Certified Flight Paramedic

Certified Flight Paramedic (CFP) is a designation awarded to paramedics who have achieved a specialized level of training and certification that prepares them for providing critical care and advanced life support in aerial environments, such as helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft. This certification is recognized as a mark of professional achievement and expertise in the field of aeromedical evacuation and transport.

Overview

Flight paramedics are responsible for the care of critically ill or injured patients being transported by air ambulance. The environment in which they operate presents unique challenges not encountered in traditional ground-based paramedicine, including the effects of altitude, limited space for patient care, and the need to perform complex medical procedures in flight. As such, Certified Flight Paramedics possess advanced skills in patient assessment, critical care, and emergency procedures, along with a thorough understanding of aviation medicine and safety.

Certification Process

The certification process for becoming a Certified Flight Paramedic is rigorous and involves meeting several prerequisites, completing specialized training, and passing a comprehensive examination. The Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN) offers the Certified Flight Paramedic (FP-C) examination, which is one of the most recognized certifications in the field.

Prerequisites

Candidates for the FP-C certification typically must:

• Hold a current and unrestricted paramedic license
• Have a minimum of three to five years of experience in paramedicine, with a portion of that time spent in critical care or emergency settings
• Complete specific hours of flight or critical care transport experience, as required by the certifying body

Training

Prospective flight paramedics undergo extensive training that covers:

• Advanced airway management
• Flight physiology
• Critical care pharmacology
• Trauma management in flight
• Neonatal and pediatric transport
• Emergency procedures specific to the aerial environment

Examination

The FP-C examination assesses the candidate's knowledge and skills in areas relevant to flight paramedicine. It includes questions on critical care, flight safety, patient assessment, and medical emergencies.

Scope of Practice

The scope of practice for Certified Flight Paramedics extends beyond that of standard paramedics, encompassing advanced diagnostic methods, complex therapeutic interventions, and the use of specialized equipment. They work closely with flight nurses and other medical professionals to ensure the highest level of care for patients during transport.

Employment

Certified Flight Paramedics are employed by hospitals, government agencies, and private companies that operate air ambulance services. Their expertise is also sought after in disaster response situations and in settings where rapid transport of critically ill patients is required.

Continuing Education

To maintain their certification, Certified Flight Paramedics must complete continuing education credits in areas related to flight paramedicine and critical care. This ensures that they remain current with the latest advancements in medical care and flight safety.

Conclusion

The role of a Certified Flight Paramedic is critical in the field of emergency medical services, providing life-saving care in unique and challenging environments. Their advanced training and certification ensure that patients receive the best possible care during aeromedical transport.