|
 |
| Emergency Medical Technicians |
| |
| Employment Increase: |
36% |
| People In Field: |
155,000 |
| Average Salary: |
$21,000 |
| Qualifications: |
High School, Training |
| |
Nature of the Work:
Automobile accident injuries, heart attacks, near
drownings, unscheduled childbirths, poisonings, and
gunshot wounds all demand urgent medical attention.
Emergency medical technicians (EMT's) give immediate care and
then transport the sick or injured to medical facilities.
Following instructions from a dispatcher, EMT's, who usually work
in teams of two, drive specially equipped emergency vehicles
to the scene of emergencies. If necessary, they request
additional help from police, fire, or electric company personnel.
Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement:
Formal training is needed to become an EMT.
The EMTBasic training is 100 to 120 hours of classroom
work plus ten hours of internship in a hospital emergency
room. EMTIntermediate training varies from state to state, but
includes 35 to 55 hours of additional instruction. Training
is available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, and
is offered by police, fire, and health departments; in
hospitals; and as a non-degree course in colleges and universities.
Training programs for EMT-Paramedics generally last between
750 and 2,000 hours. Refresher courses and continuing
education are available for EMT's at all levels.
Job Outlook:
Most job openings will occur because of this
occupation's substantial replacement needs. Turnover is quite high,
reflecting this occupation's stressful working conditions, limited
advancement potential, and the modest pay and benefits in
the private sector.
Sources of Additional Information:
Information concerning training courses, registration, and job
opportunities for EMT's can be obtained by writing to the state
Emergency Medical Service Director. General information about EMT's
is available from:
National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians
9140 Ward Ave.
Kansas City, MO 64114
|
| |
| Back to Career Listings |
| |
|
