How to Become an EMT

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The EMT career field is fast-paced, exciting, demanding, and integral to society. No matter where you live, whether in a large city or a rural area, EMTs are necessary and the job will keep you on your toes. So how do you become an EMT? In this blog, we will discuss some of the preliminary steps to take and will discuss how to become an EMT.

To become an EMT you must begin with basic training. This particular training will lay the foundation for other positions such as EMT Enhanced, becoming a paramedic, and more.

When going over options regarding how to become an EMT, it is best to figure out the training you must obtain and the order in which to receive that training. Usually, basic courses last about 16 weeks. This training may be given during the week, at night, or even on weekends to fit schedules. Before signing up for that first course to become an EMT, you can volunteer as a firefighter. By volunteering with a fire department or another rescue agency, you will begin to acquire skills and training you will also need in the EMT field.

An EMT's Job

EMTs or Emergency Medical Technicians, are certified medical professionals. An EMT provides basic medical care and assistance, whereas other levels of professional medics provide more care. Often, first responders such as police officers are firefighters will begin their career path the EMT training.

When you learn how to become an EMT, you will be trained to stop external bleeding, perform CPR, and will learn how to handle other medical emergencies. An EMT is often one of the first individuals to arrive at a scene. Medical professionals are often at a scene initially along with firefighters and police. There are instances when an EMT provides crucial, life-saving care, and usually transports patients to the nearest hospital.

Additional EMT Levels

When you begin to look at how to become an EMT, you must start at the very beginning of the process. Varying levels of EMT certification may be acquired and depending on what state you live in, may determine the actual name of each level of EMT certification.

The first level is EMT Basic. When you take steps to become an EMT this is the first, standard course to take. Basic EMTs have fewer responsibilities and less training overall than other levels.

This certification is the basic standard and requires fewer responsibilities and training hours than other levels. Aside from stopping external bleeding, and performing CPR, basic EMT training also trains students to make splints for broken bones.

Once you have learned how to become an EMT and are ready for the next level of training, you will attend intermediate or advanced. EMT Intermediate or Advanced requires more training hours than basic and these medics are allowed to insert IVs, intubate patients, and may be able to administer non-prescription drugs depending on the state they live in.

The next level is Paramedic which is the highest level. Often a Paramedic will have a college education in addition to EMT training. When you are looking into how to become an EMT in your state, keep in mind depending on what level you wish to achieve, you may need additional education. Paramedics respond to more serious calls and often perform manual defibrillation among other advanced tasks.

Learn How to Become an EMT

Some states allow individuals 16 and older to become a Basic EMT, however, some states do have an age requirement of 18 with a high school diploma or equivalent. To get a head start, it may be best to volunteer with a fire department or rescue team, this way you can earn additional training.

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It is also best to have the right equipment when you learn how to become an EMT. It is always advised to have an EMT jump bag. The top tools to have in that include:

• Infusion pumps and syringe drivers
• ECG monitor with defibrillator
• Incubator
• Suction unit
• Backboard or trauma board
• Bag valve mask
• Basic first aid kit

In addition, you need to make sure you have the proper attire for EMT work. This means durable clothing, that has a lot of pockets, and allows you to move freely. A good pair of tactical boots is also suggested to keep your feet happy. You never know where you will find yourself in the EMT profession. Whether rain or shine, city or country road, you need to be prepared. When you become an EMT, make sure you have pants such as LA Police Gear's Men's Stretch EMS Pants. These are super comfortable and durable. Another great pair is 5.11 Tactical's Women's EMS Pant 64301. Both of these pants offer flexibility and are long-lasting.

Tactical shirts are also the way to go when you become an EMT. Ensure that you pair your EMS pants with a tactical shirt. Often, these types of shirts are made to not only last but also be moisture-wicking and flexible. LA Police Gear has a variety of tactical shirts depending on your specific needs. Make sure when you meet your goal of becoming an EMT you have the gear you need so you can put your best foot forward.

LA Police Gear offers a wide variety of EMS boots to choose from as well as backpacks and bags for your EMT jump bag. Choose a tactical boot that is long-lasting and that offers added support for your feet. Becoming an EMT is a valuable and rewarding profession but it is also fast-paced and labor intensive. When you learn how to become an EMT, you need to make sure you have the gear you need to put that training you worked so hard for into action.