Health Career: Emergency Medical Technician (EMTs)
Who are EMTs, and what do they do?
EMTs help treat people who need emergency medical care. They have different levels of responsibility depending upon their educational background and experience.
Following strict guidelines, all EMTs (including those with the least amount of education and training, EMT-Basics) can follow emergency care procedures, which include restoring people's breathing, controlling their bleeding, administering oxygen and treating for shock. Those with more advanced training, including EMT-Intermediates and EMT-Paramedics, may work on ambulances under a physician's supervision. EMT-Dispatchers respond to emergency calls and send ambulances to sites that require emergency medical care.
How do EMTs typically spend their workday?
As an EMT, you will generally work for ambulance or rescue services or fire, police, safety or health agencies. This is an active career choice, in that EMTs respond to all types of emergencies including natural disasters. These professionals may work long hours and under stressful conditions. For example, EMTs respond to an emergency call for people who have been injured in a fire. You will need to immediately travel to the scene, analyze the victims' injuries and quickly provide the appropriate treatment.
What does it take to be a good EMT?
Do you thrive under pressure and want to help provide medical support in emergency situations? Then you should considering training to become an EMT. As an EMT, you should have good people skills and enjoy working as part of a team. You should also be patient, compassionate and be able to handle stress well.
What are some health-related jobs that are similar to that of an EMT?
Athletic trainer, EKG technician, licensed practical nurse.
Related links and helpful information:
- National Association of EMTs
- Journal of Emergency Medical Services
- CollegeBoard.com - Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics
