Are you interested in becoming an emergency medical technician (EMT) or paramedic but don’t know where to start? Or are you already certified and looking for more training options? At EMS PRO Expo keeping emergency medical care providers up-to-date on the latest technologies and information is priority number one. Come attend the EMS PRO Expo yearly conference at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, and participate in a multitude of sessions that offer EMS training options. If you are looking for information to help you in the meantime, such as online EMT classes or local paramedic schools, check out the information below.
What are the requirements to become a paramedic or an EMT?
If you want to join the ranks of healthcare professionals in the emergency medical services field as a paramedic, the first step is to become an EMT. This usually takes around 120 to 150 hours to complete, and for most can be done in 6 months time. EMT certification requirements do vary from state to state due to laws, but in general, they cover the fundamentals of basic care.
EMT Training Requirements:
- Assessment of basic needs and care of patients
- CPR
- Bandaging
- Transportation and stabilization of patients
- Understanding basic medical terminology
- Treatment of asthma attacks and allergic reactions
- Management of airways
Paramedic education requirements are more intensive and detailed, covering topics in anatomy and physiology, pharmaceuticals and their proper application along with emergency medications. Paramedic training typically takes 2 years or around 1,800 hours, although in some states it is less.
Paramedic Training Requirements:
- Tending to burn victims
- Knowing and administering advanced emergency pharmaceuticals and medications
- Caring for infants and the elderly
- Evaluating patients trauma level
- Aiding in cases of cardiac arrest
Paramedic and EMT education training requirements PRO tip:
EMTs and Paramedics with associate and bachelor’s degrees have the opportunity to move into management positions or other advanced jobs with higher pay.
Ways to get your EMT and Paramedic certification
If you are searching for EMT or paramedic courses, checking out community colleges or local universities in your area is a great place to start. Hands-on learning and in-person training can greatly improve your skills and knowledge. If you are unable to attend these programs due to scheduling conflicts or unappealing commute times, searching for accredited online EMT training programs or paramedic courses is your next best choice.
PRO tip:
You must verify that the online program will cover certification in your state. Due to state-by-state variances, some programs might not be accepted where you live.