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EMT and Paramedic

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EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians) and Paramedics provide immediate medical care and transportation to accident victims and others suffering acute medical problems. Paramedics have more advanced training than EMTs, and can perform more complex medical procedures.

In a typical emergency situation, EMTs and paramedics are dispatched by a 911 operator. At the scene, they work with police and fire personnel. The role of EMTs and paramedics is to determine the patients’ condition and provide emergency care. When a patient needs to be transported to a hospital or other facility, one EMT or paramedic drives while another monitors the patient and provides care. Upon arrival, they transport the patient to the emergency department, and report pertinent information to the emergency room staff. They may also be in contact with physicians before and during transportation of patients.

You must have a high school diploma to train to become an EMT or paramedic. All states require certification, most with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) although some states have their own systems.

The NREMT certifies emergency medical care providers at four skill levels:

  • First Responders – Provide basic emergency medical care. Many police and fire personnel have this certification.
  • EMT-Basic (EMT-1) – Cares for patients, under medical direction, at accident scenes and during transportation. Manages respiratory, cardiac, and trauma emergencies.
  • EMT-Intermediate (EMT-2 and EMT-3) – More advanced training. Can administer intravenous fluids, use manual defibrillators, and apply advanced airway techniques and equipment for respiratory emergencies.
  • EMT–Paramedics (EMT-4) – Most advanced training. May give drugs orally and intravenously, interpret electrocardiograms, and perform endotracheal intubations.

Many EMTs and paramedics work for private ambulance services. Fire departments, public ambulance services, emergency medical services, and hospitals also employ EMTs and paramedics.

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Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-2007 Edition; Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor