EMTs can be the difference in patient survival.
Emergency Medical Technicians, also known as EMTs, are professionals who provide initial medical care to people before those people can reach a hospital. They respond to accidents and other emergencies. Because the actions of an EMT can drastically impact a patient's odds of survival, all EMTs have to have some schooling and become certified.
EMT Levels
The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians recognizes five levels of EMT training. The first level is First Responder. They are trained to assess the situation and stabilize victims until EMTs with more training arrive. The other levels include EMT Basic, EMT I/85 Intermediate, EMT I/99 Intermediate and EMT Paramedic. These levels are important because the level you decide to pursue is ultimately what decides how long you will train as an EMT.
Time Range
Depending on which EMT level you select, you should expect to be in training between 6 to 24 months, according to the Allied Health World website. This translates to 30 to 350 course hours, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Be aware, however, that every state has its own requirements regarding minimum education requirements -- you may be able to complete training faster in some states than others. At the end of your training period, you will have a certificate, diploma or associate's degree.
Coursework
During your EMT training, you will learn complete patient assessment, respiratory management, cardiac management, use of basic EMT equipment and trauma management. You'll also learn control bleeding and perform basic life-support techniques like CPR. As you advance, you'll continue with courses such as IV and medication administration, as well as use advanced equipment like defibrillators. If you do not pass any of this coursework, you may have to retake individual classes, which may delay your certification.
Testing
After you complete your EMT training, you will have to take a competency exam to become certified. You can get your results as soon as one business day after the test is scored, but if you do not pass the exam, you'll have to wait two weeks before you can register again. The better you prepare for the exam, the more likely it is you will pass and therefore be able to move from training into an EMT position.
Continuing Education
Even after you complete basic EMT coursework and have your certification, you will have to maintain your certification through continuing education coursework. The amount of continuing education you will need will depend on what EMT level you have and the state in which you live.
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