Emergency care training can run the gamut from teaching basic life-saving skills to highly specialized trauma training. Jobs in this health care field typically provide additional educational programs for those working as first responders, paramedics, nurses, and physicians. In addition, emergency care training programs are usually available to those involved in pet care.
Training for emergency care is meant to prepare individuals to assess and treat patients experiencing life-threatening or other emergency health situations. Depending on the type of training, medical professionals may be prepared to handle anything from routine first-aid to more skilled care, such as surgery and intubations. This training is essential for those involved in medical care professions and community-based positions, such as coaching youth sports.
Perhaps the most common type of emergency care training is basic first-aid. This is appropriate for people at all skill levels, especially those preparing for entry-level medical careers. The training will generally include how to assess and treat minor injuries, such as cuts and abrasions, and the steps to take when dealing with major injuries, such as back injuries. First aid training is usually coupled with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training. This focuses on recognizing and handling cardiac and breathing emergencies.
Emergency care training beyond basic first-aid and CPR is typically reserved for professional first responders, such as paramedics and firefighters. Such advanced training allows these professionals to identify and begin treatment for life-threatening emergencies. Such treatment can include starting intravenous medications, delivering oxygen, and managing traumatic injuries until the patient can reach a hospital or other emergency facility. Some programs prepare these professionals to intubate patients if necessary and make use of treatment tools, like splints and backboards.
Nurses receive emergency training beyond that of any other emergency care professional. Their education commonly consists of classroom and clinical training over the course of several years. Emergency room nurses must be able to help transfer patients from incoming paramedic units to the emergency room of a hospital or other medical facility. They should be able to handle a variety of emergencies and make initial assessments to help physicians identify appropriate treatment options.
Physicians receive the highest level of emergency care training. This involves classroom instruction, clinical practice, and specialized training in emergency medicine. Many doctors are regularly tasked with making decisions related to saving lives in an emergency. This can include decisions related to necessary medications, exams, and surgeries.
Emergency care training is also available for those involved in pet care. This type of training can assist pet owners and pet care professionals in assessing and treating injuries and illnesses involving animals. This type of training can range from basic first-aid to in-depth training for veterinary professionals.
