If you are looking into how to become an EMT there are a few essential things you should know before starting out. In fact there are 5 basic elements and information that one should be familiar with before becoming an EMT. But before we get into the 5 basic elements, let’s take a look at a few quick facts on how to become an EMT. Employment within the Emergency Medical Technician or EMT field is expected to grow much faster, and the unpaid volunteer positions are now being replaced with paid positions. EMT’s and paramedics require formal training and certification which is also based on your location, every location is different in its requirements for EMT’s.
Now that you know a few quick facts about how to become an EMT you will want to follow along with the 5 basic elements to becoming an EMT, all of which you should know ahead of time.
The overall nature of the work
- People’s lives usually depend on the quick action and care of their EMT’s, and paramedics. In an emergency situation, EMT’s and paramedics are dispatched to the scene where they will work with police and firefighters. When they arrive the nature of the job is to assess the current condition of the patient while trying to figure out whether the patient already has pre-existing medical conditions. It’s important for EMT’s to follow all protocols and guidelines as they provide emergency care and transport of the patient to the nearest medical establishment.
All about Training
- When it comes to training on how to become an EMT, the first thing you will be required to have is a high school diploma. Training is then offered at many different levels including the EMT basic course, the EMT Intermediate course, and the Paramedic course. At the basic level course you will learn skills like managing respiratory, cardiac emergencies, patient assessment, bleeding, airway obstruction, and emergency childbirth. When you move forward to the Intermediate course your training hours will vary depending on your location. It can be anywhere from 30 to 350 hours. With these training hours you will learn hands on the usage of advanced airway devices, IV fluids, and some medications. The most advanced training level is that of the Paramedic. With this level you will be trained in anatomy, physiology, as well as more advanced medical skills. Overall these programs can take up to one to two years, and will require you to pass the NREMT exam in order to become certified as a Paramedic.
All about Employment
- Becoming employed as an EMT will vary from location to location. As a paid EMT you can work with ambulance services, within local government, or even in hospitals. There are volunteer positions that allow you to work within fire departments, EMS services, or even hospitals.
The Job outlook
- The overall growth for EMT services is expected to keep rising. In actuality the EMT field is considered to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through into 2018. A lot more departments are looking for qualified EMT’s to fill their positions.
All about earnings
- The earnings of EMT’s and Paramedics vary depending on training and location. The average hourly wage of an EMT and paramedic is around $14.10.