UK Career Advice

Ambulance Care Attendant: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Ambulance Care Attendant?

Ambulance Care Attendants work alongside Paramedics in the UK, assisting them in providing vital medical support and transporting patients during emergency situations. They ensure patients receive appropriate care during transport and help with first aid, making it a great role for those interested in emergency healthcare.

How do I become a Ambulance Care Attendant?

Ambulance Care Attendants work alongside Paramedics in the UK, assisting them in providing vital medical support and transporting patients during emergency situations. They ensure patients receive appropriate care during transport and help with first aid, making it a great role for those interested in emergency healthcare.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Ambulance Care Attendant?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Ambulance Care Attendant

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Knowledge of basic medical procedures and equipment
  • Physical fitness and stamina for lifting and transporting patients
  • Quick decision-making and problem-solving abilities
  • Ability to work well in a team environment
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in record-keeping
  • Compassion and empathy for patients and their families
  • Flexibility and adaptability to changing situations and schedules
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills

Qualifications & Education

  • Entry via a student paramedic position with an ambulance service trust
  • Completion of an approved full-time university course in paramedical science
  • Qualification requirements for entry to university courses vary (GCSEs, A levels or equivalent)
  • Full, manual driving licence (with appropriate classifications) is required
  • Paramedics working in the NHS must be registered with the Health Professions Council

Career Path

Ambulance Care Attendant
Emergency Medical Technician
Paramedic
Emergency Nurse Practitioner
Emergency Medicine Physician
Ambulance Technician
Ambulance Paramedic
Advanced Paramedic Practitioner
Ambulance Dispatcher
Emergency Call Handler Supervisor
Patient Transport Service Driver
Fleet Manager
Healthcare Assistant
Nursing Associate
Registered Nurse

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ambulance service a good career?

Yes, being an ambulance care attendant can be a good career in the UK. However, whether the London Ambulance Service is a good company to work for depends on individual experiences and opinions. According to employee reviews, the company has an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5, with 51% of employees recommending it to a friend and 30% having a positive outlook for the business.

What does an ambulance health care assistant do?

An ambulance health care assistant in the UK is responsible for transporting non-emergency patients to and from hospital and clinic appointments and the patient's home. They must have a professional and caring attitude.

What is the career progression for ambulance care assistant?

The career progression for an ambulance care assistant in the UK includes becoming an emergency care assistant or applying to be a student paramedic. They can also move into personnel, training, health and safety, or operations management.

What qualifications do you need to be a ambulance care assistant?

There are no set qualifications required to become an Ambulance Care Attendant in the UK, but most employers expect good literacy and numeracy skills. Some may ask for GCSEs, NVQs or equivalent qualifications, and relevant work experience may also be preferred.

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