INTRODUCTIONA Paramedic (EMT-P) works directly with the public providing personal assistance, medical care, and emotional support. They respond to medical emergencies by providing on-site treatment, crisis intervention, life-saving stabilization, and transportation of sick or injured patients to a treatment center. Internet searches, a personal interview with a paramedic, and the Occupational Outlook Handbook were the sources used. to collect the information in this profile. JOB DESCRIPTION Working Conditions According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), paramedics are required to work more than 40 hours per week. They often have irregular work hours since emergency services operate 24 hours a day. Both indoors and outdoors, working in all weathers is one of the challenges faced on the job. Physical challenges exist due to intense periods of kneeling, standing, walking, bending, and heavy lifting. Job tasks create exposure to violent situations, as well as communicable diseases increasing the risk of contracting illnesses. Job Duties A paramedic is required to perform a variety of tasks, including being a confident leader who can accept the challenge and high degree of responsibility that the position entails. O*Net offers tasks related to paramedic work; some of them are listed below. Administer first aid and life-sustaining care to sick or injured people.  Observe, record and report to the physician the patient's condition, treatment provided and reactions to medications and treatment. Maintain vehicles, medical and communications equipment and replenish supplies Communicate with dispatchers and receiving processing center staff Decontaminate in the middle of a sheet of paper......The job of a paramedic is physically difficult and emotionally stressful, sometimes involving suffering patients and life-threatening situations. Elizabeth Mesick, EMT-P, Guilford County Emergency Services, says, “…although the job is very stressful, it is exciting and I enjoy the opportunity to help people. This position is very rewarding and I would recommend it to anyone who has a passion for helping people and a strong stomach. » Works Cited “Career One Stop Pathways to Career Success.” North Carolina Employment Security Commission. September 2, 2009. The web. February 18, 2010. “Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics.” » Professional Perspectives Handbook, 2010-11 edition. December 17, 2009. Web. February 18, 2010. "Summary Report for: 29-2041.00 - Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics." » O*Net. 2008. Internet. February 18, 2010. Mesick, Elizabeth. Personal interview. February 22. 2010.