Introduction 

1. The test is administered under the direction of Wyatt Inman, M.Sc. (Kinesiology), Learning Manager of the Sport and Recreation Management program at Holland College. All decisions and rulings made by him and his personnel are final.
2. The following information is concerning the administration of the test and the documentation to be completed by your physician. Your physician may want to review this material when deciding about your current level of health, as it pertains to your participation in this test.

Pre-Test Suggestions

Training

The PPAT is a physically demanding test. Candidates who exercise regularly (which includes a muscular strength and endurance training component) and enjoy healthy lifestyle practices should be prepared to take this test. However, sedentary people will find this test difficult, largely due to the heavy loads that must be manipulated during the protocol. Candidates who are in the process of training for this test are reminded to consult with your physician with respect to the appropriateness of your training goals and your risk of developing musculo-skeletal injuries.

Preparing

To maximize physical performance and minimize adverse effects on your blood pressure and heart rate, it is recommended that candidates ensure they are well rested and:

• Do not consume beverages containing caffeine for two hours prior to the test (e.g. coffee, tea, colas, chocolate)
• Do not smoke for two hours prior to the test.
• Do not eat large amounts of food for two hours prior to the test.
• Do not consume alcoholic beverages for 24 hours prior to the test.
• Do not perform any intense physical activities 24 hours prior to the test. 

Appropriate Testing Dress

• Wear sturdy athletic shoes. Street shoes are not permitted on a gymnasium floor.
• Wear loose fitting, athletic clothing (e.g. shorts, sweat pants, T-shirt).
• Weight training gloves and back support belts are permitted and encouraged.
• Bring a towel and padlock if you wish to shower after the test.

Pre-Test Screening

1. The candidate should arrive at the pre-screening portion dressed to participate.
2. The PAR-Q & You form must be completed and presented at registration.
3. The candidate must have a pre-test heart rate of less than 100 beats/min*.
4. The candidate must have a pre-test blood pressure of less than 144/94 mmHg*.

*These measures are taken in accordance to the Canadian Physical Activity, Fitness & Lifestyle Approach protocol guideline. Should the candidate exceed these values, a five-minute rest will be given before the measurements are re-taken. Should these values still be exceeded, the candidate will be excluded from the testing session and referred to their physician.

Paramedic Physical Abilities Test (PPAT) Description

The PPAT consists of the following:

•  Leg 1:  Climb stairs from basement with Defibrillator and Oxygen bag (46 stairs) – Each piece of equipment equals 25 lbs.
• Leg 2:  Perform CPR compressions (only) at rate of 100 per minute for two minutes (using mannequin with clicker device for accuracy of depth of compressions and menometer for proper rate).
• Leg 3:  Carry two 50 lb. dumbbells down two flights of stairs facing forward (24 stairs).
• Leg 4:  Carry two 50 lb. dumbbells up two flights of stairs facing backwards to the stairs (24 stairs)
• Leg 5:  Strap Heavy Manny with four straps including shoulders (205 lb. mannequin, already on stretcher) and lift (at the head) from lowest position to loading position, pausing and returning stretcher to lowest position. Then moving to foot of stretcher and controlling the handle while lifting to the loading position.
• Leg 6:  Push the stretcher 75 ft. to ambulance in lab with guidance of partner,
• Leg 7:  Lift the foot of the stretcher and allow partner to lift carriage into place to lock.
• Leg 8:  Place Heavy Manny and stretcher in ambulance and secure in place.

Total time:  6 minutes or less

The test is to be performed with the same manner of professionalism and patient care expected of a working Paramedic. 

Watch a video of the testing here.