How to Be Ambulance Driver - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 8, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of an ambulance driver is critical in providing emergency medical care to those in need. Their responsibility is to transport patients from the place of the medical emergency to the nearest hospital or clinic. They must drive quickly and safely, taking into account the road and weather conditions and the patient's condition.

The ambulance driver must also be familiar with the roads and have knowledge of local hospitals and clinics so they can quickly get the patient to the right location. The ambulance driver's actions have a direct impact on a patient's outcome. A driver who is knowledgeable and prepared can help save lives, while a driver who is not up to the task can delay or prevent a patient from receiving the urgent medical care they need.

Therefore, it is essential that ambulance drivers are highly trained and well-prepared to handle any situation they may encounter while transporting a patient.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a drivers license. To become an ambulance driver, you must first have a valid driver's license. You will need to pass a written and road test to obtain a license.
Apply for the job. You can find ambulance driving positions in hospitals, fire departments, and private ambulance companies. Make sure to check the requirements for each job posting before submitting your application.
Complete a training program. Many employers require ambulance drivers to complete a training program. The program may include courses on patient care and emergency services, as well as hands-on driving instruction.
Pass a background check. Ambulance drivers must pass a background check before they can be hired. The background check may include a criminal record search and drug screening.
Obtain certification. In some states, ambulance drivers must be certified. The requirements vary by state, but may include completing a basic emergency medical technician (EMT) course or passing a written exam.
Keep current on certifications. Certification must be kept current in order to remain an ambulance driver. This may include participating in continuing education courses or attending refresher classes.

Being an ambulance driver requires a combination of knowledge, skill, and experience to be successful. Knowing the streets, traffic laws and navigation are essential elements in order to be efficient and safe. Drivers must also be able to make quick decisions in emergency situations and know the proper protocol for responding to medical calls.

Prompt and timely response to emergency calls is imperative in order to provide the best possible care to patients. Good communication with dispatch and other medical personnel is another important factor in the success of an ambulance driver. Finally, staying up-to-date on medical protocols, including CPR certification, is essential for any ambulance driver looking to stay skilled and efficient.

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Job Description

Ensure that the ambulance is in safe working condition at all times.
Transport sick and injured patients to and from medical facilities in a timely and safe manner.
Assist medical personnel with patient care and basic first aid when necessary.
Monitor and maintain medical supplies, equipment, and records while on duty.
Maintain written and verbal communication with medical personnel and other emergency responders.
Adhere to all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and guidelines pertaining to ambulance operation and patient care.
Participate in ongoing training and continuing education to stay up-to-date on medical protocols and procedures.
Maintain a professional demeanor at all times while interacting with the public.
Respond to emergency calls promptly and efficiently.
Provide customer service to patients and their families.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of emergency medical services and procedures
Ability to navigate quickly and safely to emergency destinations
Good interpersonal skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure
Ability to lift and carry patients
Ability to use medical equipment, such as stretchers, oxygen tanks, and medical supplies
Ability to maintain accurate records of patient care
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks
Knowledge of traffic laws and regulations
Ability to assess patient condition and provide first aid
Skill in operating ambulances, including driving, loading, unloading, and securing patients
Knowledge of basic medical terminology

Being an ambulance driver requires a high level of skill and responsibility. The ability to remain calm under pressure and make quick decisions is essential. Good communication skills are also important, as ambulance drivers must be able to effectively communicate with their team and other emergency responders.

Good driving skills are also necessary, as a driver must be able to maneuver the ambulance quickly and safely in all types of traffic conditions. Knowing the local area and having the knowledge of the fastest routes to destinations is also paramount. An ambulance driver must also be aware of the safety regulations and procedures for their vehicle and occupants.

Finally, an awareness of medical procedures and protocols is necessary in order to safely transport patients and administer medical care while en route. All these factors contribute to successfully transporting patients to their destinations in a timely manner, which ultimately can be a matter of life or death.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have driving an ambulance?
How have you maintained safety standards while driving an ambulance?
What challenges have you faced while driving an ambulance?
How do you handle difficult and emergency situations while driving an ambulance?
How do you decide which route to take while responding to a call?
What techniques do you use to handle heavy traffic while driving an ambulance?
How do you ensure that all on-board medical equipment is functioning correctly?
How do you stay up to date with traffic laws and regulations?
What steps do you take to ensure patient comfort while driving an ambulance?
How do you prioritize patient care and safety while driving an ambulance?

Common Tools in Industry

First Aid Kit. A collection of supplies for providing medical care in an emergency, including bandages, dressings, and antiseptic creams. (eg: Band-Aid, gauze pad, and antiseptic ointment)
Stretcher. A portable bed or cot used to carry sick or injured people. (eg: Collapsible stretcher with wheels)
Medical Supplies. Medical equipment and drugs used to treat patients. (eg: Oxygen tanks, IV fluids, medications)
GPS System. A device that uses satellite signals to determine the exact location of a vehicle. (eg: Garmin Nuvi)
Communication Devices. Devices used to communicate with other medical personnel, such as two-way radios and cell phones. (eg: Motorola two-way radio, iPhone)
Sat-Nav System. A device that gives directions and navigates the fastest route to a destination. (eg: TomTom Sat-Nav)
Emergency Lights and Siren. A warning system to alert other drivers of an ambulance in the vicinity. (eg: Flashing beacon and loud siren)
Defibrillator. An electronic device used to restart a stopped heart. (eg: Zoll AED Pro)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT)
American Ambulance Association (AAA)
National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT)
International Association of Emergency Medical Services Chiefs (IAEMSC)
National Association of EMS Educators (NAEMSE)
National Emergency Number Association (NENA)
American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP)
American Ambulance Association Foundation (AAAF)
National Association of State EMS Officials (NASEMSO)
Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC)

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Common Important Terms

Emergency Medical Services (EMS). The practice of providing medical care to individuals in emergency situations.
Stretcher. A device used to transport a person who is unable to walk.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). A trained healthcare provider who provides pre-hospital and out-of-hospital care for patients in emergency medical situations.
Paramedic. A healthcare professional who is trained to provide advanced life support to patients in emergency medical situations.
First Aid. Immediate medical assistance given to a person who has been injured or is in need of urgent medical attention.
Emergency Room. A department of a hospital that is equipped to receive and treat patients who require immediate medical attention.
Ambulance. A vehicle equipped to transport patients to and from medical facilities.
Patient Transport. The process of transporting a patient from one place to another for medical purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are required to become an Ambulance Driver?

Generally, Ambulance Drivers must have a valid driver's license and may need to complete additional training or certification. In some cases, they may also need to pass an exam or obtain a special permit.

What type of duties do Ambulance Drivers perform?

Ambulance Drivers are responsible for transporting patients in medical emergencies from one location to another. They must follow specific safety protocols and provide medical attention when necessary, such as administering first aid or CPR.

How many hours does an Ambulance Driver typically work?

Ambulance Drivers typically work full-time hours and may be on-call for emergencies. An Ambulance Driver's shifts can vary depending on their employer and the needs of the facility.

What are the physical requirements for an Ambulance Driver?

Ambulance Drivers must be physically fit and able to lift and carry patients. They must also be able to maneuver the vehicle in tight or difficult spaces.