What term describes the mentor for new paramedics in EMS?

• A. Training Supervisor
• B. Field Training Officer (FTO)
• C. Mentor
• D. Preceptor

Answer: (B)

The on‑the‑job guide who formally oversees and evaluates a new paramedic during field training is a Field Training Officer. This role pairs with the learner on actual calls, teaches hands‑on skills, monitors judgment and safety, and provides structured feedback until the learner demonstrates competency to practice independently. It’s a formal, evaluative position within the field training program, not just general mentoring or classroom-style teaching.

Training supervisor describes the broader program administrator overseeing training activities, rather than day‑to‑day field coaching. A mentor is a more general term for guidance and support without an official evaluation or sign‑off process. A preceptor can be a clinical teacher, but in EMS, the Field Training Officer is the specific role charged with evaluating progress and certifying readiness during field rotations.