug test screens for alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, or drugs that impair judgment while in the clinical setting. Testing positive on the screening, or evidence of tampering with a specimen, will disqualify a student from participation from the clinical assignment. LCCC Paramedic Program Information Page 3 of 11
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program A Student’/applicant’s acceptance into the paramedic program at LCCC will remain conditional and will not be final until both of the following have been completed: 1. LCCC has received completed background check information from the reporting agencies, and the background checks are clear of disqualifying offenses. 2. Verification of eligibility for licensure by the State of Wyoming Office of EMS has been received. For more information, please see the complete Health Sciences and Wellness Division Policies for Allied Health Students posted on the Division website. Certain criminal activities, as evidenced by a criminal background check may also disqualify a student from clinical participation. Students/applicants are advised that the inability to gain clinical education experiences can result in the inability to meet program objectives and outcomes. These circumstances may prevent final acceptance into and/or progression through the program, and ultimately result in dismissal from the program. In keeping with the program’s due process policies, if a student/applicant disagrees with the accuracy of the information obtained, s/he may request a confirmatory test and/or a review of the accuracy of the background information within seven (7) working days. All requests must be made in writing to the Dean, Health Science and Wellness, and must include relevant information and/or extenuating circumstances supporting the request. A designated committee will review the results and the request, and will be responsible for making the final decision regarding the student’s/applicant’s request. The student/ applicant will be notified in writing of the committee’s decision within seven (7) working days. LCCC Non-Discrimination Statement: Laramie County Community College is committed to providing a safe and nondiscriminatory educational and employment environment. The college does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation or other status protected by law. Sexual harassment, including sexual violence, is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. The college does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its educational, extracurricular, athletic or other programs or in the context of employment. The College has a designated person to monitor compliance and to answer any questions regarding the college’s non-discrimination policies. Please contact: Title IX and ADA Coordinator, Suite 205, Clay Pathfinder Building, 1400 E. College Drive, Cheyenne, WY 82007, 307.778.1217, NDS@lccc.wy.edu. LCCC Paramedic Program Information Page 4 of 11
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program Selection of Students/Applicants: After all students/applicants have submitted a completed application, completed the entrance exam and completed oral interview, the applications will be reviewed by a selection committee composed of EMS faculty members and other EMS personnel. Other faculty and staff from Heath Science and Wellness may also be members of the selection committee. Selection will be based on the following criteria: 1. Initial application selection criteria listed above 2. References Should any students/applicants receive identical scores, the date of receipt of the applications will be considered in giving priority. Final selection will be made and the students/applicants will be notified. An alternate list will be made to fill any cancellations or vacancies. Our program does not use an annual waiting list; therefore, students/applicants not selected for admission into the paramedic program who wish to reapply must initiate the admission application process again the following year in order to be reconsidered. All students’/applicants’ applications not selected will be kept for one year after the deadline and will then be destroyed. Progression through the program: To progress in the paramedic program, the student must maintain a minimum of 80% in each course. The cumulative course grade for each course will be calculated based on total points. Course grades will be scored as follows: 90-100% = A 80-89% = B Less than 80% = F (Fail) ACLS and PALS certification exams must be passed in order to continue in the program. Failing either of these certification courses ACLS or PALS will constitute dismissal from the paramedic program. Each course’s total grade must be above 80% to continue in the program. If the students grade at the end of a course is less than 80%, the student will be dismissed from the program and receive a failing grade. Estimated Expenses: See current college catalog for general tuition expenses. Additional estimated expenses for the entire paramedic program are: Program fees (program travel and lodging) $1500 Books, online access fees $1100 Immunizations $150-$200 Background check and drug screening (LCCC) $199 Background check and finger printing (WY OEMS) $39 Uniforms and footwear $150 NREMT application fee (after program completion) $125 Other Expenses: The student is expected to provide transportation to class and to the assigned clinical education sites. Dress Code: Street clothes or uniforms may be worn to class, but the student is advised that the clinical sites’ dress code policies must be strictly adhered to. This includes limited jewelry/piercing (only two small matched earrings, one in each ear, are allowed) and all tattoos must be covered. Student Services: See college catalog for information. LCCC Paramedic Program Information Page 5 of 11
