Emergency medical services are an essential one, and a career in it can be rewarding. It revolves around saving and providing life-saving care. If you are considering being an Emergency Medical Technologist (EMT) or moving up to the esteemed job of a paramedic then you’ll be joining a career with high growth prospects and a need for highly skilled professionals. In this post, we’ll take you through the steps needed to become an EMT or paramedic, examining the many training options available that include a DSHS approved EMS training course.

Understanding the function of EMTs & Paramedics

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and paramedics are first responders who offer immediate medical assistance in emergency situations. They are certified to evaluate patients, administer vital medical treatments, and take patients in a safe manner to medical facilities for treatment. EMTs and paramedics play an essential role in stabilizing patients in critical times, making split second choices, and providing caring care during times of anxiety. For more information, click Steps to become a Paramedic

Step 1: Becoming EMT

In order to become an EMT you’ll have to complete a variety of education and training programs. These can differ depending on the degree of certification you aim to achieve. Three levels of EMT certification are available:

1. EMT-Basic (EMT-B) EMT-Basic (EMT-B): This is the first-level certification that will require between 100 and 150 hours of education. EMT-Bs are trained to provide medical basics such as CPR, bleeding control and airway management.

2. EMT-Intermediate is a level which requires more instruction. The amount of training is different from one state to another. In some states, this degree is combined with EMT-B. In other places the course can vary from 200 to 400 hours, which includes advanced medical expertise, intravenous therapy, and other expanded skills.

3. EMT-Paramedic (EMT-P): The highest level of EMT certification, the EMT-P requires extensive training, typically taking between 1,000 and 1,800 hours. Paramedics have the ability to perform sophisticated medical procedures, including the administration of medication in the form of EKGs, interpreting them and advanced airway management.

Step 2: Pursuing Paramedic Certification:

You must complete your EMT B or EMT I level before you can become a paramedic. Once you’ve completed that, it’s possible to enroll in a paramedic course, which typically takes between one and two years to complete. The comprehensive course will provide you with advanced medical subjects, and give you the skills and expertise to deal with critical situations by yourself.

Step 3. Looking into EMT Optional Training:

You’re able to choose among a number of options in the field of EMT certification, depending on the level you’d like to attain. EMT training is generally offered by community colleges as well as medical trades schools that offer all levels of certification. They combine teaching in the classroom with hands-on experience in clinical and field environments.

Universities and colleges offer EMT programs at the EMT/Paramedic level in the event that you’re looking for an in-depth, comprehensive EMT training that leads to a college degree. These programs will give you a more extensive knowledge of emergency medical services, and offer an understanding of the medical care of patients and decision-making.

Step 4: Ensure DSHS Approved EMS Training:

It is important for aspiring EMTs or paramedics to make sure that the program they select has been approved by DSHS. The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) recognizes EMS training courses to ensure that they have met the high standards of education and competency. By enrolling in a DSHS accredited EMS training course, you can be assured that you are receiving top-notch instruction and meeting the prerequisites for obtaining certification.

A career as an EMT or paramedic could be very rewarding and highly respected. EMTs and Paramedics are first emergency responders and play a crucial role in rescuing and giving medical attention immediately in emergencies. To begin this lifesaving endeavor, EMTs and Paramedics are required to complete educational and training courses. Based on the level of certification desired, individuals can choose from several EMT options for training, such as community colleges, medical trade schools, as well as university programs.

It is crucial to evaluate the various training options available to you and ensure that the EMS course you select is DSHS-approved. This will ensure that you’re getting a top-quality education that meets all the requirements required for EMT certification as well as paramedic accreditation.

The need for emergency medical specialists is growing. Being a part of the field of EMS can offer you an array of job opportunities, as well as the possibility of having an enormous impact on others’ lives. If you’re an EMT Basic or would like to be a paramedic your dedication to providing critical health will result in an enjoyable and fulfilling job in emergency medical services.