PHECC Emergency First Responder (EFR) Course
The PHECC Emergency First Responder course is designed for individuals who wish to develop advanced pre-hospital emergency care skills beyond basic first aid.
An Emergency First Responder is trained in Cardiac First Response and possesses additional knowledge and practical skills to assess and manage patients in a pre-hospital environment. EFRs may be members of emergency services, healthcare practitioners, workplace responders, or members of the public seeking a higher level of training.
This programme equips participants to respond effectively to both medical and trauma emergencies, whether as part of a coordinated response or in a standalone capacity.
If you would like further information or wish to arrange a booking, please contact us.
Course Objectives
The aim of the course is to equip participants with the knowledge and skills required to deliver life-saving interventions in a pre-hospital setting.
On completion, participants will be able to:
- Recognise and assess common life-threatening and serious medical conditions in a pre-hospital environment.
- React to emergencies using the appropriate EFR standard of care in accordance with PHECC Clinical Practice Guidelines.
- Respond safely and effectively to medical and trauma emergencies using the EFR skill set.
- Record and report actions and interventions appropriately during patient management and handover to emergency medical services.
- Maintain a professional manner and approach when performing duties as an EFR.
Who It Is For
The EFR course is suited to individuals who wish to expand on the knowledge and skills gained in courses such as First Aid Response.
It is particularly beneficial for:
- Workplace responders
- Community responders
- Individuals seeking progression to Emergency Medical Technician level or higher
- Those pursuing a career pathway in emergency medical services
A valid Cardiac First Response or First Aid Response certificate is required prior to enrolment.
Course Description
The programme is delivered by qualified instructors using a structured and interactive format that includes:
- Presentations and guided instruction
- Demonstrations
- Practical skills stations
- Scenario-based simulations
- Group discussion
The course is delivered in English.
The standard course duration is five days, totalling 30 hours excluding Cardiac First Response training. Public course dates are scheduled periodically. Private courses can be delivered over evenings, weekdays, or weekends as required. Regardless of scheduling format, the minimum required duration is observed in line with PHECC standards.
Modules
- Cardiac First Response Community Level
- Primary survey
- Secondary survey
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Continuum of pre-hospital emergency care
- Principles of lifting and moving
- Pharmacology
- Airway and ventilation
- Respiratory emergencies
- Cardiovascular emergencies
- General medical emergencies
- Bleeding, shock and soft tissue injuries
- Musculoskeletal, head and spinal injuries
- Paediatrics
- Childbirth
- Information management
- Communications
- Wellbeing of the EFR
- Infection prevention and control
- Medico-legal aspects of EFR practice
Duration
30 hours delivered over five days, excluding Cardiac First Response training.
For private group bookings, alternative scheduling formats are available. Please contact us for further details.
Assessment
Participants are assessed continuously throughout the course and must complete:
- Practical skills demonstrations
- Scenario-based assessments
- A multiple-choice examination
The minimum pass mark is 80 percent.
Certification
Upon successful completion, participants receive a joint PHECC and Medicore Medical Services Emergency First Responder certificate valid for three years.
To maintain certification, participants must complete a two-day recertification course prior to expiry. Individuals must also independently maintain an in-date Cardiac First Response certification.
Why Choose Medicore
PHECC-certified curriculum
Delivered in accordance with national standards and Clinical Practice Guidelines.
Comprehensive scope
Covers medical, trauma, paediatric and medico-legal components required for pre-hospital care.
Clear progression pathway
Provides a foundation for progression to Emergency Medical Technician and higher levels of training.
Ongoing support
Recertification pathways are available to ensure qualifications remain current.