When a disaster strikes or someone falls seriously ill, the first responders are usually EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians). EMTs may work for fire or police departments, or an ambulance service, but all play a critical role in saving lives. If you want to become an EMT, you need formal EMT training and certification starting at the Basic (EMT-1) level.
Identification
An Emergency Medical Technician has the responsibility of providing immediate treatment for trauma or illness. The work requires extensive training and good physical condition, since EMTs often work under adverse and even dangerous conditions. Their task is to assess the condition of patients and stabilize them until they can be transported to a hospital. In some cases they will be in communication with physicians and administer treatment as directed. There are three levels of EMT training: Basic or EMT-1, Intermediate or EMT-2, and EMT-Paramedic.
Function
A high school diploma is normally required to begin EMT training. At the Basic EMT level, students take courses in assessing and providing emergency care for cardiac and respiratory conditions and to trauma victims. The training emphasizes developing skills and knowledge of the operation and maintenance of the equipment used. Most approved programs include experience either in the field or in emergency rooms. State certification is required, and consists of a practical skills test and a written exam.
Features
Intermediate EMT training varies from state to state, and can range from 30 to 350 hours of instruction. Students learn advanced skills using medical equipment such as intravenous administration of medications (IV). The highest level of EMT training is EMT-Paramedic. For paramedic training, courses in physiology and anatomy, along with further skills training are required. The course of study takes 1 to 2 years and is often part of a program at a community college leading to an associate's degree.
Considerations
Once EMT training is completed at each level, all states require certification. The majority use the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exams (see Resources below). A few states do have their own exams, or give you a choice of taking either the NREMT or a state exam. Normally, EMTs have to re-certify every 2 years and fulfill continuing education requirements.
Benefits
The Bureau of labor Statistics lists EMTs as a growing occupation. As of 2006, median salaries were 27,070 per year. The lowest paid 10 percent of EMTs (primarily entry-level Basic EMTs) averaged $17,300, and the highest paid 10 percent 45,280. The largest number of EMTs are employed by hospitals and ambulance companies. However, many work for police or fire departments, and receive the same benefits as firemen and policemen, including pensions. Career advancement beyond paramedic can be to physician's assistant or into operational or administrative management. For these promotions, a bachelor's degree may be required.
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