How to Become an EMT by Taking the Right Steps Now

Working as an EMT is an exciting and challenging job. It also requires a fair amount of training and education. However, it is something that almost anyone can do if they are willing to put in the time and study. Follow some simple steps and you can become an EMT before you know it.

So, how do I become an EMT? To begin, there are a number of standard prerequisites that are normally required to be able to participate in EMT educational courses. Check your specific state’s requirements by browsing for local EMT training programs on the web and going through their qualifications for joining. That being said, here’s a reliable conventional guideline:

Usual Educational Requirements

• You must be 18 years or older.
• You’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Possess a current CPR certification.
• Passed an up-to-date physical examination by a doctor.
• Up to date with immunizations for Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, and MMR (measles-mumps-rubella).
• Permit the school or training organization to run a criminal background check on you.

After meeting the minimum requirements listed above, start off by seeking educational facilities in your neighborhood. What should you think about when trying to find the right EMT training courses? Generally, how much time they will take and how much they will cost. Consider, these examples below:

Education Options for EMT Training

• Community Colleges – Are a low price and effective way of getting your EMT education. Classes may take up to 4-6 months to finish up EMT basic training.
• Non-profit EMT/Paramedic Associations – These programs are frequently a good value and often have a more sped up training schedule. Chances are you will find packages that only need 5-10 weeks to finish up.
• Professional/Technical Schools – Ordinarily a more expensive option, but may allow more versatility in scheduling and class length.
• Online/Virtual Classes – Enables the most versatility in how quickly you wish to complete the courses, however there are some possible restrictions. Consult with your state’s licensure agency before starting an online school. Some states DO NOT acknowledge on-line education as valid for licensing. Moreover, be certain that your virtual training program has an alliance with a nearby hospital or ambulance service that enables you to be able to satisfy the internship criteria that your state may have.

Quite a number of states define 4 levels of EMT certification with each ever-increasing level requiring added knowledge and schooling. If you are just starting out then you will be training for EMT-b (basic), which all states recognize.

Program Breakdown for EMT basic Training

EMT basic programs are quite often categorized into classroom lecture and hands-on training (about 110 hours), on the job medical “in the field” work (around 10-12 hours), and final exam testing (6-7 hours). In class, you are likely to spend time learning about physiology and anatomy, how to identify a patient’s ailment, take care of countless medical emergencies, how to securely lift, move, transport patients, and how to use countless medical equipment. Additionally, you will get to know health, legal and ethical issues that may come up while delivering medical care. All this practicing is done in a school setting through lecture panels, simulations, and skill labs.

Additionally, you will be asked to intern or work directly with near by hospitals, ambulance services or fire departments. This is when you will finally get “real life” skills. While interning, you will get the chance to use the techniques you have studied, in real life. There’ll almost always be a checklist of successful utilization of assorted medical procedures that you’ve practiced at work that your supervisors will fill out. Finalize the checklist, work the necessary hours and your internship will be done!

EMT Certification

Once you have fulfilled your instruction and any internship expectations, you will be able to take your state’s approved certification test. A good number of states recognize certification issued by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians ( www.nremt.org ), others have their own slightly different test. Upon graduation, your school should be able to direct you on how to go about taking the test required by your state. Pass the test, apply for a license to work as an EMT in your state and your done. You are now an EMT!

Conclusion

Well, that’s it. As you have read, it is not that difficult to become an EMT. It does take some time and money, but luckily there are a fair amount of options for that. So why not start now? If the idea of giving life saving aid to others excites you, then start your EMT training today!