Advanced EMT Training
Advanced emergency medical technicians (EMTs) serve as emergency caregivers for ambulance and fire departments. With more skills and training than a basic EMT, an advanced EMT is able to provide more services and perform more procedures in an emergency. Additionally, the advanced EMT training allows the EMT to assume more of a leadership role in a trauma situation. Local community colleges as well as teaching hospitals offer courses in advanced EMT training.
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Types
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State regulations vary on the requirements for advanced EMTs. In some states, advanced EMT training results in paramedic status. In other states, advanced EMT training is a middle level of training between basic EMT training and paramedic training. In areas underserved by paramedics, the advanced EMT is often the first line of help in an emergency.
Time Frame
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Just as state regulations vary for type, the amount of time it takes to complete advanced EMT training varies as well. In Michigan, for example, an advanced training course takes 15 weeks for classes and labs. These classes meet twice a week for six-hour sessions. The course finishes with another 15-week session that includes an internship and clinical studies. Similar training in Indiana takes 140 hours to complete. The classes meet twice a week for four hours. In 13 weeks, the course is complete.
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Prerequisites
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In order to take classes in advanced emergency medical technician training, the EMT must already have the core competencies of a basic EMT. This includes training in CPR, human anatomy and physiology, IV management, automatic defibrillation, emergency childbirth, hazmat operations and ambulance operations. In most cases, the EMT must be at least 18 years of age.
Courses
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Course titles vary by location, but the topics are generally similar in each of the states. Advanced classes in anatomy and physiology are part of the curriculum as well as classes in pathophysiology. The advanced EMT also takes part in pharmacology and cardiology training. Professional courses in emergency communications, ambulance operations and triage are typically included in the coursework. The advanced EMT student may also have a class dedicated to helping him prepare for his national registry exam. The coursework has clinical fieldwork that reinforces the knowledge learned in the classroom.
Salary
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According to PayScale, the average salary of an advanced emergency medical technician ranges from $10.61 to $15.55 per hour as of 2010. In certain parts of the country, such as underserved areas, the wages may be higher. Depending on the ambulance company or hospital, the EMT may also have a benefits package along with his hourly wages.
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References
- Photo Credit ambulance image by JASON WINTER from Fotolia.com
