EMTs and paramedics are called to assist individuals who are experiencing a medical emergency, such as a stroke, heart attack, or an injury sustained from an automobile accident. They are called to the location of an emergency, often in response to a 911 call, where they quickly assess what immediate treatment is needed.
Levels of Medical Expertise
There are a variety of levels of EMTs and paramedics, the latter of which often receive more advanced training than EMTs. For example, an EMT-1 is trained to respond to respiratory, cardiac, and trauma emergencies. The EMT-2 and EMT-3 worker, also known as EMT-intermediate, have additional training that prepares them to administer intravenous fluids, use manual defibrillators, and a variety of other technologies that aid people experiencing respiratory emergencies. EMT-4 workers, or paramedics, have the highest level of training among EMTs, which includes administering certain drugs and reading electrocardiograms.New Challenges
In addition to their traditional duties, paramedics and EMTs must now be prepared to deal with emergency situations caused by terrorism. Being prepared to respond to the scene of a terrorist attack requires more coordination between EMT workers and paramedics and first responders such as police officers, aid workers, firefighters, and national guardsmen.EMT and paramedic training can prepare you for an exciting, fast-paced, and rewarding career. Find out today how you can get the training needed to be a step closer to a more satisfying job.
