Paramedicine

Prepares competent entry-level paramedics in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills) and affective (behavior) learning domains with or without exit points at the advanced emergency medical technician, emergency medical technician, and/or emergency responder levels.

Program Admission

Selection Criteria
Admission is based on special admission procedures and the number of points an applicant receives. Eligible students will be numerically ranked according to total points. Admission will be offered to the applicants on the list with the highest priority points. In the event of applicants having an equal number of points, applicants will be selected as below. Selection will be accomplished by the EMS Committee using the following point-based criteria:

 

Selection criteria score will determine the applicant’s rank in the program admission process. In the event of a tie in accumulated points, the priority will be given to the applicant:

1. First, by overall score on the FISDAP Paramedic Entrance Exam.
2. Second, to the applicant who has a documented EMS agency sponsorship agreement for the internship. Form provided in application packet.

Tied accumulated selection criteria points, and subsequent program candidate selection, only becomes a factor when there are more applicants than seats available in the program.

Students must apply for admission to Western Nevada College AND the WNC paramedic program. Applications for the next spring are available on the WNC Nursing & Allied Health Web page on or after Sept 2. The last date for submission of an application to the program is Nov 15.

Prerequisites
Students must complete BIOL 200* with a grade of “C” or better to apply for the paramedic program (C- or lower will not be accepted) and provide a copy of their Nevada State Certification at the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). National Registry Certification will not be accepted. State EMT certification is due to the program prior to the start of classes. Students may apply for admission to the paramedic program while in the process of completing BIOL 200, provided the course is completed by the end of the applicable fall semester or, if taken at another institution, an official transcript showing completion of the course is provided by Jan 2 to Admissions and Records of the year of application. Evidence of courses in progress must be submitted to Admissions and Records by the application deadline.
*BIOL 223 & 224 may be accepted in lieu of BIOL 200

Application & Supporting Documents
Submit the completed application with supporting documents, which includes Nevada State Certification at the AEMT level to the EMS Program in the time frame delineated in the application packet. When applicable, official transcripts from other colleges must be submitted to WNC Admissions and Records.

Entrance Testing
Students are required to take the FISDAP Paramedic Entrance Exam as part of the application process. The entrance exam for prospective paramedic students is an EMS-specific exam that is designed to evaluate nationally registered EMTs who are applying or matriculating to paramedic school. Please see the Paramedic Program Coordinator or NAH Department for fee and scheduled times.

Requirements

• A grade of C or better in all paramedic courses is required to continue in program.
• Applicants not selected will not be carried forward and must reapply to be considered for admission the following year.
• Paramedic students are expected to meet the DOT Functional Job Analysis as described in the application packet.
• Documentation and currency of the following after acceptance into the program and prior to the start of classes:
  • An acceptable physical examination and required immunizations and tests.
  • Current CPR certification – AHA Healthcare Provider
  • Major medical health insurance (card required)
  • An acceptable background check

Other Important Information

• Paramedic learning activities are scheduled on and off campus on days, evenings and weekends.
• Course organization requires students to have basic computer skills, including the ability to navigate various online learning programs.
• Clinical experiences take place at acute care hospitals, clinics and other
  medical facilities.
• Field experience takes place on an ALS ambulance under the direct supervision of a preceptor.

Mission

The Paramedic Program reflects the mission of Western Nevada College by assisting students to develop professional competencies that value lifelong learning, use of evidence-based practice, ethical integrity and critical thinking skills. The development of the competencies prepares students to function as safe and competent entry-level professionals.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate behaviors consistent with professional and employer expectations of an entry-level paramedic.
• Demonstrate proficiency in all skills necessary to fulfill the role of an entry-level paramedic.
• Demonstrate the ability to comprehend, evaluate and apply information relative to the role of an entry-level paramedic.