If you’ve ever watched a television show about first responders or been at the scene of an accident, you may have heard the term ‘EMT.’ ‘EMT’ stands for Emergency Medical Technician, and these Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals have the skills and training necessary to help in emergency or life-threatening situations.
These professionals undergo rigorous training, test prep for the EMT exams, and more to provide care for their communities. This job is intense, with many wondering how much sleep EMTs get when they often work twenty-four-hour shifts!
EMTs: What They Do
EMTs are not the same as paramedics. They are just the first rung in the ladder of a career in EMS. Many professionals start as EMTs, work their way up to Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT), and then earn their credentials to become paramedics.
It can be difficult to describe just what EMTs do because their role is so adaptable, and their day-to-day varies based on the calls they respond to. They are mainly responsible for first-response treatment for patients, assisting in patient transport, working with other healthcare professionals, and more.
They typically start their shift by checking in at their base, readying the ambulance, and receiving updates before the shift regarding weather conditions, ongoing incidents, and more. Once their shift is in full swing, they respond to 911 emergency calls, conduct assessments, give care to patients, and coordinate the next steps with other medical professionals on their team.
EMTs assist during patient transport by providing continuous care, monitoring the patient, and ensuring their stability. Once they reach the end of their shift, EMTs are responsible for writing reports about each patient they care for, filing paperwork, and restocking and cleaning the ambulance and their equipment.
EMT Average Salary
The average EMT salary varies by state and even city. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage for an EMT ranges between $15 to $26. According to Glassdoor, EMT salaries can range from $47,000 to $84,000 per year.
The number of hours an EMT has worked and their prior experience can also impact their annual salary.
EMT Certification
EMTs must complete an accredited EMT training course that has a minimum of 170 hours of training. You do not need to have previous medical experience to begin training as an EMT. Most EMT programs require you to be at least eighteen years old before starting the program, even if your state has a lower or no minimum age requirement to become an EMT.
Aside from passing an accredited EMT course, EMTs must have a high school diploma or GED, have current CPR and Basic Life Support certifications, and to pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians’ (NREMT) knowledge exam and their state’s skills exam.
Prepare for a Career in EMS With The Paramedic Coach
EMTs play a critical role in EMS and are responsible for saving lives every day. This career has a lot of potential for growth, is incredibly rewarding, and makes a difference in your community.
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