Education Preparation to Become a Paramedic
Paramedics, like Emergency Medical Technicians, are called to assist people when there is an accident or a medical emergency. However, paramedics generally can give the patient a higher level of care than an EMT by administering medication both by mouth and intravenously, performing tracheotomies, and performing and interpreting the results of an electrocardiogram. The level of care that a paramedic can provide is determined by state regulations.
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EMT -- Basic
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Typically, a high school diploma is required for admittance into an EMT training program. Basic EMT training covers primary first aid so that students learn to deal with fractures, heart attacks, bleeding and people who have difficulty breathing. During EMT-Basic training you will learn to use emergency equipment such as splints, stretchers, backboards and oxygen. To become certified as an EMT-Basic, you must pass the national exam given by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians and/or the specific exam regulated by your state.
EMT -- Intermediate
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EMT-Basic certification is usually required for admittance to an EMT-Intermediate training program. This level continues training, adding instruction in areas such as medication, intravenous fluids and airway devices. Training at this level is state directed and, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, can require between 30 and 350 hours of training depending on the state.
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Paramedic
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Successful completion of an EMT-Basic and EMT-Immediate program is required before entering a paramedic training program. Coursework extends to learning about the human body, including class work in physiology and anatomy. In addition to the classes, you will be required to have field and clinical experience. This additional training will prepare you for the national exam given by NREMT and/or the exam given by your state.
State Regulations
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While every state has paramedic licensing requirements and training regulations, the specific requirements will vary by state. In addition to the education required to first obtain a paramedic license, paramedics are required to take refresher and continuing education courses to maintain their certification.
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