What is an EMT?

Thinking about becoming an EMT? How do I get EMT certified? Is EMT school hard? Read about EMT salary, school length, training, and job projections!

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are healthcare professionals who provide immediate medical attention to individuals who are experiencing a medical emergency. EMTs play a crucial role in the healthcare system, as they are often the first responders on the scene of an emergency when someone calls 9-1-1. I know this first hand because before I was a Hospital Medicine PA, I worked as an EMT-A through my college career. I absolutely loved it, and it was a fantastic job. There are 4 levels of EMS certification: EMR (Emergency Medical Responder, EMT-Basic, EMT-Advanced (previously known as EMT-intermediate), and EMT-Paramedic. This blog post will focus on the EMT-Basic and EMT-Advanced professions and will provide you with an overview of the education requirements, job responsibilities, and skills needed to be an effective EMT.

Education Requirements: How long is EMT school?

The education requirements for becoming an EMT vary depending on the state in which you plan to work. In general, EMTs must complete a state-approved training program and pass the national certification exam known as the NREMT. The training program typically lasts 6 months to a year and includes classroom instruction, hands-on training, and clinical experience. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) plays a significant role in shaping and supporting Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in the United States. NHTSA is responsible for establishing and implementing national standards and guidelines for EMS systems, including ambulance design, equipment, and personnel training. They provide funding, research, and technical assistance to improve the quality and efficiency of EMS operations. The most recent NHTSA EMS education standards dictates that EMTs of all levels have training in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pathophysiology, public health, pharmacology, airway management, patient assessment and physical exam, building a differential diagnosis based on body systems education, documentation, resuscitation and trauma, and EMS specific operations.

There are three levels of EMT certification: EMT-Basic, EMT-Advanced, and EMT-Paramedic. A very common question is: How long does it take to become an EMT? In terms of program length, EMT-Basic is the entry-level certification and typically requires 150 hours of training. EMT-Advanced requires an additional 200 hours of training, while EMT-Paramedic requires 1,200-1,800 hours of training. All three levels cover the educational objectives as stated above, however they are covered in more detail in each subsequent tier of training. EMTs also will need certification in Basic Cardiac Life Support. Paramedics will need to obtain Advanced Cardiac Life Support. 

EMT Job Responsibilities

EMTs are responsible for providing immediate medical attention to individuals who are experiencing a medical emergency. Some of the most common duties of an EMT include:

1. Assessing the patient's condition and providing appropriate medical treatment.

2. Administering medication and performing medical procedures such as CPR, defibrillation, and airway management.

3. Transporting the patient to a medical facility and providing care en route.

4. Communicating with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and nurses, to provide ongoing care for the patient.

Traits of An Effective EMT

To be an effective EMT, there are several skills that are necessary. First and foremost, EMTs must be able to remain calm under pressure, as they often work in high-stress situations. They must also have excellent communication skills, as they must be able to effectively communicate with patients, coworkers, and other healthcare professionals.

EMTs must also be physically fit, as the job requires lifting and moving patients. They must also be able to think quickly and make sound decisions in emergency situations.

Finally, an effective EMT must be committed to ongoing training and education. The field of emergency medicine is constantly evolving, and EMTs must stay up-to-date on the latest advances in medical treatment and technology.

EMT Salary and EMT Job Projection 

The national salary and job projection for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) in the United States is promising, reflecting the critical role they play in providing pre-hospital care and saving lives. As of my knowledge cutoff in May 21, the median annual wage for EMTs was $35,470 in May 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, it is essential to note that this figure can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and employer type. The job outlook for EMTs is projected to grow 7 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is about as fast as average for all occupations. The increasing demand for emergency medical services, an aging population, and the need for quick response times contribute to the positive job prospects in this field. However, for the most up-to-date information on salaries and job projections, it is recommended to refer to the latest reports and statistics from reliable sources like the BLS.

In conclusion, EMTs play a vital role in the healthcare system by providing immediate medical attention to individuals who are experiencing a medical emergency. If you are interested in becoming an EMT, it is important to have the necessary education, skills, and commitment to ongoing training and education. With these qualities, you can become a valued member of the healthcare team and make a meaningful contribution to the lives of patients.