So You Want To Be An EMT? Find Out What It Takes To Become One
When medical emergencies such as car accidents occur, an EMT (emergency medical technician) team is often the first on the scene to provide aid. As first responders, EMTs have rewarding, exhilarating, and strenuous careers. They must make split-second decisions in fast-paced settings before patients arrive at a hospital. They must also be proficient in several types of medical equipment.
Educational and Physical Prerequisites
While becoming an EMT does not require as many years of education as other healthcare professions, you must complete specialized training to earn a certificate before applying for a state license. Some aspiring EMTs attend college to receive an associate's or bachelor's degree in health or science-related subjects. Many educational institutions offer associate and bachelor's degrees in emergency medical services.
For standalone EMT certificate programs, you must complete cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification before applying.
The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs provides a state-by-state directory of EMT certificate programs. These training programs can last from a year to two years or more. EMTs who want to become paramedics complete additional training. Paramedics receive training to assist medical professionals like nurses and doctors in emergencies.
EMT Program Curriculum and Licensing
EMT training programs provide classroom and clinical instruction in biology subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and psychology. Students also receive training in medical trauma, pharmacology, and ambulance medical equipment. Other topics include technical communication, math, computer fundamentals, ambulance driving, and English composition.
The final leg of EMT training includes fieldwork, usually in internship settings.
In order to be fully licensed, aspiring EMTs must take a national certification exam administered by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). The exam includes a written and practical section. The exam is not easy, so some students sign up for EMT test prep courses to help them prepare.
After passing the exam, EMTs must obtain a state license. Some states require passing an additional exam to receive a license. Others will accept the NREMT certification as the only qualification needed for a license. In addition, many states also require EMTs to pass a criminal background check.
Workplace Environments
Popular conceptions of EMTs include depictions of health professionals working feverishly to treat patients as they speed in an ambulance to a hospital emergency room. However, EMTs can find jobs in non-hospitals settings such as college athletic programs, federal agencies like the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), private ambulance services, and professional sports teams.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for EMTs is positive, with average growth predicted through 2031.
Once an EMT clears the final hurdles of certification and licensing, they can expect to have a choice of jobs in a variety of settings.
For more info about EMT test prep, contact a local company.