If you're looking to work in the emergency medical services field in the UK, then you may have come across the term FREC 3. FREC stands for First Response Emergency Care, and it's a qualification that is required for certain jobs in the ambulance service and other emergency medical services.
In this blog, we'll take a closer look at FREC 3 jobs in the UK, what they involve, and the requirements for getting into this field.
What is FREC 3?
FREC 3 is a medical training course that teaches first responders how to deal with medical emergencies. It's a level 3 course, which means that it's more advanced than basic first-aid training but not as advanced as paramedic training.
The course covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, medical emergencies, and trauma emergencies. It also includes practical training in skills such as airway management, defibrillation, and administration of medication.
What jobs require FREC 3?
FREC 3 is a requirement for certain jobs in the emergency medical services field. These jobs include:
Emergency Care Assistant (ECA): An ECA works alongside a paramedic or ambulance technician to provide emergency care to patients. This may involve transporting patients to the hospital, administering medication, and monitoring vital signs.
Associate Ambulance Practitioner (AAP): An AAP is a step up from an ECA and can work independently or as part of a team. They may attend emergency calls, provide treatment, and transport patients to the hospital.
Event Medical Provider: These providers offer medical support at events such as concerts, festivals, and sports matches. They may be responsible for dealing with minor injuries and illnesses, as well as more serious medical emergencies.
Requirements for FREC 3 Jobs
To work in a FREC 3 job, you'll need to have completed the FREC 3 course and have a few other qualifications under your belt. These may include:
A full UK driving license: This is essential for jobs that involve driving an ambulance.
A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check: This is a background check that is required for all jobs in the healthcare sector.
Relevant work experience: Although it's not always essential, having some experience working in the healthcare sector can be beneficial.
Good communication skills: Working in the emergency medical services field requires good communication skills, as you'll be dealing with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
Conclusion
FREC 3 jobs in the UK offer an exciting and challenging career for those with an interest in emergency medical care. If you're considering a career in this field, it's important to understand the requirements and training needed to get there. Completing the FREC 3 course is just the beginning – you'll also need to gain relevant work experience and be prepared to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment. However, for those with the right skills and qualifications, it can be an incredibly rewarding career.
