How to become an emergency medical technician

Is becoming an emergency medical technician right for me?

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Overview
What do emergency medical technicians do?

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How to become an Emergency Medical Technician

Becoming an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) involves completing a formal training program and obtaining certification. Here are the general steps to become an EMT:

  • Meet Eligibility Requirements: Most EMT training programs require candidates to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Complete an EMT Training Program: Enroll in an accredited EMT training program, which can be found at community colleges, technical schools, or EMS training institutions. EMT training programs vary in length and structure but generally include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. EMT-Basic training programs typically last several weeks to a few months.
  • Pass the National Registry Exam: Upon completion of the EMT training program, you must pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification exam. The NREMT exam assesses your knowledge and skills in areas such as patient assessment, airway management, trauma care, and medical emergencies.
  • Obtain State Licensure: After passing the NREMT exam, you must apply for state licensure or certification in the state where you plan to work as an EMT. Each state has its own requirements for EMT licensure, which may include additional exams, background checks, and documentation of training.
  • Maintain Certification and Licensure: EMTs must maintain their certification and licensure by meeting continuing education requirements and renewing their credentials periodically, typically every two to three years. This may involve completing refresher courses, continuing education credits, or skills assessments.
  • Consider Advanced Training: Some EMTs choose to pursue additional training and certification to become Advanced EMTs (AEMTs) or Paramedics (EMT-Ps). Advanced training programs build upon the skills and knowledge acquired at the EMT-Basic level and allow EMTs to provide more advanced medical care and interventions.

Helpful Resources
Emergency medical technicians can benefit from a variety of resources to support their training, certification, continuing education, and professional development. Here are some helpful resources for EMTs:

  • National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT): The NREMT is responsible for certifying EMTs and administering certification exams. Their website provides information on certification requirements, exam preparation materials, and resources for maintaining certification.
  • National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT): NAEMT is a professional association that offers resources, advocacy, and continuing education opportunities for EMTs and other prehospital care providers. They provide access to online courses, webinars, conferences, and publications relevant to EMT practice.
  • American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP): ACEP is a professional organization for emergency medicine physicians, but it also offers resources and educational opportunities for EMTs and other EMS providers. Their website features guidelines, protocols, and educational materials on emergency care.
  • State EMS Agencies: Each state has its own EMS agency responsible for regulating EMS providers, licensing EMTs, and overseeing EMS training programs. State EMS agencies often provide resources, guidance, and information on state-specific requirements for EMT certification and licensure.
  • EMS1: EMS1 is a leading online resource for EMS professionals, offering news, articles, training resources, and product reviews related to prehospital care. EMTs can access a wide range of content on topics such as patient care, EMS management, and career development.
  • Textbooks and Reference Materials: There are many textbooks and reference materials available for EMT training and education, covering topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical emergencies, trauma care, and EMS operations. Popular textbooks include "Emergency Care" by Daniel Limmer et al. and "Nancy Caroline's Emergency Care in the Streets" by Nancy Caroline.