California State Certification as an EMT is one of the requirements to apply to a paramedic program in the state. This course is presented by experienced instructors. It provides both classroom and hands-on skills training. Successful completion of this course results in National Certification eligibility. CPR certification and ride along on an ambulance is required and included. For more information about our Emergency Medical Technician training, click on the Contact Us link on the left.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment is projected to grow faster than average as paid emergency medical technician positions replace unpaid volunteers. Some of the places EMT's work at are fire departments, ambulance companies, and hospitals. Employment of emergency medical technicians and paramedics is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2010. Population growth and urbanization will increase the demand for full-time paid EMT's and Paramedics. In addition, a large segment of the population — the aging baby boomers — will further spur demand for emergency medical services, as they become more likely to have medical emergencies.
What does an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) do?
An EMT brings expert medical care to victims of illness or injury by stabilizing medical problems and transporting patients to the hospital. At the scene of an accident or in the case of an illness at home, emergency medical care may involve control of bleeding, application of bandages or splints, administration of oxygen, resuscitation of victims, treatment of shock, assistance in childbirth, control of mentally disturbed persons, treatment of poisoning or burn victims, or assistance in evacuation of victims trapped by fire or accidents. Other duties include communications, documentation, emergency vehicle driving, and maintenance.
What are the working conditions of an EMT?
EMT's may work for fire departments, hospitals, private ambulance companies, police departments, and in private industry. The majority work on ambulances and within fire departments, but some find seasonal work in forest firefighting, parks and recreation areas, and amusement parks. EMT certification is usually the minimum level of medical care provided by most fire departments.
What is the employment outlook for EMTs?
There will be a continued need for EMT's because of growing public awareness of the importance of pre-hospital care. Most fire departments are now requiring this training and certification as a minimum requirement for either employment or continued employment. Advancement can be made to paramedic, nursing and similar fields.
What personal qualifications, skills, and abilities are necessary to be an EMT?
EMT's must be able to give and receive verbal and written instructions quickly and clearly, remain calm in emergencies, and maintain a neat, clean, and professional appearance. They must also be able to use good judgment under stress, use common sense, drive an emergency vehicle, avoid endangering themselves or their co-workers, and avoid inflicting further injury on patients.
If you are already a County Certified EMT, please click on the Contact Us link on the left to get more information on how you can become a Paramedic.