EMT school is a great way to break into the healthcare field in a short period of time. Most programs take only weeks to complete in order to enter this exciting and rewarding career.
There are a few requirements to begin EMT school, and some vary by state. The core curriculum is mandated by federal regulations, so there is coherence to core knowledge no matter what state you attend EMT school in. The most distinct variance between state EMT graduates is titles and advanced designations.
EMT School Requirements
Requirements for acceptance to an EMT program will differ slightly by state but generally you must:
- Be 18+ years old
- Have a clean driving record
- Have a clean criminal record (some states allow certain convictions – check with your state authorities)
- Have a High School Diploma or equivalent
- Demonstrate strength and agility (bending, lifting, kneeling, crawling, swimming)
- Have a current CPR certificate
- Have up to date vaccinations including Tetanus and Hepatitis
Of course each school program will have its own application process and may require references, photo ID, a social security card, a birth certificate and other documentation.
You will spend class time studying:
- Healthcare ethics
- Life threatening conditions
- Basic life support
- Therapeutic communication
- Patient assessment
- Use of emergency equipment
- Safety in the emergency environment
An advanced EMT student will also learn:
- Advanced life support (ACLS)
- Advanced airway management
- Use of emergency medications
- IV insertion and maintenance
- Management of blood loss
You will also practice textbook skills on mannequins, classmates, instructors, and finally, real patients. Clinical experience is gained through hours of attendance on ambulances, in ER’s, fire houses, and sometimes with police. Hands-on practice will take up most of the required EMT school hours and is also a large part of the licensure exam.
Students must pass both the written and clinical portions of the exam to be licensed as an EMT.
After EMT School
Most EMT grads continue their education while they work and advance in their field. Some states have up to 4 advancement levels before reaching Paramedic status. Others go on to be nurses or enter medical school.
The EMT that has advanced training is eligible for higher paying jobs and more options for a work environment. EMT’s who take management classes may become managers in the ambulance industry or even in emergency rooms. As experience and education progresses so will the pay and opportunities in this field.
If you perform well under pressure, love excitement, problem solving, and helping others in distress, EMT school will be the beginning of a fulfilling career.
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