There are four steps required to get EMT training: find a suitable school, apply for acceptance, pay the tuition fee, and complete the course work. EMT training is required to work as an emergency medical technician (EMT), paramedic, or as a patient transporter. This field is forecast to have better than average growth over the next five to ten years, as the need for access to medical services increases as the population ages.
People who want to get EMT training enjoy helping others, are calm under pressure, and are not bothered by the sight of blood. An EMT is usually the first medically trained person to the scene of an accident, and often sees people at their worst. The client may be emotionally upset, gravely ill, or physically injured, and may not be as polite as possible.
EMT training is available from a wide range of community and career colleges. The programs are typically eight to 12 months in length, with continuous enrollment. Check the accreditation status of the school before registering. An accredited school has been evaluated by an independent third party, who is responsible for checking the quality of courses against a specific standard.
The second step towards getting an EMT training is to apply for admissions to a post-secondary education program. The requirements vary, but typically include a high school diploma, with courses in English and first aid training. Candidates are often asked to complete a physical health assessment. An EMT is required to move patients, shift equipment, and load stretchers in and out of the ambulance.
Tuition is typically due before classes begin. Review the invoice provided by the school and see if it includes textbooks or related materials in the course fees. If not, be prepared to purchase these materials, in addition to the tuition. Look for scholarships, grants, and bursaries to help defray the cost of the tuition.
The courses required to get EMT training includes advanced first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), managing blood loss, stabilizing a patient, and other related courses. In addition to these classes, the EMT must learn the role of the other medical services staff, such as nurses, firefighters, and emergency room doctors.
Upon successful completion of the EMT training, candidates can look for employment opportunities in the local EMT center, or move to a different city. EMTs are also employed by patient transporting services, long-term care facilities, and other agencies responsible for transporting patients.
