Written by: Emily Joswiak • August 16, 2021• Safety

What It Takes To Become an Emergency Medical Technician

Becoming an emergency medical technician (EMT) is a process that’s altogether different from going to medical school. The concentration here is saving lives in emergency scenarios, so there are different requirements and specific guidelines than what is standard for general medical practitioners. The goal is to keep the patient stable and alive while in transition to the nearest medical facility. This is what it takes to become an emergency medical technician, in case you were curious or looking to make a career change.

Understanding the Educational Requirements

The basic requirement for entry into an emergency medical technician program is a high school diploma or GED. Beyond this, you will need to research the trade before figuring out which program to enter. This is a serious profession that is focused on saving lives, so you must be completely committed to this path long before you take the first steps to make it your profession.

Finding a Program of Study

Following your decision to become an EMT and completion of your high school degree or GED, you will need to find a business or company that trains EMTs for their occupation. The best thing to do here is research your local hospitals to gain information regarding their programs. The internet is also a great resource for finding programs for certification. You might even introduce yourself to an EMT and tell them that you’re looking for mentorship. Make sure to thank them for their service in medicine.

Taking the Test and Practical Examination

Once you have been accepted into your program and have completed the necessary training, you will be tested for your understanding and application of various concepts. The first exam will be written and consists of 70 to 120 questions; you must meet the minimum score to stay in the program. After you complete the written portion of your examination, you will be tested on your practical application of everything you have learned. During this phase of the testing, you will have to give examples that apply what you have learned in the classroom to real situations that could happen in the field.

After you have taken your exams and finished your training, it is only a matter of time before you get your results. Remember that medical professions are very serious, so you have to completely commit yourself to medicine if you are thinking of going through with becoming a medical professional of any kind. Your job is to save lives for a living, so you cannot afford to make mistakes. Dedication, passion for medicine, and mastery of different life-saving processes are what it takes to become an emergency medical technician.

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Last modified: August 19, 2021