An Emergency Medical Technician is an emergency responder trained to provide medical services to the critically ill and injured.
The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians recognizes three levels of EMT, the first being EMT-B (Basic). The Basic EMT curriculum covers the fundamentals of medical care, CPR, bleeding control, fractures, treatment of shock, childbirth, traction, splinting and airway management.
Upon completion of the program, the graduate must take a certification examination. Regardless of the level of training, an EMT's responsibilities are governed by state regulations. CPR certification must be maintained.
Respond to emergency calls
Assessment
Render basic emergency care to adults, infants and children in
accordance to laws governing EMT-B's
Opening and maintaining airways
CPR
Control hemorrhage
Treat shock
First aid procedures
Oxygen administration
Handling emergency vehicles according to policy
Assist in childbirth, management of respiratory, cardio, diabetic,
allergic, behavioral and environmental emergencies
Work inside and outside
May be exposed to infectious diseases
May encounter violent behavior
Face life and death issues on a daily basis
Work under stress and emergency conditions
Schedules may be strenuous - 24 on and 24 off
Possess good verbal and written communication skills
Work is both physically strenuous and stressful
Great amount of standing, kneeling, bending and lifting
On call for extended periods of time
Must be emotionally stable
Requires good dexterity, agility and physical coordination
Be able to remain calm
Must react quickly
Must be able to work with a diverse population
Team player
Leads to advanced placement in an EMT program
Work available in rural and urban settings
May be employed by Emergency Medical Services, private ambulance
services, fire departments
Many EMT-B's work with volunteer fire departments and
rescue squads