We admit that we may be biased if you ask us which company is the best to get your training with... but objectively we can say there are a few different criteria you should consider when choosing where to get your First Responder and EMR Training. Asking a few key questions before you register can make sure you're finding the course that's best for you.
1. Certified program, recognized by the Paramedic Association of Canada
Ensure the course you are taking doesn't just meet the standards, but is an approved program from the Paramedic Association of Canada. If you're not sure, ask.
2. Experienced Instructors
Who is going to be teaching the course you are taking, and what are their credentials? The best way to learn is from instructors that are both experienced instructors and know the fundamentals of teaching, as well as having real life experience they can draw from. Some instructors are limited to the course content alone, which may be fine if you want a basic level of training. If you want to take that training to the next level, look to take your course from an instructor with real-world experience.
3. Learning environment
How much of the course is focused on learning the content and how much is put towards practicing real-life scenarios? It is important to know that you will be getting time to put your skills into action, and that the scenarios you practice feel like real-life situations. Part of training as a medical responder is how to handle a stressful situation, how to keep your cool while drawing on the skills that you've learned. Without being put in a realistic situation, you may have the knowledge, but not the opportunity to really put those skills into action and learn how you can improve your response.
4. Do you bring in any outside experts or professionals?
Courses that go the extra mile may bring in people currently working as professional responders to share their real-life experience, and help run scenarios to bring additional learning beyond the standard course material. This is something we do, and think it would be beneficial for every EMR and First Responder Program being offered.
5. Equipment - quality and use
Make sure the course you take uses high quality equipment, and encourages you to practice with and use the equipment. Ask if you can drop in on a course to meet the instructor and see the equipment being used. Is it well organized and maintained? Do we talk about using gauze to wrap a wound, or do we actually open a package of gauze to wrap a wound? It makes a big difference.
Have additional questions? Ask us!