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Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)provide emergency medical care to persons who are sick or injured. In addition to giving urgent medical attention, EMTs usually transport patients to medical facilities. EMTs are generally the first medical personnel on the scene when a call for help is placed. There are three categories of emergency medical technicians: EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, and EMT-Paramedic.
EMTs generally work in teams of two and respond to calls from a central dispatcher. Upon arrival, EMTs must assess the nature of the injury or illness and call for additional help if necessary. Following strict guidelines, all EMTs are authorized to initiate procedures such as opening airways, controlling bleeding, administering oxygen, and aiding with childbirth. Intermediate and Paramedic EMTs are allowed to give intravenous fluid, administer drugs both orally and intravenously, as well as provide several other advanced medical procedures.
After initial treatment is applied, victims are usually transported to the nearest medical facility. Occasionally, patients are transported by helicopter to regional centers. Upon arrival at the medical facility, patients are brought to the emergency care department where the EMTs report on the patient's status and initial care.
Education and Training
In the U.S., Emergency Medical Technicians may need the following education and training:
- one of three levels of training including EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, and EMT Paramedic
- EMT-Basic
- Training program includes 110 to 120 hours of classroom work and 10 hours of internship at a hospital emergency room. Candidates must pass a written and practical examination.
- EMT-Intermediate
- Training program typically includes an additional 35-55 hours of instruction.
- EMT-Paramedic
- Training program includes between 750 and 2,000 hours of classroom instruction.
Each subsequent level of training prepares students to administer more advance medical care. EMTs must register for certification every two years.
On the Job
Since they are usually the first on the scene, EMTs need to be able to quickly assess a situation and then determine an appropriate course of action. EMTs must be capable of working in an environment that is emotionally and physically demanding.
Math on the Job
Emergency Medical Technicians need to be able to assess a particular situation and quickly determine the type of care required. Strong logic and reasoning skills greatly enhance an EMT's ability to correctly identify the appropriate treatment. The administration of appropriate medical dosages requires solid arithmetic skills. EMTs also need to be organized and detail-oriented.
Related Careers
- firefighter
- police officer
- health care provider
- physician
- nurse
You can get more information about pursuing a career in medicine from the
High Speed Train Webring
.
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