what emt course should i take

The College Board suggests that high school students planning an EMT career would benefit from taking an advanced-placement biology class along with courses in chemistry and health science. Anatomy and physiology classes in high school are recommended by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Full Answer

What classes do you need to be an EMT?

What Classes Do I Take?

• Anatomy and physiology
• Trauma management
• Cardiovascular emergencies
• EKG interpretation
• Principles of life support
• Pharmacology

What education and training is required to become an EMT?

To be eligible for an EMT training program, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent degree, and a clean criminal record. Aside from formal training, EMTs must also have keen senses, especially eyesight and color vision. Physical fitness is also necessary for this position, because EMTs may be required to lift and move people.

How much does it cost to become an EMT?

It costs between $1,000 to $2,000 to become an EMT, the bulk of the cost pertaining to the cost of getting an EMT Basic training. For paramedics, however, an associate degree will cost between $5,000 to $7,000, especially when you choose the online option.

How do you become an EMT?

In California you must:

• Meet the eligibility requirements and prerequisites for attending an EMT or Paramedic course, including Basic Life Support (BLS).
• Attend and successfully complete an approved EMT or Paramedic course.
• Take and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) EMT or Paramedic computer based exam.

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What skills do EMTs need?

What is an advanced EMT?

How long does it take to become a paramedic?

What is EMR training?

What is an EMR?

Do EMTs do procedures?

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What degree is best for EMT?

Best Degrees for EMTsEmergency Management. An emergency management bachelor's degree prepares students for careers in safety and emergency management services. ... Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Four-year bachelor's in EMS programs are designed for paramedics and EMTs. ... Public Health. ... Safety Management. ... Related articles:

What is the best way to study for EMT?

Here are 15 tips to help you not only master the material, but show what you know on that next big exam.Set a regular study schedule and stick to it. ... Specify your objectives. ... Don't try to do too much studying at one time. ... Study the most challenging information first, while you have the most drive. ... Take good notes.More items...•

Is EMT a good career choice?

Becoming an EMT or paramedic is a great career choice. Demand for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals is multiplying. The pay is relatively high for the amount of education required, and you get the satisfaction of helping others daily.

What can a basic EMT do?

Emergency Medical Technicians-Basic (EMT-B) respond to emergency calls to provide efficient and immediate care to the critically ill and injured, and to transport the patient to a medical facility.

Is the EMT test difficult?

The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians exam is a challenging test of the candidate's knowledge and skill. It is difficult to pass. However, given the nature of the work that EMS personnel perform, a difficult test is necessary to ensure quality and well-trained emergency personnel are on the road.

How do I pass the EMT written exam?

HOW TO STUDY FOR THE EMT EXAM?Keep Your Textbooks And Workbooks – Highlight definitions and any specifics that stand out, then read back over the highlighted portions until you feel confident enough in the concepts that you could teach someone else.Take the Practice Tests – Many EMT courses provide practice exams.More items...

Why do paramedics quit?

The most important reasons for leaving the profession were choosing to pursue further education and moving to a new location. A desire for better pay and benefits was a significantly more important reason for EMT-Paramedics' exit decisions than for EMT-Basics.

Where do EMTs get paid the most?

#1 – Seattle, WashingtonEMTs in Seattle make a median salary of $80,470.For some people, in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $102,900 – $103,900.Cost of Living Index (COLI): 199.The cost of living in Seattle is 26% more expensive than the average of all the cities in our study.More items...•

How long is EMT school?

one to three yearsBecoming an emergency medical technician (EMT) or paramedic typically takes one to three years, depending on your career goals and educational path. EMT training focuses on life support techniques for first-response situations, including CPR, tourniquet application, and wound treatment.

Do EMTs do stitches?

EMT basics are never allowed to give sutures or stitches and even paramedics do not receive training for this skill.

What are some disadvantages of being an EMT?

