Paramedic Program Information and 2021 Cohort Application

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Paramedic Program Information and 2021 Cohort Application
Laramie County Community College
                                       Paramedic Program

                  Paramedic Program Information
                               and
                     2021 Cohort Application

The goal of the Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program is to prepare competent entry level
          EMT-Paramedics in the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective EMS learning domains.

 The Laramie County Community College Paramedic Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health
Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for
                               the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP).

                                       Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
                                               25400 U.S. Highway 19 North, Suite 158
                                                       Clearwater, FL 33763
                                                          www.caahep.org

                                          Committee on Accreditation for the EMS Professions
                                               8301 Lakeview Parkway, Suite 111-312
                                                         Rowlett TX 75088
                                                         www.coaemsp.org
Paramedic Program Information and 2021 Cohort Application
Laramie County Community College
                                      Paramedic Program

                               Program Admission Information
Thank you for your interest in the Paramedic Program at Laramie County Community College (LCCC). Our
goal is to provide you with the education that will prepare you to become a fully competent entry level
Paramedic and to continue a rewarding career in EMS. We hope that you will find our fast-paced and
challenging program to your liking. Prerequisite for entry into the program is an EMT-B State Certification or
National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification and employment or experience as
an EMT-B in the EMS field for at least one year.

Our Paramedic program begins in January and continues throughout the year, with a planned graduation in
December of the same year. After the successful completion of our program, students will be eligible to sit for
the NREMT Psychomotor Exam. Subsequently, successful passing of the NREMT Psychomotor Exam, will
allow students to be eligible to sit for the NREMT Cognitive Exam.

Conditional Acceptance: Admission to the paramedic program is conditional based on:

               1. Successful admission to LCCC
               2. Selection criteria listed below based on highest point value:

                       Item                                                       Points
                       Currently licensed in Wyoming as an EMT                       5
                       Current NREMT-B certification                                20
                       Current licensure at AEMT level or higher                     5
                       At least 3-years of experience in EMS or a related field     10
                       At least 1-year of experience in EMS or healthcare            5
                       Applied to and accepted at LCCC                               5
                       Essay Questions                                             100
                       Basic EMT Entrance Exam                                     100
                       Oral Interview Panel                                        390

Application Dates: The application process opens October 1st and will close October 31st. No late
applications will be accepted unless authorization is given by the Program Director. Applicants that
submit a completed application by October 31st, will be contacted to schedule a time to complete their multiple-
choice entrance exam and oral interview, during the weeks of November 9th - 13th and November 16th - 20th.
The entrance exam will take approximately one to two hours to complete. The oral interview panel will take
approximately 60-90 minutes.

Note: The application can be completed in writing by printing and return by mailing to the address listed on the
application. The application can also be completed and submitted electronically. Either way is acceptable but
must be completed and returned by October 31st.

It is the applicant’s responsibility to complete all required application documents and to provide all of
the required results/information within the application by the application deadline. Failure to provide all
required documentation and information by the application deadline will result in the applicant being
ineligible for consideration to the paramedic program.

LCCC Paramedic Program Information                                                                 Page 2 of 11
Paramedic Program Information and 2021 Cohort Application
Laramie County Community College
                                       Paramedic Program

Conditional Acceptance: Notification to applicants will be during the week of November 30th of either
conditional acceptance or non-acceptance to the paramedic program.

After Conditional Acceptance: Upon notification of conditional acceptance, the applicant will be sent a
program packet with instructions and information regarding the following additional requirements which must
be submitted by the dates stipulated in the acceptance letter and packet:

   1. Returned signed acceptance letter.
   2. A completed physical examination form including verification of current vaccinations and/or titers for
      Hepatitis B, Rubella, Rubeola, Mumps, PPD, Diphtheria-Tetanus and Varicella.
   3. A copy of current certification from the American Heart Association of Basic Life Support (BLS). CPR
      certification must be valid for the duration of the program.
   4. Students are advised that influenza vaccinations are also a requirement each Fall semester as mandated
      by various clinical sites.
   5. Acceptable Drug Screening and Criminal Background Checks. All allied health students are required to
      submit a pre-clinical urine drug screen according to the policy of the Allied Health Programs at LCCC.
      The drug screen is completed at the student’s expense and must be paid for at the time of application via
      the CastleBranch (or another LCCC contracted vendor) website.
   6. Applicants must also be eligible for licensure by the State of Wyoming Office of EMS. This includes,
      but not limited to finger printing and additional background checks at the student’s expense. See EMS
      Rules and Regulations for “Wyoming Emergency Medical Services Act of 1977” W.S. 33-36-101, at
      https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/ems/rules-and-scope-of-practice/ems-rules-and-regulations/

