Winnipeg, MB - The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) would like to congratulate 11 paramedics who recently completed the Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP) training program and received their certificates today during a graduation ceremony at City Hall. This intensive, three-year program gives paramedics a specialized level of training and knowledge, better equipping the WFPS to provide excellent patient care.
In addition to their dedication to the ACP program and expanding their knowledge base to help Winnipeggers, the latest graduating class has come together to purchase an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) device to donate to the Ronald McDonald House Manitoba.
“As Mayor, I am proud these exceptional individuals have chosen this exciting and challenging opportunity to advance their careers and skills that also increase the quality of life-saving service they provide to our citizens every day,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “A career as a first responder is not a job just anyone can do and I am very pleased we have individuals like these who are clearly dedicated to the highest level of health and safety in our city.”
ACP candidates undergo an intensive selection process, which includes two years of experience as a primary care paramedic, a written exam, and an interview. Prior to working as an advanced care paramedic, graduates of the program are required to challenge the National Registry Exam. Program participants complete ACP courses while continuing to serve as a paramedic. Including these latest graduates of the competitive ACP program, the WFPS has 120 advanced care paramedics on staff.
“ACP graduates provide the highest level of pre-hospital care,” said Chief John Lane, WFPS. “Their work and success throughout this intense, competitive program shows a commitment to serving Winnipeggers and providing the best care possible. The WFPS is proud to have these latest graduates as part of our team. Winnipeggers can take pride in knowing that that the WFPS continues to be a national leader in emergency medical services.”
ACP graduates gain a number of specialized skills throughout the program, including a broader understanding and appreciation of disease and trauma, advanced airway management, chest decompression, symptomatic cardiac dysrhythmia management, and a greater pharmaceutical responsibility. With the long-term goal of having at least one advanced care paramedic in every ambulance at all times, the ACP program is one of many ways that the WFPS commits to a high standard of patient care.