what are the requirements for emt basic

In order to be eligible to be certified as an EMT-Basic, a person must:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Abstain from the abuse of drugs which impairs professional judgment and/or practice
• Be free of any physical or mental impairment or disease which could reasonably be expected to impair the ability to be an EMT, or which could reasonably be expected to ...

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Full Answer

What are the educational requirements to be an EMT?

• Important Facts About This Occupation
• EMT-Basic. If you want an entry-level position as an EMT, you'll need to complete a one to two semester EMT-basic training program.
• EMT-Intermediate. An EMT-intermediate program is for currently licensed EMTs. ...
• Paramedic. ...
• Licensure Info. ...
• Continuing Education. ...
• Job Outlook. ...

What skills are needed to be an EMT?

What Personality Traits and/or Skills Should You Have to Be an EMT?

• Ability to stay calm under pressure. EMTs find themselves in surprising situations. ...
• Ability to communicate clearly. ...
• Personable and friendly attitude. ...
• Physical stamina and strength. ...
• Quick reflexes and judgment. ...

What are the job requirements for an EMT?

Other important skills and qualifications for EMTs include:

• The ability to work long hours without lowering the quality of care they provide
• The ability to provide care in stressful situations
• Problem-solving skills
• Critical thinking skills
• Situational awareness
• Stress management skills

What education and training is needed to become an EMT?

To become an EMT follow these steps: 1. Finish basic education requirements. Aspiring EMTs must have a high school diploma or a GED certificate to be eligible for this profession. If you have not completed high school or have missing courses needed to obtain a diploma, consider studying for and taking the GED. 2.

Is EMT basic exam hard?

The NREMT is a Difficult Test The average first-time pass rate in 2020 was 67% for EMTs and 70% for paramedics.

What are 5 skills that would be important for an EMT?

While technology has improved and streamlined emergency care, here are the five essential skills needed for all paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs).Teamwork. ... Ability to navigate challenging situations. ... Think creatively. ... Mental toughness. ... Situational awareness.

What qualities does an EMT need?

Important QualitiesCompassion. EMTs and paramedics must be able to provide emotional support to patients in an emergency, especially patients who are in life-threatening situations or extreme mental distress.Interpersonal skills. ... Listening skills. ... Physical strength. ... Problem-solving skills. ... Speaking skills.

Can basic EMTs intubate?

In most areas of the United States, out-of-hospital endotracheal intubation is performed by paramedics and nurses. However, in many EMS systems, patients in respiratory or cardiac arrest are treated initially, or sometimes entirely, by EMTs trained at a basic level (basic EMTs, or EMT-Bs).

Is being an EMT hard?

EMT work is not easy. It's physically demanding. It's mentally demanding. And it's even spiritually demanding, you're going to see things that are genuinely distressing as part of your work.

How do you know if EMT is right for you?

10 Signs an EMT Career is Right for YouExcellent Bedside Manner. ... Good Communication Skills. ... Psychological Stability. ... Exceptional Social Skills. ... Compassion / Empathy. ... Diplomacy. ... Good Physical Condition. ... Dependability.More items...•

How long is EMT school?

one to two yearsThe EMT certificate program typically takes one to two years to complete, and prepares students to pass the licensing examination in their state.

What are the benefits of being an EMT?

The Pros of Being an EMTLearn Useful Skills. ... Work Stability. ... It's a Rewarding Career. ... Variety in Your Work. ... Plenty of Career Advancement Opportunities. ... Teamwork. ... Honest Salary.

What is the difference between an EMT and a paramedic?

Paramedics are health care professionals who often respond to medical emergencies, and they can provide advanced medical care in these situations. They typically have more training than an EMT and may perform more advanced or technical duties.

Can EMT give injections?

EMTs aren't allowed to use any treatment that breaks the skin. There are a few exceptions, like giving an epinephrine injection to someone having a severe allergic reaction. Paramedics, however, often perform more invasive procedures like starting medication through a tube that goes into a vein, also called an IV.

Do EMTs use needles?

EMT training includes CPR, providing oxygen, giving glucose to diabetics and treating allergic reactions or asthma attacks, UCLA says. With exceptions such as using an auto-injector for allergy treatment, EMTs can't use syringes or break the skin for treatment.

What medications can an EMT basic administer?

Medications authorized for administration by EMTs are:Activated Charcoal.Albuterol.Aspirin.Epinephrine, 1:1,000 via EpiPen® or vial.Nitroglycerin (Tablet or Spray)Oral Glucose Gel.Oxygen.Tylenol.