In addition to drug screening, for the safety of patients and health care workers, allied health students must also
undergo a background check performed by CastleBranch or similar vendor at the student’s expense.

At their discretion, clinical sites may also require a drug screening and/or a criminal background check prior to
allowing students into the clinical setting. (If required, any associated fees will be the responsibility of the
student.) In addition, LCCC and the clinical sites may require random drug testing and/or drug testing for
reasonable cause. Generally, the urine drug test screens for alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, or drugs that
impair judgment while in the clinical setting. Testing positive on the screening, or evidence of tampering with a
specimen, will disqualify a student from participation from the clinical assignment.

LCCC Paramedic Program Information                                                                    Page 3 of 11
Laramie County Community College
                                       Paramedic Program

A Student’/applicant’s acceptance into the paramedic program at LCCC will remain conditional and will
not be final until both of the following have been completed:

       1. LCCC has received completed background check information from the reporting agencies,
          and the background checks are clear of disqualifying offenses.
       2. Verification of eligibility for licensure by the State of Wyoming Office of EMS has been
          received.

For more information, please see the complete Health Sciences and Wellness Division Policies for Allied
Health Students posted on the Division website. Certain criminal activities, as evidenced by a criminal
background check may also disqualify a student from clinical participation.

Students/applicants are advised that the inability to gain clinical education experiences can result in the
inability to meet program objectives and outcomes. These circumstances may prevent final acceptance
into and/or progression through the program, and ultimately result in dismissal from the program.

In keeping with the program’s due process policies, if a student/applicant disagrees with the accuracy of the
information obtained, s/he may request a confirmatory test and/or a review of the accuracy of the background
information within seven (7) working days. All requests must be made in writing to the Dean, Health Science
and Wellness, and must include relevant information and/or extenuating circumstances supporting the request.
A designated committee will review the results and the request, and will be responsible for making the final
decision regarding the student’s/applicant’s request. The student/ applicant will be notified in writing of the
committee’s decision within seven (7) working days.

LCCC Non-Discrimination Statement: Laramie County Community College is committed to providing a safe
and nondiscriminatory educational and employment environment. The college does not discriminate on the
basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual
orientation or other status protected by law. Sexual harassment, including sexual violence, is a form of sex
discrimination prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. The college does not discriminate
on the basis of sex in its educational, extracurricular, athletic or other programs or in the context of
employment.

The College has a designated person to monitor compliance and to answer any questions regarding the college’s
non-discrimination policies. Please contact: Title IX and ADA Coordinator, Suite 205, Clay Pathfinder
Building, 1400 E. College Drive, Cheyenne, WY 82007, 307.778.1217, NDS@lccc.wy.edu.

LCCC Paramedic Program Information                                                                    Page 4 of 11
Laramie County Community College
                                       Paramedic Program

Selection of Students/Applicants: After all students/applicants have submitted a completed application,
completed the entrance exam and completed oral interview, the applications will be reviewed by a selection
committee composed of EMS faculty members and other EMS personnel. Other faculty and staff from Heath
Science and Wellness may also be members of the selection committee. Selection will be based on the
following criteria:

       1. Initial application selection criteria listed above
       2. References

Should any students/applicants receive identical scores, the date of receipt of the applications will be considered
in giving priority. Final selection will be made and the students/applicants will be notified. An alternate list
will be made to fill any cancellations or vacancies.

Our program does not use an annual waiting list; therefore, students/applicants not selected for admission into
the paramedic program who wish to reapply must initiate the admission application process again the following
year in order to be reconsidered. All students’/applicants’ applications not selected will be kept for one year
after the deadline and will then be destroyed.