Pros and Cons of Being an EMT Summary TablePros of Being an EMTCons of Being an EMTScope for GrowthYou Might Get InjuredAbility to Keep an Eye on ThingsIntense Physical ActivityWork StabilityToo Little Time to Spend With Loved Ones and FriendsFast TrainingMentally Taxing4 more rows

Is being an EMT stressful?

Choosing a career such as being an Emergency Medical Technician can be extremely stressful; in fact it may also be one of the most stressful jobs ever. But, every job has stresses of its own kind and therefore if you give your mind and heart to it, you can become a successful EMT and eventually advance your career.

How long does it take to become an EMT?

If you worked through according to the intended timeline, it will take you approximately 26 weeks of 2-5 hours of work/studying each week.

Can you become an EMT without a certification?

However, becoming an EMT still requires some hands-on skills with in-person instructor evaluation, this course alone does not qualify you to become a certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and this course alone DOES NOT qualify you to take care of patients.

Final Verdict

If being a certified EMT is part of your career path, there are many online programs to help you get started. If you are new to the field, taking a course like NMETC or Allied Med Training will best prepare you to take the NREMT exam and get certified in a short amount of time.

Guide for Choosing the Best EMT Classes Online

If you’re trying to decide if you should take EMT classes online, it's important to be realistic about how you learn best. Some people thrive with online courses that allow them to work at their own pace, while others have a better time focusing in a classroom setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Basic EMT online classes range from $1,600 to $1,900. In addition, you usually have to pay for textbooks and online material, travel and accommodations for the skills lab portion, and application and exam fees. Advanced EMT courses can cost upwards of $4,500, while refresher courses are much less expensive at around $200.

Methodology

We looked at 10 online EMT classes available in the U.S. and compared cost, duration, accreditation, online reviews, and courses offered. If you are looking to start a career as an EMT and have no prior certification or education, then you must take a basic EMT course and prepare for the NREMT exam.

What exam do you need to take to become an EMT?

In addition to the cognitive exam, you must also take and pass a state-approved EMT psychomotor exam that is offered by your state's local training organizations or emergency medical office.

How long does it take to become an EMT?

Becoming an EMT requires training and experience that can take anywhere from six months to three years to complete.

How many questions are asked in the EMT exam?

This test is taken on a computer and consists of 60 to 110 questions that cover various aspects of an EMT's job, such as medical care, EMT operations and trauma.

What is an EMT?

EMTs provide medical attention outside of a hospital to individuals who are sick or injured. They most often respond to emergency calls in a variety of settings and transport individuals to medical facilities. Most EMTs work in ambulances and are directed to emergency situations by 911 operators. An EMT may provide their services in environments ...

Why is compassion important in EMT?

Having compassion allows an EMT to remain present and help provide comfort to their patients.

What is the role of an EMT?

An EMT's primary responsibilities are to address and deal with symptoms, illnesses and trauma by stabilizing individuals on their transport to a medical center.

Do you need to have CPR to be an EMT?

Most EMT training programs require individuals to have already completed CPR training and hold a current CPR certification. Several organizations offer both in-person and online CPR courses such as the American Red Cross.

How old do you have to be to become an EMT?

You must be 18 years of age or older. You should have completed a state-approved EMT training program. You must possess a valid CPR certificate. You may be required to pass the NREMT examination. US citizen is usually required. Candidate must be in good health. Must be fluent in English. No criminal record.

How many hours of training is required for EMS?

This training can require a minimum of 700 hours of classroom training, as well as a significant amount of field experience, but these medics can work in any setting, including airborne (helicopter) and wilderness EMS.

What is CPR certification?

CPR certification and NAEMT (National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians) certifications such as Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) will give you the skills and confidence you need to move forward in the field.

What is an EMS license?

EMS is a professional level career that requires you to become licensed as a medical professional. Licensing will vary depending on what state you are in. Here is the general EMT timeline from start to finish:

What is the EMT B?

