Postgraduate APS404 CCP and ECP Clinical placement scope of practice

This document details the expanded scope of practice for post graduate paramedic students undertaking clinical placement in the out of hospital environment.

Charles Sturt University indemnifies them to practice at their current clinical skill level within existing protocols, guidelines, and skill framework whilst on placement. In addition to this, under the supervision of an appropriately qualified mentor, students are authorised to perform the interventions listed below whilst on placement. This authorisation does not extend beyond their allocated clinical placement hours.

Critical Care Paramedic stream

  • Anaesthesia planning and rapid sequence induction
  • Endotracheal intubation
  • Needle Cricothyroidotomy
  • Surgical airways (front of neck airway access)
  • Waveform capnography
  • Chest needle decompression
  • Finger thoracostomy
  • Intraosseous access and infusion
  • Synchronised cardioversion
  • Transcutaneous pacing

Extended Care Paramedic stream

  • Insertion of a nasal tampon
  • Use of an ophthalmoscope
  • Use of an otoscope
  • Suturing
  • Tissue glue
  • Wound cleaning/dressing
  • Digital nerve block
  • Hand, knee, and shoulder assessment
  • Plaster and dynacast application
  • Reduction of patella and digital dislocations
  • Indwelling urinary catheter insertion
  • Nasogastric tube insertion
  • Suprapubic catheter insertion

Students can satisfy their clinical placement requirements by observing, assisting with, or performing these skills under supervision. The decision to permit students to assist with or perform these skills rests with the individual mentor.

For further information, please contact:

Dr Sonja Maria
Associate Head of School | Head of Discipline Paramedicine
School of Nursing, Paramedicine and Healthcare Sciences

Phone: +61 2 6338 4090
Email: smaria@csu.edu.au