Completed first responder training certifies that the student has some basic medical skills that are less technical than an EMT but more advanced than those with basic first aid training.
The certified first responder should not be confused with the first person on the scene trying to assist that has no medical training. That person would be recorded as the first respondent to the emergency site.
The training to become certified as a first responder requires 40-60 hours of class time, including the field work and hands-on portion. This program is often available through volunteer fire departments and the Red Cross. Instructors can be an EMT with appropriate field experience.
A Certified First Responder will be proficient in:
- Recognizing and reporting emergency or potentially catastrophic situations
- CPR for adults, children, and infants
- Use of external defibrillator
- Use of oxygen
- Emergency childbirth
- Slowing blood loss
- Temporary setting of broken bones
- Spinal immobilization
- Assisting with transport of victims
- Basic first aid
The level of training given in first responder classes depends on local regulations and state laws. Not all states allow training in all areas.
One of the most important aspects of first responder training is honing the ability to problem solve under pressure and in complicated situations. Many lives depend on the quick thinking and good judgment of these trained emergency personnel.
Aside from police and fire personnel, those who may take first responder training include:
- Park Rangers
- Teachers
- Rural sporting guides
- Camp counselors
- Search and Rescue workers
First Responder Duties and Limitations
The first responder gives support to more advanced medical personnel once they arrive and may also lend support to police, fire, and rescue workers. Their allowed use of skills is limited by local and state regulations.
In many states police and fire workers have first responder training and are certified as such. States have varying regulations for first responders including police and fire personnel, but most states have Good Samaritan laws that protect those trying to help those in need.
Good Samaritan laws were originally enacted to protect non-licensed personnel who tried to assist those in distress or an emergency situation. They have been expanded in most areas to include responders who have any type of medical license or certification.
Medically trained personnel can, however, be held liable if they overstep their training boundaries. For example, a certified first responder may be sued for performing an intubation that causes harm since that is not within their realm of training and knowledge base.
First responder training has produced a group of knowledgeable people who have aided in many rescues and life saving emergency procedures. Anyone with a high school diploma or GED can apply for first responder training.
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