Primary Care Paramedic (PCP)

The Primary Care Paramedic’s (PCP) scope of practice is governed by provincial regulations and guidelines established by the Nova Scotia Regulator of Paramedicine (NSRoP). PCPs must operate within these guidelines and often work under the direction of advanced care paramedics, physicians, or other higher-level healthcare professionals when necessary.

PCPs are trained to provide basic life support and manage various medical and trauma situations. Their scope of practice includes the following:

Basic Life Support (BLS)

• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Defibrillation
• Airway management
• Ventilation

Patient Assessment

• Primary Assessment: Conducting a rapid assessment to identify and manage life-threatening conditions
• Secondary Assessment: Performing a thorough physical examination to identify other medical issues or injuries
• Vital signs monitoring

Medical Interventions

• Administering medications including epinephrine for anaphylaxis, nitroglycerin for chest pain, aspirin for suspected myocardial infarction, and bronchodilators for asthma
• Administering oral glucose for patients with hypoglycemia
• Using epinephrine autoinjectors for severe allergic reactions
• Administering medications for pain relief, typically under medical direction

Trauma Care

• Using cervical collars, backboards, and other devices to immobilize patients with suspected spinal injuries
• Applying direct pressure, bandages, and tourniquets to control external bleeding.
• Splinting fractures and dislocations

Patient Transport

• Ensuring safe and effective transport of patients to medical facilities
• Communicating effectively with emergency medical services (EMS) teams, hospitals, and other healthcare providers