Basic EMT: Also called EMT-B, this is an entry-level position where you learn basic life-saving skills and health care knowledge needed to provide pre-hospital care. At this level you are typically paired with a higher-level provider in ambulances, on fire trucks, or in the emergency department.

Is EMT a rewarding career?

A Rewarding Career. Working as an EMT is an extremely rewarding career. EMTs have incredibly personal interactions with patients and their families. Moreover, they have the phenomenal ability to make a positive impact in their community and to truly serve those in need.

Complete Basic EMT Training

Step one is to find a local EMT training course. To qualify for the training, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED. You’ll likely be required to take CPR course to obtain your certificate.

Pass the Exam to be Certified

Once you complete the course, you’ll need to pass the final EMT exam to get your certification. Your basic EMT training will prepare you for the test. You can get free practice tests online to ensure you’re prepared. Your EMT training program should have information on how to sign up for and take the certification test.

Considering Advanced Training

While becoming an EMT may be your goal, there are additional training courses and certifications you can take once you’ve mastered becoming an EMT and are looking for career advancement. For example, you need to be an EMT before becoming a paramedic. You may also be able to use these skills as an emergency room technician or even as a firefighter.

Find the Best Job Fit

Once you have your EMT certification, what’s the next step? You’ll want to find the right job with the right local EMT company to use your skills. One of the best ways to be matched with the right company is to apply with a staffing agency that can match your skills with the needs of medical transport, hospital, or ambulance services.

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What do I need to do after passing an EMT class?

After you have passed an EMT class, you must now pass the national licensing exam and fulfill state and county requirements. This part is usually not as difficult, especially if your EMT class has adequately prepared you.

How many hours should I spend in an EMT class?

In my experience, I had to study two hours for every hour of lecture. All in all, you should expect to spend about 350-400 hours completing an EMT class. By the way, EMT class is not cheap.

What are the negatives of being an EMT?

One of the biggest negatives about being an EMT as a pre-med is definitely the time commitment. To become an EMT, there are many hurdles that one has to deal with. First, you have to take an EMT class with an accredited school. The law makes it so that a prospective EMT has well over a hundred hours of classroom lecture.

Is a pre-med EMT a doctor?

Most pre-meds are not EMTs; instead they are volunteers at clinics or research assistants for a doctor. They therefore have limited experience in the “real world” which makes EMTs stand out in a positive way. In addition, experience as an EMT will undoubtedly prepare you for clinical rotations in medical schools.

Can an EMT be part time?

Depending on where you want to get a job, finding a job can be anywhere from easy to extremely difficult. Furthermore, many companies do not allow new EMTs to be part-time workers. Just so you know, the fact you have a final the next day is NOT a good excuse to skip work.

Should I be an EMT early on?

1. If you want to be an EMT, I would be an EMT early on. It is too hard to juggle EMT with school if you are in your latter stage of college. When you’re freshmen, life is simpler and less busy. When you are a junior, you have to worry about harder classes, applications, MCATs, etc.

How long does it take to become an EMT?

It takes approximately 120 hours of supervised training to become an EMT. This typically takes candidates between six months and one year to complete. At the end of their training, EMTs also need to complete the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam.

What does an EMT do?

While the tasks you're responsible for as an EMT may vary depending on your education level, training and certifications, there are some basic job duties you can expect to perform in this role. EMTs work alongside police officers, firefighters and other medical professionals to provide emergency care to patients.

What are the basic requirements to become an EMT?

There are some basic requirements to enroll in EMT training. The requirements include:

What is the most common educational path for an EMT?

While the educational path may vary from one EMT to the next, there are some basic steps you can take to ensure you meet the requirements to become an EMT. You can begin your journey by following these four steps:

How can I become certified as an EMT?

While the specific requirements to become certified as an EMT vary from one state to the next, candidates in most states need to pass the NREMT exam after completing an accredited training course. This national exam includes a cognitive test that candidates take online to assess how well they may respond to specific emergency scenarios.

Are there different types of EMTs?