What are the responsibilities of an EMT?

EMT Duties and Responsibilities Provide first-aid treatment, such as bandaging wounds. Provide life support care, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), when needed. Assess a patient's conditions and provide initial treatment. Determine whether a patient needs to go to an ER or a trauma center.

What is the goal of an EMT?

Emergency Medical Technicians-Basic (EMT-B) respond to emergency calls to provide efficient and immediate care to the critically ill and injured, and to transport the patient to a medical facility.

What do interpersonal skills mean?

Interpersonal skills are the behaviors and tactics a person uses to interact with others effectively. People use interpersonal skills all the time when dealing with others, whether in the workplace, in social situations, or within a family.

How many shirts do you need to wear to be an EMS student?

You should be in uniform on the first day of class. You will obtain your uniform through the bookstore. You should receive two shirts and one pair of pants as part of you student fees. You should also receive an EMS student kit, which includes equipment you will use every day in the program.

Can you get TB before a chest xray?

Tb or PPD: Tb’s are an annual vaccination. You can either get a standard Tb test (2 step) or a Tb gold blood draw. If you have tested positive for Tb before and have a chest x‐ray you may turn that in, or if you have to get a chest x‐ray, please provide the documentation for that.

Is Health 1001 required for EMT?

Please note: Health 1001 is a required co-requisite for the EMT Basic coursework. You can either register for the course, or complete the credit-for-prior-learning (CPL) form to be awarded credit for your existing CPR credential. Locate the CPL form here.

How many hours of continuing education do you need to become an EMT?

To be recertified, EMTs at all levels must complete 72 hours of continuing education or pass a competency exam. If you choose to go the education route, many schools offer EMT and paramedic refresher courses to help you meet these requirements.

What is the best training for an EMT?

Paramedic. The most advanced training for an EMT is a paramedic program. Through labs and clinical experiences, you'll cover advanced treatment procedures for patients suffering from burns, substance abuse, shock or allergic reactions. Programs may award a two-year associate's degree.

What is an EMT intermediate?

An EMT-intermediate program is for currently licensed EMTs. You'll receive the advanced training needed to treat pregnant women, children, patients with behavioral disorders, and the elderly. You'll also learn how to administer intravenous (IV) fluids and medications. For students interested in becoming a paramedic, you can go on to degree or fast-track programs.

What is the difference between EMT and EMT-intermediates?

Your specific job duties will depend on the amount of training you've completed and your certification level. EMT-basics can assess and manage cardiac, respiratory and trauma emergencies, while EMT-intermediates can do all this as well as administer intravenous fluids and some medications.

What is an EMT job?

Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) spend their days and nights helping critically ill or injured patients get the immediate care they need. You'll need to think on your feet and stay calm under pressure to be successful in this field. If this job description sounds ideal, read on to learn about the educational requirements to work as an EMT.

What is an emergency medical technician?

Emergency medical technicians provide life support to ill or injured patients while they're en route to an acute care facility, such as a hospital. In this field you may need to manage severe bleeding, broken bones, cardiac problems and breathing issues.

How much do EMTs make in 2019?

The demand for EMTs is expected to rise, as the baby boomer generation grows older. Also, as hospitals become more specialized, patients are frequently transferred from one facility to another for treatment, resulting in a need for more emergency medical technicians. The BLS also reported that EMTs and paramedics earned a mean annual wage of $38,830 in 2019.

What color is the map for EMT?

The states that have updated information on how to become an EMT are darker blue on the map and become red when you hover over them. You can also find the EMT training pages in a grid below if you don’t want to use the map. Each state can set its own requirements for EMT training, school requirements, EMT certification and state license ...

Is the EMT map complete?

The map is not complete… yet, only the dark states have EMT training pages linked to them so far, but it’s a good start.

EMT Experience and Healthcare Internships Abroad

Working with patients as an EMT is a great way to get healthcare experience, especially if you’re interested in going into a medical career.

EMT Requirements

There are six main EMT requirements. As we get into the details of how to become an EMT, we’ll cover the ins and outs for each of these EMT requirements.

How to Get Into an EMT Training Program

When learning about how to become an EMT, you’ll usually see the first step listed as taking an EMT training course. However, in order to enroll in an EMT training program, you’ll need to satisfy a few requirements.

How to Become an EMT: State-Certified EMT Training

All states require you to successfully complete an accredited EMT training program to become licensed.

