Paramedic Careers: Corrections Facilities
Many people automatically associate a paramedic with an ambulance, but there are many other settings where these professionals may be found. Although they used to be staffed primarily by nurses, correctional facilities have begun to realize that a paramedic is much more proficient in critical procedures and life saving interventions. As a result, there are an increasing number of opportunities for paramedics to work in both state and federal correctional facilities. Before jumping right into a new position, it is important for an individual to learn a little more about what the job entails.
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The typical work environment for a paramedic usually involves running emergent or non-emergent medical and trauma calls in a designated geographical area, but working in a correctional facility is definitely not the same. There are many additional hazards that can present themselves and one thing that is drastically different is the fact that the patients in a correctional facility should all be considered dangerous and may not be completely willing to accept the medical care that the paramedic is trying to give. Some of the key objectives of a paramedic working in such an environment may include medication management and regular health evaluations, which are drastically different than the excitement most are accustomed to.
The compensation is typically much higher per hour in a correctional facility, but less hours are worked resulting in about the same annual salary of approximately $35,000. Depending on staffing issues, there may be opportunities to work overtime and this can provide an increase to the base pay. One of the best benefits of working for a state or federal correctional facility is the retirement programs, as most participate in government sponsored pensions and savings plans. Most positions also include health, vision, and dental insurance.
In contrast to the 24 hour rotations that street paramedics usually work, correctional facility employees typically work 12 hour shifts on a rotating basis. Most are required to work at least every other weekend, and a variety of different shifts may be incorporated into the schedule. Some facilities rotate their staff from 1st shift to 2nd shift to 3rd shift on a regular basis, and it can prove difficult to get used to such a schedule.
A career as a paramedic in a correctional facility is well within reach, as there is a national shortage of qualified professionals. The best way to pursue a federal or a state job is to apply online directly to the appropriate website which will depend on your locale. The National Association of EMT's maintains a database of all government agencies that seek both emergency medical technicians and paramedics, so this is a great place to begin.
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