Progression through the program: To progress in the paramedic program, the student must maintain a
minimum of 80% in each course. The cumulative course grade for each course will be calculated based on total
points. Course grades will be scored as follows:
                90-100% = A
                80-89% = B
                Less than 80% = F (Fail)
ACLS and PALS certification exams must be passed in order to continue in the program. Failing either of these
certification courses ACLS or PALS will constitute dismissal from the paramedic program. Each course’s total
grade must be above 80% to continue in the program. If the students grade at the end of a course is less than
80%, the student will be dismissed from the program and receive a failing grade.

Estimated Expenses: See current college catalog for general tuition expenses. Additional estimated expenses
for the entire paramedic program are:
                Program fees (program travel and lodging)               $1500
                Books, online access fees                               $1100
                Immunizations                                           $150-$200
                Background check and drug screening (LCCC)              $199
                Background check and finger printing (WY OEMS)          $39
                Uniforms and footwear                                   $150
                NREMT application fee (after program completion)        $125

Other Expenses: The student is expected to provide transportation to class and to the assigned clinical
education sites.

Dress Code: Street clothes or uniforms may be worn to class, but the student is advised that the clinical sites’
dress code policies must be strictly adhered to. This includes limited jewelry/piercing (only two small matched
earrings, one in each ear, are allowed) and all tattoos must be covered.

Student Services: See college catalog for information.
LCCC Paramedic Program Information                                                                   Page 5 of 11
Laramie County Community College
                                       Paramedic Program

Transfer Students: Prerequisites and other courses in the curriculum are only eligible for transfer credit from
regionally accredited institutions. Students seeking advanced standing will be evaluated on an individual basis
and may be required to pass competency examinations monitored by the faculty to be accepted and to determine
the level at which the student will enter the program. Official transcripts will be required. All transcripts will
be evaluated by LCCC’s Registrar, Dean of Health Science and Wellness and the Program Director for transfer
credit and/or advanced placement, as applicable.

Transfer students and students reentering the program will reenter under the applicable college catalog
requirements. Other courses may require testing to determine if they will be accepted.

Student Employment: Due to the accelerated nature and demands of the full-time paramedic program, student
employment is not encouraged. This personal decision should be based on individual performance in the
classroom, clinical education sites and personal health. It is the desire of the EMS faculty that students be
successful in the program and that essential learning is not compromised. Students will not be excused from
class or clinical assignments for personal work schedules.

Financial Aid: There are several options for aid at the college. An alternative to working during the program
may be found by contacting the Financial Aid Office at the following link:
https://www.lccc.wy.edu/services/financialaid/index.aspx

LCCC Paramedic Program degree/diploma offerings: The LCCC paramedic program offers an Associate of
Applied Science degree or a Credit Diploma.

For information regarding the Associate of Applied Science degree, please visit:
https://www.lccc.wy.edu/Documents/Programs/EMS_Paramedics/EMS-paramedic-program-map-2020-21.pdf

For information regarding the Credit Diploma, please visit:
https://www.lccc.wy.edu/Documents/Programs/EMS_Paramedics/EMS-paramedic-CD-program-map-2020-
21.pdf

Questions: If you have any questions about the paramedic program or the admission process which are not
answered here, please contact:

               Stephen Willoughby
               EMS Program Director
               Laramie County Community College
               TC 109
               1400 E. College Drive
               Cheyenne, WY 82007
               307-778-1149 (Office)
               swilloug@lccc.wy.edu

LCCC Paramedic Program Information                                                                  Page 6 of 11
Laramie County Community College
                                       Paramedic Program

          Paramedic Functional Job Analysis / Technical Standards
Paramedic Characteristics
The Paramedic must be a confident leader who can accept the challenge and high degree of responsibility
entailed in the position. The Paramedic must have excellent judgement and be able to prioritize decisions and
act quickly in the best interest of the patient, must be self-disciplined, able to develop patient rapport, interview
hostile patients, maintain safe distance, and recognize and utilize communication unique to diverse multicultural
groups and ages within those groups. Must be able to function independently at optimum level in a non-
structured environment that is constantly changing.