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program Transfer Students: Prerequisites and other courses in the curriculum are only eligible for transfer credit from regionally accredited institutions. Students seeking advanced standing will be evaluated on an individual basis and may be required to pass competency examinations monitored by the faculty to be accepted and to determine the level at which the student will enter the program. Official transcripts will be required. All transcripts will be evaluated by LCCC’s Registrar, Dean of Health Science and Wellness and the Program Director for transfer credit and/or advanced placement, as applicable. Transfer students and students reentering the program will reenter under the applicable college catalog requirements. Other courses may require testing to determine if they will be accepted. Student Employment: Due to the accelerated nature and demands of the full-time paramedic program, student employment is not encouraged. This personal decision should be based on individual performance in the classroom, clinical education sites and personal health. It is the desire of the EMS faculty that students be successful in the program and that essential learning is not compromised. Students will not be excused from class or clinical assignments for personal work schedules. Financial Aid: There are several options for aid at the college. An alternative to working during the program may be found by contacting the Financial Aid Office at the following link: https://www.lccc.wy.edu/services/financialaid/index.aspx LCCC Paramedic Program degree/diploma offerings: The LCCC paramedic program offers an Associate of Applied Science degree or a Credit Diploma. For information regarding the Associate of Applied Science degree, please visit: https://www.lccc.wy.edu/Documents/Programs/EMS_Paramedics/EMS-paramedic-program-map-2020-21.pdf For information regarding the Credit Diploma, please visit: https://www.lccc.wy.edu/Documents/Programs/EMS_Paramedics/EMS-paramedic-CD-program-map-2020- 21.pdf Questions: If you have any questions about the paramedic program or the admission process which are not answered here, please contact: Stephen Willoughby EMS Program Director Laramie County Community College TC 109 1400 E. College Drive Cheyenne, WY 82007 307-778-1149 (Office) swilloug@lccc.wy.edu LCCC Paramedic Program Information Page 6 of 11
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program Paramedic Functional Job Analysis / Technical Standards Paramedic Characteristics The Paramedic must be a confident leader who can accept the challenge and high degree of responsibility entailed in the position. The Paramedic must have excellent judgement and be able to prioritize decisions and act quickly in the best interest of the patient, must be self-disciplined, able to develop patient rapport, interview hostile patients, maintain safe distance, and recognize and utilize communication unique to diverse multicultural groups and ages within those groups. Must be able to function independently at optimum level in a non- structured environment that is constantly changing. Even though the Paramedic is generally part of a two-person team generally working with a lower skill and knowledge level Basic EMT, it is the Paramedic who is held responsible for safe and therapeutic administration of drugs including narcotics. Therefore, the Paramedic must not only be knowledge about medications but must be able to apply this knowledge in a practical sense. Knowledge and practical application of medications include thoroughly knowing and understanding the general properties of all types of drugs including analgesics, anesthetics, anti-anxiety drugs, sedatives and hypnotics, anti-convulsants, central nervous stimulants, psychotherapeutics which include antidepressants, and other anti-psychotics, anti-cholerginics, cholergenics, muscle relaxants, anti-dysrhythmics, anti-hypertensives, anticoagulants, diuretics, bronchodilators, opthalmics, pituitary drugs, gastro-intestinal drugs, hormones, antibiotics, antifungals, anti-inflammatories, serums, vaccines, anti-parasitics, and others. The Paramedic is personally responsible, legally, ethically, and morally for each drug administered, for using correct precautions and techniques, observing and documenting the effects of the drugs administered, keeping one’s own pharmacological knowledge base current as to changes and trends in administration and use, keeping abreast of all contraindications to administration of specific drugs to patients based on their constitutional make- up, and using drug reference literature. The responsibility of the Paramedic includes obtaining a comprehensive drug history from the patient that includes names of drugs, strength, daily usage and dosage. The Paramedic must take into consideration that many factors, in relation to the history given, can affect the type medication to be given. For example, some patients may be taking several medications prescribed by several different doctors and some may lose track of what they have or have not taken. Some may be using nonprescription/over the counter drugs. Awareness of drug reactions and the synergistic effects of drugs combined with other medicines and in some instances, food, is imperative. The Paramedic must also take into consideration the possible risks of medication administered to a pregnant mother and the fetus, keeping in mind that drugs may cross the placenta. The Paramedic must be cognizant of the impact of medications on pediatric patients based on size and weight, special concerns related to newborns, geriatric patients and the physiological effects of aging such as the way skin can tear in the geriatric population with relatively little to no pressure. There must be an awareness of the high abuse potential of controlled substances and the potential for addiction, therefore, the Paramedic must be thorough in report writing and able to justify why a particular narcotic was used and why a particular amount was given. The ability to measure and re-measure drip rates for controlled substances/medications is essential. Once medication is stopped or not used, the Paramedic must send back unused portions to proper inventory arena. LCCC Paramedic Program Information Page 7 of 11
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program The Paramedic must be able to apply basic principles of mathematics to the calculation of problems associated with medication dosages, perform conversion problems, differentiate temperature reading between centigrade and Fahrenheit scales, be able to use proper advanced life support equipment and supplies ( i.e. proper size of intravenous needles ) based on patient’s age and condition of veins, and be able to locate sites for obtaining blood samples and perform this task, administer medication intravenously, administer medications by gastric tube, administer oral medications, administer rectal medications, and comply with universal pre-cautions and body substance isolation, disposing of contaminated items and equipment properly. The Paramedic must be able to apply knowledge and skills to assist overdosed patients to overcome trauma through antidotes, and have knowledge of poisons and be able to administer treatment. The Paramedic must be knowledgeable as to the stages drugs/medications go through once they have entered the patient’s system and be cognizant that route of administration is critical in relation to patient’s needs and the effect that occurs. The Paramedic must also be capable of providing advanced life support emergency medical services to patients including conducting of and interpreting electrocardiograms (EKGs), electrical interventions to support the cardiac functions, performing advanced endotracheal intubations in airway management and relief of pneumothorax and administering of appropriate intravenous fluids and drugs under direction of off-site designated physician. The Paramedic is a person who must not only remain calm while working in difficult and stressful circumstances, but must be capable of staying focused while assuming the leadership role inherent in carrying out the functions of the position. Good judgement along with advanced knowledge and technical skills are essential in directing other team members to assist as needed. The Paramedic must be able to provide top quality care, concurrently handle high levels of stress, and be willing to take on the personal responsibility required of the position. This includes not only all legal ramifications for precise documentation, but also the responsibility for using the knowledge and skills acquired in real life-threatening emergency situations. The Paramedic must be able to deal with adverse and often dangerous situations which include responding to calls in districts known to have high crime and mortality rates. Self-confidence is critical, as is a desire to work with people, solid emotional stability, a tolerance for high stress, and the ability to meet the physical, intellectual, and cognitive requirements demanded by this position. Physical Demands Aptitudes required for work of this nature are good physical stamina, endurance, and body condition that would not be adversely affected by frequently having to walk, stand, lift, carry, and balance at times, in excess of 125 pounds. Motor coordination is necessary because over uneven terrain, the patient’s, the Paramedic’s, and other workers’ well-being must not be jeopardized. Comments The Paramedic provides the most extensive pre-hospital care and may work for fire departments, private ambulance services, police departments or hospitals. Response times for nature of work are dependent upon nature of call. For example, a Paramedic working for a private ambulance service that transports the elderly from nursing homes to routine medical appointments and check-ups may endure somewhat less stressful circumstances than the Paramedic who works primarily with 911 calls in districts known to have high crime rates. Thus, the particular stresses inherent in the role of the Paramedic can vary, depending on place and type of employment. LCCC Paramedic Program Information Page 8 of 11
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program However, in general, in the analyst’s opinion, the Paramedic must be flexible to meet the demands of the ever- changing emergency scene. When emergencies exist, the situation can be complex and care of the patient must be started immediately. In essence, the Paramedic in the EMS system uses advanced training and equipment to extend emergency physician services to the ambulance. The Paramedic must be able to make accurate independent judgements while following oral directives. The ability to perform duties in a timely manner is essential, as it could mean the difference between life and death for the patient. Use of the telephone or radio dispatch for coordination of prompt emergency services is required, as is a pager, depending on place of employment. Accurately discerning street names through map reading, and correctly distinguishing house numbers or business addresses are essential to task completion in the most expedient manner. Concisely and accurately describing orally to dispatcher and other concerned staff, one's impression of patient's condition, is critical as the Paramedic works in emergency conditions where there may not be time for deliberation. The Paramedic must also be able to accurately report orally and in writing, all relevant patient data. At times, reporting may require a detailed narrative on extenuating circumstances or conditions that go beyond what is required on a prescribed form. In some instances, the Paramedic must enter data on computer from a laptop in ambulance. Verbal skills and reasoning skills are used extensively. Source: USDOT 1998 National Standard Paramedic Curriculum Downloaded from: https://coaemsp.org/caahep-standards-and-guidelines LCCC Paramedic Program Information Page 9 of 11
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program Program Admission Process Step 1: Apply to Laramie County Community College • Apply for Admission (http://lccc.wy.edu/admissions/index.aspx) • Select “Begin the Application” link and create your account Step 2: Choose Degree-Seeking Students or Non-Degree-Seeking Student • If you are interested in earning an Associate of Applied Science degree o Choose Degree-Seeking Students tab and follow the 10 steps • If you are interested in earning a Credit Diploma o Choose Non-Degree-Seeking Student and follow the 5 steps LCCC Paramedic Program Information Page 10 of 11
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program Step 3: Complete Paramedic Program Application: Found at the end of this application. Step 4: Complete upper section of three (3) reference forms: Download the seperate Reference Form. Send the Form to three to references for completion. Completed references are to be mailed directly to the EMS program director at the address given below or emailed to the program director by selecting the button "Email form to LCCC EMS." At least one reference must be from a former or current supervisor and/or instructor. No relatives may be used as references. Please remember that these forms are to be returned to the LCCC program director either electronically via email or by mail by the individual completing the form to: Stephen Willoughby EMS Program Director Laramie County Community College TC 109 1400 E. College Drive Cheyenne, WY 82007 swilloug@lccc.wy.edu Step 5: Complete essay questions: Found at the end of this application. Create a new document and answer the 20 essay questions and include them with the application. Step 6: Sign and Date Application: Once completed sign and date your application. If submitting electronically, typing your name in the signature box will act as your written signature. Step 7: Complete application check list: Found at the end of this application. Step 8. Submit application: Application may be written and mailed to the program director at the address above. You may also scan your written application and send to the program director via the email address listed above. If completing the application electronically, you may simply click the submit button found in the electronic version of this application. LCCC Paramedic Program Information Page 11 of 11
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program 2021 Cohort Application Name: ____________________________________ ________________________ ________ Last First M.I. Preferred name: ____________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________________________ City: _____________________________________ State: __________________ Zip ___________ Phone number: (____)_______________________ Cell phone: __(____)______________________ (Area code) (Area code) Preferred phone number to contact: _(____)_________________________________ (Area Code) Email address: ______________________________________________________________ (Please use a personal email other than a LCCC email) References: 1.___________________________________ _______________________________ Name Relation to applicant 2.___________________________________ _______________________________ Name Relation to applicant 3.___________________________________ _______________________________ Name Relation to applicant Training/Certification: Current level of EMT: Date of current EMS level course completion: _____/________ MM YYYY Are you currently certified in Wyoming ? If Yes State #__________________ NREMT # if applicable: _________________________________ NREMT Expiration _____/_____/________ MM DD YYYY Note: Completed application is due by October 31st. No late applications will be accepted unless prior authorization is given by the Program Director LCCC Paramedic Program Application
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program 2021 Cohort Application Signature/Authorization: By typing my name in the signature line and submitting this application, or printing and signing this application, I hereby certify that all statements made on this application are true and correct. False statements may result in my removal from the program, ineligibility to be licensed with the Wyoming Office of EMS, and denial of authorization to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians psychomotor and/or cognitive written examination. Name of Applicant: ________________________________________ (Please Print) Sign and Date: ______________________________________ Date: _________________________ (Signature or typed) Acknowledgement of Essential Functions (Technical Standards) Attached to this application are the essential functions for a paramedic (the Technical Standards page). Please read these carefully and sign below as applicable (choose one). I hereby certify that I have read and understand the Functional Job Description of a paramedic (included in this packet). I have no conditions which preclude me from safely and effectively performing all the functions of the level of paramedic for which I am seeking training. I hereby certify that I have read and understand the Functional Job Description of a paramedic (included in this packet). I request the following accommodations for the successful performance of these duties:* Student Signature Date *Students with disabilities needing reasonable accommodations are encouraged to contact the DSS staff in Pathfinder 207, by calling 307.778.1359, or emailing DSS@lccc.wy.edu. Without prior approval by the DSS, accommodations cannot be provided by a course instructor or the program. LCCC Paramedic Program Information
Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program Check List Check list before you submit your application: To ensure your application is complete have you: □ Applied to LCCC? □ Completed the 2021 Cohort Application Form □ Completed and distributed your three reference forms and followed up with your references to ensure they are submitted to the paramedic program director by October 31st? □ Completely answered all of essay questions, printed and included them with the application? □ Ensured that all of your contact information is accurate and up-to-date? □ Signed and dated your application? □ Selected one option, signed and dated the Acknowledgement of Essential Functions (Technical Standards)? Submit application: Submit your completed application before October 31st. No late applications will be accepted unless prior authorization is given by the Program Director. Congratulations on submitting your application and good luck. Submit Application LCCC Paramedic Program Application
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