NREMT Exam or State EMT Exam

In order to become a licensed EMT, you need to pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam or state equivalent.

What Is on the EMT Psychomotor Exam?

The psychomotor exam (or “practical exam”) is an in-person evaluation of your ability to perform as an EMT.

Obtain EMT Licensure

After you’ve completed your training and passed both the cognitive and psychomotor exams, you’re ready to apply for licensure.

What exam do you need to take to become an EMT?

In addition to the cognitive exam, you must also take and pass a state-approved EMT psychomotor exam that is offered by your state's local training organizations or emergency medical office.

How long does it take to become an EMT?

Becoming an EMT requires training and experience that can take anywhere from six months to three years to complete.

What does an EMT do?

EMTs provide medical attention outside of a hospital to sick or injured individuals. They most often respond to emergency calls and transport individuals to medical facilities. Most EMTs operate out of ambulances and are directed to emergency situations by 911 operators.

What is the EMT exam?

This exam tests your ability to perform a wide variety of emergency skills such as cardiac arrest management, bleeding control, joint dislocation and bone fracture immobilization and supplemental oxygen administration. Your state's EMT office should be able to inform you where you can take this test and what is required to pass.

How many questions are asked in the EMT exam?

This test is taken on a computer and consists of 60 to 110 questions that cover various aspects of an EMT's job, such as medical care, EMT operations and trauma.

How much will the number of EMTs grow in 2029?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of EMTs and paramedics is projected to grow 6% between 2019 and 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Both a growing and aging population will require more emergency services.

Why is compassion important in EMT?

Having compassion allows an EMT to remain present and help provide comfort to their patients.

What is the job of an EMT?

EMT Certification Requirements. Working as an EMT can be incredibly rewarding if you long to help those who are unable to help themselves. As an EMT, you will provide health support to individuals of all ages who are not yet at the hospital. This could include stabilizing them, providing life-sustaining support and transporting them.

How to study for a mental health test?

First, you should certainly study plenty for your test, but you should refrain from over studying especially the day before the test. Second, focus on certain words in the test that let you know that the situation is critical, such as words indicating a problem with the patient’s airway or an altered mental status.

Do you need to take an EMT course?

Although many of your runs as an EMT will be for routine everyday needs, such as transporting nursing home patients to appointments, you will certainly have some trips that stretch you in your knowledge, skills and confidence levels. That is why the state requires you to complete a state-approved Emergency Medical Technician course and to pass the national examination before you begin providing this type of care.

How many attempts to pass EMT exam?

Candidates are given a total of six opportunities to pass the EMT cognitive examination, provided all other requirements for National EMS Certification are met. After three attempts, candidates must submit official documentation verifying completion of remedial training.

What is the EMT exam?

You must also successfully complete a state-approved Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) psychomotor examination. Speak with your instructor or State EMS Office about the format and logistics of completing a state-approved Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) psychomotor exam. Emergency Medical Technician psychomotor examinations are not administered ...

What is an emergency medical technician?

Emergency Medical Technicians are a critical link between the scene of an emergency and the health care system.

What is the passing standard for a cognitive exam?

The passing standard is defined by the ability to provide safe and effective entry level emergency medical care. Based on the most recent practice analysis, the National Registry Board approves a cognitive exam test plan.

What is the EMT cognitive test?

The National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) cognitive exam is a computer adaptive test (CAT). The number of items a candidate can expect on the EMT exam will range from 70 to 120. Each exam will have between 60 to 110 ‘live’ items that count toward the final score.

What is EMT test plan?

A test plan is a blue-print that tells the computer testing software how to build a candidate's exam. The table below indicates what percent of the test will focus on each topic area.

Is the EMT exam administered by the National Registry?

Emergency Medical Technician psychomotor examinations are not administered by the National Registry. All EMT psychomotor exams are administered by either the State EMS Office or at the training institution (with approval and oversight provided by the State EMS Office).

What is the EMT basic curriculum?

The curriculum, Emergency Medical Technician-Basic: National Standard Curriculum, is the cornerstone of EMS prehospital training. In addition, the new curriculum parallels the recommendations of the National EMS Education and Practice Blueprint. The EMT-Basic curriculum is a core curriculum of minimum required information, to be presented within a 110-hour training program. It is recognized that there is additional specific education that will be required of EMT-Basics who operate in the field, i.e. ambulance driver training, heavy and light rescue, basic extrication, special needs, and so on. It is also recognized that this information might differ from locality to locality, and that each training program, or system should identify and provide special training requirements. This curriculum is intended to prepare a medically competent EMT-Basic to operate in the field. Enrichment programs and continuing education will help fulfill other specific needs for the EMT-Basic's education.