Even though the Paramedic is generally part of a two-person team generally working with a lower skill and
knowledge level Basic EMT, it is the Paramedic who is held responsible for safe and therapeutic administration
of drugs including narcotics. Therefore, the Paramedic must not only be knowledge about medications but must
be able to apply this knowledge in a practical sense. Knowledge and practical application of medications
include thoroughly knowing and understanding the general properties of all types of drugs including analgesics,
anesthetics, anti-anxiety drugs, sedatives and hypnotics, anti-convulsants, central nervous stimulants,
psychotherapeutics which include antidepressants, and other anti-psychotics, anti-cholerginics, cholergenics,
muscle relaxants, anti-dysrhythmics, anti-hypertensives, anticoagulants, diuretics, bronchodilators, opthalmics,
pituitary drugs, gastro-intestinal drugs, hormones, antibiotics, antifungals, anti-inflammatories, serums,
vaccines, anti-parasitics, and others.

The Paramedic is personally responsible, legally, ethically, and morally for each drug administered, for using
correct precautions and techniques, observing and documenting the effects of the drugs administered, keeping
one’s own pharmacological knowledge base current as to changes and trends in administration and use, keeping
abreast of all contraindications to administration of specific drugs to patients based on their constitutional make-
up, and using drug reference literature.

The responsibility of the Paramedic includes obtaining a comprehensive drug history from the patient that
includes names of drugs, strength, daily usage and dosage. The Paramedic must take into consideration that
many factors, in relation to the history given, can affect the type medication to be given. For example, some
patients may be taking several medications prescribed by several different doctors and some may lose track of
what they have or have not taken. Some may be using nonprescription/over the counter drugs. Awareness of
drug reactions and the synergistic effects of drugs combined with other medicines and in some instances, food,
is imperative. The Paramedic must also take into consideration the possible risks of medication administered to
a pregnant mother and the fetus, keeping in mind that drugs may cross the placenta.

The Paramedic must be cognizant of the impact of medications on pediatric patients based on size and weight,
special concerns related to newborns, geriatric patients and the physiological effects of aging such as the way
skin can tear in the geriatric population with relatively little to no pressure. There must be an awareness of the
high abuse potential of controlled substances and the potential for addiction, therefore, the Paramedic must be
thorough in report writing and able to justify why a particular narcotic was used and why a particular amount
was given. The ability to measure and re-measure drip rates for controlled substances/medications is essential.
Once medication is stopped or not used, the Paramedic must send back unused portions to proper inventory
arena.

LCCC Paramedic Program Information                                                                     Page 7 of 11
Laramie County Community College
                                        Paramedic Program

The Paramedic must be able to apply basic principles of mathematics to the calculation of problems associated
with medication dosages, perform conversion problems, differentiate temperature reading between centigrade
and Fahrenheit scales, be able to use proper advanced life support equipment and supplies ( i.e. proper size of
intravenous needles ) based on patient’s age and condition of veins, and be able to locate sites for obtaining
blood samples and perform this task, administer medication intravenously, administer medications by gastric
tube, administer oral medications, administer rectal medications, and comply with universal pre-cautions and
body substance isolation, disposing of contaminated items and equipment properly.

The Paramedic must be able to apply knowledge and skills to assist overdosed patients to overcome trauma
through antidotes, and have knowledge of poisons and be able to administer treatment. The Paramedic must be
knowledgeable as to the stages drugs/medications go through once they have entered the patient’s system and
be cognizant that route of administration is critical in relation to patient’s needs and the effect that occurs.

The Paramedic must also be capable of providing advanced life support emergency medical services to patients
including conducting of and interpreting electrocardiograms (EKGs), electrical interventions to support the
cardiac functions, performing advanced endotracheal intubations in airway management and relief of
pneumothorax and administering of appropriate intravenous fluids and drugs under direction of off-site
designated physician.

The Paramedic is a person who must not only remain calm while working in difficult and stressful
circumstances, but must be capable of staying focused while assuming the leadership role inherent in carrying
out the functions of the position. Good judgement along with advanced knowledge and technical skills are
essential in directing other team members to assist as needed. The Paramedic must be able to provide top
quality care, concurrently handle high levels of stress, and be willing to take on the personal responsibility
required of the position. This includes not only all legal ramifications for precise documentation, but also the
responsibility for using the knowledge and skills acquired in real life-threatening emergency situations.