There are several career paths you can explore as an EMT, depending on the amount of training and certifications you complete. Here are the different types of EMT roles you may pursue:

What skills do EMTs need?

EMTs need a mix of hard skills, such as technical knowledge, and soft skills, such as compassion, to excel throughout their career. Here are some important skills you can develop to become a successful EMT:

What classes do you need to be an EMT?

The College Board suggests that high school students planning an EMT career would benefit from taking an advanced-placement biology class along with courses in chemistry and health science. Anatomy and physiology classes in high school are recommended by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What do you learn in high school about EMT?

Students enrolled in an EMT training program must absorb a tremendous amount of medical information in a short period of time. Science classes in high school can increase your familiarity with the human body and how it works , which will help you pass EMT courses and licensing examinations.

Why is physical fitness important for EMTs?

Physical fitness is important because EMTs must frequently bend, twist and kneel when checking vital signs and treating fractures. Strength is needed to lift and push patients on stretchers and gurneys. At the scene of an accident, an EMT must safely perform spinal and limb mobilization without causing the patient further injury. You can improve your physical conditioning and coordination in high school by taking physical education or dance classes, participating in sports, walking to school, joining a fitness center like the YMCA and lifting weights.

How old do you have to be to become an EMT in Tulsa?

Postsecondary schools such as Tulsa Tech permit qualified high school students to take EMT training. However, graduates of EMT programs must be 18 years old to take the National Registry for EMTs (NREMT) exam, which is necessary for a state license and employment.

How many hours of training is required for an EMT?

The basic EMT course requires satisfactory completion of 100 hours or more of classroom instruction and hands-on training. The advanced EMT course entails about 1,000 hours of training. Acceptance into an EMT course may be conditioned upon proof of insurance and immunization.

What is the job of an emergency medical technician?

The challenging but gratifying duties of an emergency medical technician include saving lives, delivering babies and providing hospital transportation in response to a medical crisis. The job requires proper training along with mental and physical stamina.

What skills do EMTs need?

Skills You Need for Success 1 Physical Endurance#N#EMTs work physically demanding jobs requiring them to lift significant amounts of weight, spend long amounts of time kneeling or on their feet and contort their bodies to reach wounded individuals. They need to be physically fit to withstand the wear and tear on their bodies. 2 Problem Solving#N#No two days are the same for EMTs, meaning these professionals must be able to think on their feet and make quick decisions based on limited information. They must use these skills when deciding how to best provide emergency care to a patient. 3 Communication#N#EMTs interact with many different types of people throughout each day, and it’s imperative that they be able to communicate effectively with them – especially in stressful situations. They must also be able to clearly communicate information to hospitals, explain procedures to patients and communicate with fellow EMTs about how to proceed.

What is an advanced EMT?

Advanced EMT. After completing additional education and certification requirements, Advanced EMTs can provide all the services administered by EMTs but also possess the medical knowledge needed to offer a few advanced services while transporting patients to a hospital.

How long does it take to become a paramedic?

Paramedic. Unlike earlier qualifications, individuals hoping to work as paramedics typically need to complete a two-year degree to qualify. Once they pass certification exams, paramedics possess both basic and advanced skills and can provide extensive critical care to emergency patients.

What is EMR training?

After completing an EMR course approved by their state and passing the cognitive and psychomotor examinations, newly minted EMRs possess the skills and knowledge necessary to provide immediate, first-responder services to the individuals they serve. They can provide life-saving care with little support while waiting for other responders, but don’t possess the training to offer advanced care.

What is an EMR?

Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) After completing an EMR course approved by their state and passing the cognitive and psychomotor examinations, newly minted EMRs possess the skills and knowledge necessary to provide immediate, first-responder services to the individuals they serve.

Do EMTs do procedures?

EMTs are, like it or not, not really doing “procedures” for the most part. It’s basically first aid on steroids in a lot of ways. The procedures in the field are, for the most part, left to paramedics and EMT-Intermediates (in the few places that still have the later [also called Advanced EMTs in some places]).