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Emergency Medical Technician

Program Information

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When someone calls 911 and reports a medical emergency, a dispatcher sends help to the people in need. EMTs with basic training represent the first level or responders. As an EMT-B, you'll learn basic emergency care skills. You'll be able to assess a patient's condition, and take actions to treat and stabilize the patient so he or she can be transported to a hospital. EMT-B's are trained to administer oxygen and certain medications, bandage and splint injuries, perform CPR, and defibrillate or "shock" cardiac arrest victims.

An EMT-I performs all EMT-B skills and also initiates intravenous (IV) lines, gives additional medications, and performs more advanced skills. EMT-Paramedics perform all EMT- and EMT-I skills, and have an enhanced level of training in biology, anatomy and physiology, as well as pharmacology and cardiovascular emergency care. EMT's at all levels of training work for ambulance, rescue, and fire services. EMT's also find employment with hospitals, clinics, private industry, and security agencies that provide emergency medical care.

The hourly wage for an EMT-B starts at $8.50 per hour, for an EMT-I is generally higher, but varies by employer. Beginning EMT Paramedics earn apprximately $27,000 to $30,000 annually.