Paramedic preceptor: work readiness in graduate paramedics

Background: The paramedic profession is growing within Australia, and is undergoing change both in the nature of its roles in health care and in the nature of the education systems that produce paramedic graduates. Context: Within Australia there are two educational models for paramedic education: the post-employment vocational model and the pre-employment university model. With the progressive phasing out of the vocational model and the rising number of paramedic students there is increasing demand on paramedic preceptors. This increase in demand raises questions about the education of paramedics to perform the teaching role and their work readiness. Innovation: This article explores issues associated with the work readiness of paramedic graduates from the perspective of the preceptor role. Links are drawn to the industry competency standards for paramedic graduates. Implications: This article identifies the need for further research into the role of the paramedic preceptor and the work readiness of paramedic graduates to undertake this role.