The Paramedic must be able to deal with adverse and often dangerous situations which include responding to
calls in districts known to have high crime and mortality rates. Self-confidence is critical, as is a desire to work
with people, solid emotional stability, a tolerance for high stress, and the ability to meet the physical,
intellectual, and cognitive requirements demanded by this position.

Physical Demands
Aptitudes required for work of this nature are good physical stamina, endurance, and body condition that would
not be adversely affected by frequently having to walk, stand, lift, carry, and balance at times, in excess of 125
pounds. Motor coordination is necessary because over uneven terrain, the patient’s, the Paramedic’s, and other
workers’ well-being must not be jeopardized.

Comments
The Paramedic provides the most extensive pre-hospital care and may work for fire departments, private
ambulance services, police departments or hospitals. Response times for nature of work are dependent upon
nature of call. For example, a Paramedic working for a private ambulance service that transports the elderly
from nursing homes to routine medical appointments and check-ups may endure somewhat less stressful
circumstances than the Paramedic who works primarily with 911 calls in districts known to have high crime
rates. Thus, the particular stresses inherent in the role of the Paramedic can vary, depending on place and type
of employment.

LCCC Paramedic Program Information                                                                     Page 8 of 11
Laramie County Community College
                                      Paramedic Program

However, in general, in the analyst’s opinion, the Paramedic must be flexible to meet the demands of the ever-
changing emergency scene. When emergencies exist, the situation can be complex and care of the patient must
be started immediately. In essence, the Paramedic in the EMS system uses advanced training and equipment to
extend emergency physician services to the ambulance. The Paramedic must be able to make accurate
independent judgements while following oral directives. The ability to perform duties in a timely manner is
essential, as it could mean the difference between life and death for the patient.

Use of the telephone or radio dispatch for coordination of prompt emergency services is required, as is a pager,
depending on place of employment. Accurately discerning street names through map reading, and correctly
distinguishing house numbers or business addresses are essential to task completion in the most expedient
manner. Concisely and accurately describing orally to dispatcher and other concerned staff, one's impression of
patient's condition, is critical as the Paramedic works in emergency conditions where there may not be time for
deliberation. The Paramedic must also be able to accurately report orally and in writing, all relevant patient
data. At times, reporting may require a detailed narrative on extenuating circumstances or conditions that go
beyond what is required on a prescribed form. In some instances, the Paramedic must enter data on computer
from a laptop in ambulance. Verbal skills and reasoning skills are used extensively.

Source: USDOT 1998 National Standard Paramedic Curriculum
Downloaded from: https://coaemsp.org/caahep-standards-and-guidelines

LCCC Paramedic Program Information                                                                 Page 9 of 11
Laramie County Community College
                                     Paramedic Program

                                  Program Admission Process
Step 1: Apply to Laramie County Community College
       • Apply for Admission (http://lccc.wy.edu/admissions/index.aspx)
       • Select “Begin the Application” link and create your account

Step 2: Choose Degree-Seeking Students or Non-Degree-Seeking Student
       • If you are interested in earning an Associate of Applied Science degree
             o Choose Degree-Seeking Students tab and follow the 10 steps

       •   If you are interested in earning a Credit Diploma
               o Choose Non-Degree-Seeking Student and follow the 5 steps

LCCC Paramedic Program Information                                                 Page 10 of 11
Laramie County Community College
                                      Paramedic Program

Step 3: Complete Paramedic Program Application: Found at the end of this application.

Step 4: Complete upper section of three (3) reference forms: Download the seperate Reference Form.
       Send the Form to three to references for completion. Completed references are to be mailed directly to
       the EMS program director at the address given below or emailed to the program director by selecting
       the button "Email form to LCCC EMS." At least one reference must be from a former or current
       supervisor and/or instructor. No relatives may be used as references. Please remember that these forms
       are to be returned to the LCCC program director either electronically via email or by mail by the
       individual completing the form to:
               Stephen Willoughby
               EMS Program Director
               Laramie County Community College
               TC 109
               1400 E. College Drive
               Cheyenne, WY 82007
               swilloug@lccc.wy.edu

Step 5: Complete essay questions: Found at the end of this application. Create a new document
        and answer the 20 essay questions and include them with the application.