What is medical direction in EMS?

Medical direction of the EMT-Basic is an essential component of prehospital training, and thus is included in this revised EMT-B curriculum. Physician involvement should be in place for all aspects of EMS training programs, specifically for every ambulance service/rescue squad. On-line and/or off-line medical direction must be in place to allow for EMT-Basics to carry and assist with the administration of medications to patients. Quality improvement is also a required component of EMS training. The role of medical direction is paramount in assuring the provision of highest quality prehospital care. Medical Directors should work with individuals and systems to review prehospital cases and strive to achieve a sound method of continuous quality improvement.

When was the last revision of the EMT-Ambulance?

The last revision of the EMT-Ambulance: National Standard Curriculum occurred in the early 1980s with a completed course published in 1984. The current revision came about as a result of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) January 1990 Consensus Workshop on Emergency Medical Services Training Programs. Participants discussed the national training curricula needs of Emergency Medical Service (EMS) providers. Using a nominal group process, the participants identified the top priority needs for EMS training in the United States. The top priorities identified at that meeting led to issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP) by NHTSA to revise the EMT-Ambulance Curriculum based upon the input provided by many national EMS organizations and representatives at the consensus workshop. The following priorities from the 1990 consensus workshop recommendations played a directing role in the revision of this EMT-Basic Curriculum: ! Review and development of a blueprint/model and core curriculum for each provider level, based upon task analysis focusing on field impact (evaluating positive/negative outcomes) and the most utilized knowledge and skill areas. Identify "need to know" versus "nice to know" content. Conduct an analysis of interventions and outcomes for both the patient and the care provider. (What are we really doing in EMS? What's making a difference? Define what we want to do). ! Establish a Physician Board to review and approve all medical curriculum content. ! Emphasize an assessment-based format rather than a diagnostic-based format for all levels and all ages. ! Ensure that there is adequate focus on primary skills of assessment and ABCs in all provider levels (with emphasis on airway). ! Include an objective assessment of all published studies in peer journals when revising curricula. ! Emphasize rescuer and patient safety components, including infection control, in all curricula.

How often do you need to renew your EMT certification?

Emergency Medical Technician Recertification Information. Nationally Registered EMTs (NREMT) are required to renew their certification every two years. NREMTs can recertify by either taking the cognitive examination or by completing continuing education. Note: We encourage you to reference the specific license renewal requirements ...

What does "active status" mean for EMT?

Active status means the EMT is 'actively' working and providing patient care. To renew with an 'active status', EMTs are required to be affiliated with an EMS Agency or Service. An inactive status is designated for Nationally Certified EMS Professionals who are currently not providing patient care at their certification level.

What is an inactive EMT?

Inactive status is not for those unable to obtain and meet the educational requirements or those who have had limitations or revocation of a health care license. Registrants who request inactive status at the EMT level do not need to obtain verification of skills from their Training Officer/Supervisor.

How long does a recertification cycle last?

After a recertification application is approved, the new expiration date will be two years after the current expiration date listed on the individual's account.

How many hours of distributive education are required for EMS?

A maximum of 10 hours of distributive education may be used to meet the 10 hour requirement. (*Distributive Education (DE) is a method of delivering EMS education where the educator and student are not able to interact in real time. Examples include online courses, journal article reviews, and videos.)

How many hours of EMS training is required?

You may use any state or Commission on Accreditation for Pre-Hospital Continuing Education (CAPCE) approved EMS–related education to fulfill these requirements. A maximum of 7 hours of distributive education may be used to meet the 10 hour requirement.

What is not actively treating patients at their certification level?

are not actively treating patients at their certification level but are involved as educators, administrators or regulators; are unable to actively provide patient care for any variety of reasons - such as, moving, illness, pursuit of education, family responsibilities, etc.

Overview of An EMT

EMT-Basic

• If you want an entry-level position as an EMT, you'll need to complete a one to two semester EMT-basic training program. Through coursework and labs, you'll learn how to perform patient assessment procedures, such as recording pulse, breathing rate and temperature. You'll also learn how to use oxygen tanks and nebulizers, stabilize injured patients...

See more on learn.org

EMT-Intermediate

Paramedic

Licensure Info

Continuing Education

Job Outlook