Emergency medical services (EMS), a vital and noble profession, offers the opportunity to earn a living the saving of lives and providing critical care. If you’re considering being an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or upgrading to the prestigious job of a Paramedic then you’ll be stepping into the field with great potential for growth and a high demand for highly skilled professionals. In this post, we’ll lead you through the process to become an EMT and paramedic, exploring the many training options available that include a DSHS accredited EMS training course.
Understanding the Role of EMTs and Paramedics:
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and paramedics, also known as first responders, provide immediate medical care in the event of an emergency. They are trained to assess patients, administer medical treatments, and transport patients safely to hospitals for further medical treatment. Paramedics and EMTs are vital for stabilizing patients during critical situations, making split-second decision as well as providing caring care during times of distress.
Step 1: Becoming an EMT
To be an EMT you’ll have to complete a variety of education and training courses. They will differ based on the level of certification you wish to achieve. There are three levels to EMT certification:
1. EMT Basic (EMT B) EMT Basic (EMT B): This is an entry-level certificate that will require between 100 and 150 hours of instruction. EMT-Bs are certified to provide basic medical treatment which includes CPR as well as bleeding control and basic airway management.
2. EMT-Intermediate: This is a level which requires more education. The amount of training needed varies from state to another. It is possible to combine this level with EMT B in certain places, but it may also require 200-400 hours of training. It also includes an intravenous therapy and a broader range of medical skills.
3. EMT-Paramedic (EMT-P): The highest stage of EMT certification, EMT-P, is the most advanced level of training and typically between 1,000 and 1,800 hours. Paramedics can perform advanced medical procedures including administering medication, interpreting EKGs and advanced airway management.
Step 2: Pursuing paramedic certification
You must complete your EMT B or EMT I stage before you can be paramedic. After that, it is possible to join a paramedic training course, which can take about one to two years to complete. This comprehensive program will cover advanced medical concepts, and will equip you with the necessary skills and expertise to deal with critical circumstances independently.
Step 3. Exploring EMT Training Options:
When it comes to EMT training, you have various options dependent on the level of certification that you are aiming to achieve. Community colleges and medical trade schools usually offer EMT training at all levels of certification. These programs integrate classes with hands-on training in clinical and field settings.
Schools and universities provide EMT programs at the level of EMT/Paramedic in case you’re seeking an in-depth and comprehensive EMT program that can lead to the degree of a college. These programs will provide you with an in-depth understanding of emergency medicine and allow you to make better medical decisions and provide care for patients.
Step 4: Step 4: Ensure DSHS certified EMS training:
If you’re aspiring to become EMTs and paramedics, it’s essential to make sure that the training program you choose is DSHS approved. The Department of State Health Services accepts EMS courses to ensure that they adhere to the highest standards for competency and training. By enrolling in a DSHS approved EMS training course, you can rest assured that you are receiving top-notch instruction and meeting the necessary requirements for certification.
Paramedics and EMTs have highly respected careers. EMTs and Paramedics serve as first responders, and play an important role in saving and providing medical assistance in the event of an emergency. To embark on this lifesaving adventure, prospective EMTs and paramedics need to complete the necessary training and education programs. The EMT certification process can be completed in the community college, medical trade school, or a university depending on the level of certification desired.
When considering training options, it’s essential to confirm that the selected EMS training course is DSHS accredited. By doing so, you can be confident that you’re receiving a high-quality education that is up to the standards for EMT and paramedic certification.
The demand for skilled emergency medical professionals rises, EMS provides a wealth of job opportunities and an opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. Whether you start as an EMT Basic or to become a paramedic, your commitment to providing vital medical care will pay off with the satisfaction of a rewarding and purpose-driven career in emergency medical services.
