The field of emergency medical services is a critical one and a career within it can be extremely rewarding. It revolves around helping people and providing life-saving medical care. You’re entering a field that has tremendous growth potential and an abundance of qualified professionals. This article will take you through the entire process needed to be an EMT or paramedic. We’ll also go over many options of training, such as the approved by the DSHS EMS course.
Understanding the function of EMTs & Paramedics
Emergency Medical Technicians Also known as paramedics or EMTs are the initial response in times of emergency. They provide immediate care. They are certified to evaluate patients, administer essential medical treatments, and take individuals safely to hospitals for further medical treatment. EMTs and paramedics play a crucial role in stabilizing patients in critical moments, making split-second decisions, and delivering compassion in times of anxiety. For more information, click How to Become EMT
Step 1: Become an EMT
For you to become an EMT you will need to successfully complete a range of educational and training courses. These can differ depending on the certification level you aim to achieve. There are three levels of EMT certification:
1. EMT Basic (EMT B) The EMT Basic certification is an entry-level certificate that will require between 100 and 150 hours of education. EMT-Bs undergo training in basic medical care including CPR as well as bleeding management and the basics of airway control.
2. EMT-Intermediate: EMTI is a level which requires more instruction. The amount of training is different from one state to another. In certain areas, this level is merged with EMT-B. In others, it takes between 200-400 hours of instruction, including increased medical expertise as well as intravenous therapy.
3. EMT-Paramedic (EMT-P) The most prestigious grade of EMT certification, EMT-P, requires extensive training, typically between 1,000 and 1,800 hours. Paramedics can perform advanced medical procedures like administering medication as well as interpreting EKGs, and performing advanced airway management.
Step 2: Pursuing paramedic certification
You must finish your EMT B or EMT I degree before becoming a paramedic. Then, you are able to join a paramedic training program that typically takes between one and two years to complete. In this rigorous instruction, you’ll learn about advanced medical topics and gain the skills and knowledge needed to manage critical situations in a professional manner.
Step 3: Exploring EMT Training Options:
You have the option of choosing among a number of EMT courses, depending on the level of your certification. Community colleges and medical trade schools generally offer EMT training for all levels of certification. They combine the classroom with hands-on experiences in clinical and field settings.
If you’re searching for a more in-depth and complete EMT program that can lead to a degree, universities and colleges could offer EMT education at the EMT-Paramedic level. These programs will provide you with more knowledge of emergency services, and an expanded perspective on medical decision-making.
Step 4: Step 4: Ensure DSHS approved EMS training:
If you’re an aspiring paramedic or EMT, it is essential that the training program chosen by you be DSHS-approved. The Department of State Health Services accepts EMS courses to ensure they are in compliance with the highest standards of competence and education. By enrolling in a DSHS-approved EMS training will ensure that you receive the best training and you will be able to meet the requirements for certification.
Paramedics and EMTs are both highly regarded professions. EMTs along with paramedics as well as other first responders play a vital roles in providing medical assistance and rescuing lives in emergency situations. To embark on this lifesaving endeavor, EMTs and Paramedics are required to complete education and training programs. Based on the level of certification required, candidates can choose from a variety of EMT training options, which include community colleges, medical trade schools and university programs.
When assessing the different training options available It is also important to make sure that your chosen EMS training program is DSHS certified. In this way you will be able to rest assured that you are receiving quality education that is up to the standards to obtain EMT as well as paramedic certificates.
As the demand for qualified emergency medical professionals continues to rise, entering the field of EMS offers abundant job opportunities and the possibility of making a an impact on the lives of those around you. It is possible to start as an EMT or progress toward paramedic status. Your commitment to providing medically critical care will pay off with a rewarding job.