As opportunities for EMT jobs continue to increase so does interest in the field. However, those considering such a career should take into consideration the amount of training and certification required.
There will be plenty of opportunities in the field as EMT jobs are expected to grow faster than normal through 2012, mainly because of the aging population, and in part because current EMTs will leave the field for various reasons.
There will be heavy competition for high-paying jobs as positions shift away from volunteer services and toward paid professionals. According to an article by the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, private ambulance services will provide the biggest number of openings, with EMT-Intermediates and EMT-Paramedics having the best chances of securing a position.
While there will be many opportunities for jobs, becoming an EMT requires plenty of training and certification. Every state requires that EMTs and paramedics become certified, with many requiring registration with the National Registration of Emergency Medical Technicians and some offering their own certification test.
EMTs at all levels are required to re-register every two years and take continuing education courses to maintain their certification. They must have correct color vision, good eyesight, basic coordination, hand-eye coordination, emotional stability and the ability to lift heavy objects.
The levels of EMT training correlate with the levels of EMTs as defined by the NREMT, including: EMT-Basic and EMT-1; EMT-Intermediate and EMT-2 and EMT-3; and EMT-Paramedic and EMT-4.
Training for each level includes:
- EMT-Basic and EMT-1 – EMTs at the basic level receive training in cardiac and respiratory resuscitation skills, traumatic injury care and injury assessment, as well as how to care for blocked breathing, heart attacks, severe bleeding, broken bones and childbirth. Coursework is supplemented with hands-on training in a hospital or emergency vehicle and students learn how to use stretchers, backboards, splints, braces and oxygen tanks. In order to become registered, students must graduate from an approved program and pass a written and practical exam.
- EMT-Intermediate and EMT-2 and EMT-3 – Students at this level typically study either EMT-Shock Trauma or EMT-Cardiac. The first teaches students to administer some medicine and start IVs, while the second teaches students about heart rhythms and how to give special medications. EMTs at this level usually undergo about 50 hours of training, including coursework on IVs, pulmonary equipment and techniques and diagnostic techniques.
- EMT-Paramedic – This is the most advanced level of certification and requires several hours of coursework and hands-on experience. Most EMTs at this level hold paid positions instead of volunteer positions.
After becoming an EMT-Paramedic, workers have several options to further their career, including becoming: directors of emergency services, EMT supervisors, doctors, nurses, dispatchers, instructors and medical equipment sales persons.
Overall, there are several opportunities available for those considering EMT jobs at various levels. And while securing those positions takes a lot of training and hard work, those that do often find themselves with in-demand and fulfilling careers.