Paramedic

The Sierra College Paramedic Program consists of 30 total units required for completion of the program. Visit Credit for Prior Learning to find out if any prior course work and/or work experience can be counted toward your total units.

Tuition for the Sierra College Program for in-state tuition is $46 per unit* plus additional fees. Visit Costs for more details. Students may also incur additional fees for Clinical and Field Placements, texts, and online resources.

*Tuition is established by the State Legislature and subject to change

Students may withdraw from their Health Sciences (HSCI) course online or at an Admission and Records office.

Students are responsible for informing the instructor of their intent to withdraw. Withdraw dates will vary from class to class, and students must know the proper withdrawal procedure and deadline dates for the course they are enrolled in. It is a student’s responsibility to understand the appropriate process for dropping a course. If a student needs assistance to withdraw, they must inform their instructor. Learn more about Refund of Tuition/Fees.

Clinical Experience Criteria

Successful completion of an 80% or higher in HSCI 53 & HSCI 54 will allow placement into HSCI 55 (Clinical Placement) and HSCI 56 (Field Internship Placement).

Certificate of Course Completion

A final grade awarded will be based on the student’s cumulative course scores, including quizzes, the mid-term exam, final written examination, and Psychomotor Skills.

Students that achieve a minimum cumulative score of 80% at course conclusion, complete all attendance and course requirements, and pass all National Registry EMT (NREMT) psychomotor skills testing will receive the Certificate of Course Completion.

Paramedic Certification Exam

A Certificate of Course Completion is required for eligibility to take the NREMT Examination. The NREMT Exam has been adopted as the California statewide Paramedic certification exam.

• Academic Calendar
• Appeals Process
• EMS Programs Handbook
• Student Grievance Procedure

No data available at this time.

Technical standards for a paramedic program outline the essential physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities required for students to successfully complete the program and function as competent paramedics. These standards are designed to ensure that graduates can perform the necessary tasks and responsibilities of a paramedic safely and effectively.

While specific standards may vary between programs, here are the technical standards for the Sierra College Paramedic Programs:

1. Physical Abilities
   • Lift and carry a certain amount of weight (e.g., lifting and moving patients and equipment).
   • Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and other physically demanding procedures.
   • Have sufficient mobility, strength, and dexterity to assist and treat patients in various settings.
2. Sensory and Perceptual Abilities
   • See and interpret patient conditions, vital signs, and medical equipment displays.
   • Hear and respond to alarms, emergency signals, and communication from colleagues and patients.
3. Cognitive Abilities
   • Possess critical thinking skills to make quick and accurate decisions in emergency situations.
   • Understand and apply medical knowledge to assess and treat patients.
   • Effectively communicate and collaborate with other healthcare professionals and patients.
4. Emotional and Behavioral Stability
   • Maintain composure and focus in high-stress and emotionally charged situations.
   • Demonstrate emotional stability and resilience to cope with challenging and traumatic events.
   • Exhibit professional behavior and ethical conduct.
5. Communication Skills
   • Communicate clearly and effectively with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
   • Use appropriate communication methods and tools, including radio communication.
6. Teamwork and Collaboration
   • Work effectively as part of a healthcare team.
   • Collaborate with other emergency responders, physicians, and healthcare providers.
7. Autonomy
   • Works independently and exercises decision making skills within the appropriate scope of practice within the program.
   • Awareness of barriers and constraints that may interfere with one’s autonomy.
8. Ethical and Professional Conduct
   • Adhere to ethical principles and professional standards.
   • Respect patient confidentiality and privacy.

It’s important to note that specific technical standards may vary, and candidates for paramedic programs should review the standards of the particular program they are interested in to ensure they meet the requirements. Additionally, these standards may be subject to periodic updates.

Paramedics face various occupational risks and challenges due to the nature of their work, which involves providing emergency medical care in diverse and often unpredictable environments.

Some of the occupational risks associated with being a paramedic include:

1. Physical Hazards
   • Exposure to infectious diseases: Paramedics may come into contact with bodily fluids and infectious agents, increasing the risk of contracting diseases.
   • Physical injuries: Lifting and moving patients, navigating challenging environments, and working in confined spaces can lead to musculoskeletal injuries.
2. Psychological and Emotional Stress
   • Traumatic events: Paramedics frequently encounter traumatic situations, such as accidents, violent incidents, and severe injuries, which can lead to emotional distress.
   • Burnout: The demanding nature of the job, long hours, and exposure to distressing situations can contribute to burnout and mental health challenges.
3. Workplace Violence
   • Paramedics may encounter violence from patients, bystanders, or others at the scene of emergencies, posing a risk to their personal safety.
4. Exposure to Harmful Substances
   • Hazardous materials: Paramedics may be exposed to hazardous substances at the scene of accidents or emergencies, including chemicals, gases, or environmental pollutants.
5. Transportation Risks
   • Motor vehicle accidents: Responding to emergencies involves driving at high speeds, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries during transport.
6. Inadequate Resources
   • Limited resources: Paramedics may face challenges due to inadequate equipment, personnel, or support resources during emergencies, impacting the quality of care they can provide.
7. Infectious Diseases

   • Exposure to bloodborne pathogens: Paramedics may be at risk of exposure to blood and other bodily fluids, increasing the risk of transmission of bloodborne diseases.

8. Environmental Factors

   • Extreme weather conditions: Paramedics may be exposed to adverse weather conditions, such as extreme heat, cold, or inclement weather, affecting both their safety and the well-being of patients.

9. Communication Challenges

   • Extreme weather conditions: Paramedics may be exposed to adverse weather conditions, such as extreme heat, cold, or inclement weather, affecting both their safety and the well-being of patients.

To mitigate these risks, paramedic programs often provide training in safety protocols, infection control measures, stress management, and situational awareness. Ongoing education and support for paramedics’ mental health are also essential to help them cope with the unique challenges of their profession. Additionally, access to appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety standard