Step 6: Sign and Date Application: Once completed sign and date your application. If submitting
       electronically, typing your name in the signature box will act as your written signature.

Step 7: Complete application check list: Found at the end of this application.

Step 8. Submit application: Application may be written and mailed to the program director at the address
       above. You may also scan your written application and send to the program director via the email
       address listed above. If completing the application electronically, you may simply click the submit
       button found in the electronic version of this application.

LCCC Paramedic Program Information                                                               Page 11 of 11
Laramie County Community College
                                     Paramedic Program
                                    2021 Cohort Application
Name: ____________________________________                ________________________              ________
      Last                                                First                                 M.I.

Preferred name: ____________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________________________________

City: _____________________________________               State: __________________ Zip ___________

Phone number: (____)_______________________               Cell phone: __(____)______________________
             (Area code)                                                (Area code)

Preferred phone number to contact: _(____)_________________________________
                                    (Area Code)

Email address: ______________________________________________________________
              (Please use a personal email other than a LCCC email)

References:

1.___________________________________              _______________________________
 Name                                              Relation to applicant

2.___________________________________              _______________________________
 Name                                              Relation to applicant

3.___________________________________              _______________________________
 Name                                              Relation to applicant

Training/Certification:

Current level of EMT:

Date of current EMS level course completion:       _____/________
                                                    MM YYYY

Are you currently certified in Wyoming ?                                 If Yes State #__________________

NREMT # if applicable: _________________________________ NREMT Expiration _____/_____/________
                                                                          MM DD YYYY

    Note: Completed application is due by October 31st. No late applications will be accepted unless prior
                              authorization is given by the Program Director
  LCCC Paramedic Program Application
Laramie County Community College
                                       Paramedic Program

                                        2021 Cohort Application

Signature/Authorization: By typing my name in the signature line and submitting this application, or printing
and signing this application, I hereby certify that all statements made on this application are true and correct.
False statements may result in my removal from the program, ineligibility to be licensed with the Wyoming
Office of EMS, and denial of authorization to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians
psychomotor and/or cognitive written examination.

Name of Applicant: ________________________________________
                   (Please Print)

Sign and Date: ______________________________________               Date: _________________________
               (Signature or typed)

Acknowledgement of Essential Functions (Technical Standards)
Attached to this application are the essential functions for a paramedic (the Technical Standards page). Please
read these carefully and sign below as applicable (choose one).

                I hereby certify that I have read and understand the Functional Job Description of a paramedic
(included in this packet). I have no conditions which preclude me from safely and effectively performing all the
functions of the level of paramedic for which I am seeking training.

                I hereby certify that I have read and understand the Functional Job Description of a paramedic
(included in this packet). I request the following accommodations for the successful performance of these
duties:*

Student Signature                                                   Date

*Students with disabilities needing reasonable accommodations are encouraged to contact the DSS staff in
Pathfinder 207, by calling 307.778.1359, or emailing DSS@lccc.wy.edu. Without prior approval by the DSS,
accommodations cannot be provided by a course instructor or the program.

LCCC Paramedic Program Information
Laramie County Community College
                                     Paramedic Program

                                              Check List
Check list before you submit your application: To ensure your application is complete have you:

□ Applied to LCCC?
□ Completed the 2021 Cohort Application Form
□ Completed and distributed your three reference forms and followed up with your references to ensure they
are submitted to the paramedic program director by October 31st?

□ Completely answered all of essay questions, printed and included them with the application?
□ Ensured that all of your contact information is accurate and up-to-date?
□ Signed and dated your application?
□ Selected one option, signed and dated the Acknowledgement of Essential Functions (Technical Standards)?

Submit application: Submit your completed application before October 31st. No late applications will be
accepted unless prior authorization is given by the Program Director.

Congratulations on submitting your application and good luck.

                                              Submit Application

LCCC Paramedic Program Application
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