How Long Does It Take To Become An EMT?

The time it takes for you to become an EMT will vary on the level of emergency medical technician that you want to become. Some certificate programs prepare you to take a licensing examination. These programs can be as short as four weeks on an accelerated basis. Other programs take as long as two to three years to complete and culminate in an associate’s degree.

EMTs are often among the first responders to the site of a medical emergency. This includes car accidents, natural disasters and even crimes. Emergency medical technicians and paramedics are responsible for providing emergency medical care to injured patients in the field. They are also responsible for transporting them to the hospital to receive treatment for their injuries. Depending on the type of employment that the emergency worker has, the duties will also vary. The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians  will offer certification  at five different levels:

1. First Responder

2. EMT-Basic

3. EMT-Intermediate 85

4. EMT-Intermediate 99

5. Paramedic

In addition to having national certification, each state or region offers an alternative way to be certified. The course work in order to become an EMT-Basic can be completed in as little as three weeks. Some programs are a little longer and may take anywhere from 8 to 11 weeks to complete. The programs teach you to manage cardiac emergencies, respiratory trauma, fractures, and patient assessment procedures. You’ll also learn how to deal with fractures, airway obstructions, and emergency child birth. Once you complete the EMT-Basic program, you’ll earn a certificate from the educational facility. You will also be required to pass a national examination that is administered by your state.

In order to become an EMT-Intermediate 85/99, you’ll be required to complete anywhere from 30 to 350 hours of training. You’ll learn advanced skills that include using intravenous fluids, advanced airway devices, and medications. Often, you’ll need to complete a clinical component in addition to coursework and lectures. Completing the EMT-intermediate program will earn you a certificate. The programs to become a paramedic will require even more coursework in physiology, anatomy, and patient care. You will be studying anywhere from 2 to 4 hours in order to become a paramedic.

Emergency medical technicians and paramedics work as respondents in a pre hospital setting. They work with the ambulance trucks and understand all the skills necessary in saving a life. Emergency medical technicians work with technical live saving equipment, which includes electrocardiograms, monitors, medicine administering tools, and end tracheal intubation systems. In order to prepare for this kind of training, you must already have a high school diploma or a GED.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that the average wage for a paramedic was approximately $15 an hour. This does not include overtime or any bonuses. It also notes that over twenty-five percent of paramedics are covered by union contracts. Work environments that are typical for paramedics include emergency medical services, hospitals, and ambulance companies.

Job prospects for emergency medical technicians and paramedics are very favorable. A lot of job openings arise from growth and the need to replace workers who have left the field. Full time positions are opening all across the country. Competition will be greatest in jobs involving local government, police, fire, and independent third service departments. Those who have advanced education and experience should enjoy the most favorable job prospects. Earnings for emergency medical workers are anywhere from $30,000 to $50,000 a year or more.

Because of the rise in the aging baby boomer population, the demand for EMTs and paramedics will be steadily increasing in the next coming years. This results in more patients needing to be transferred to medical facilities that are able to treat them best. Most patients have to be transferred by ambulance, so that their condition can be monitored en route to the hospital. Therefore, the demand for emergency workers and paramedics is bound to grow, ensuring that there are always plenty of job openings.