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What does an Emergency Medical Technician do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

An Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is a trained medical professional who provides emergency medical care. EMTs are often the first responders to medical emergencies, and they provide care to patients before they are transported to a hospital.

Emergency Medical Technician job duties include:

  • Assess the nature and severity of the patient’s condition
  • Determine the appropriate course of action
  • Administer first-aid and life-support
  • Transport the patient to a medical facility
  • Monitor and record the patient’s vital signs
  • Keep the patient comfortable and calm
  • Communicate with medical personnel at the receiving facility
  • Prepare equipment and supplies for transport
  • Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of the ambulance

Emergency Medical Technician Job Requirements

An Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is a medical professional who provides emergency medical care. EMTs are trained to assess patients and provide care for them in an emergency situation. They are also trained to provide care for patients who are in a life-threatening condition.

EMTs must have a high school diploma or equivalent. They must also complete an accredited EMT program and pass a national certification exam. Some states also require EMTs to have a state license.

EMTs typically have at least one year of experience working in an emergency medical setting. Some EMTs may also have additional training in specialties such as critical care or pediatrics.

Emergency Medical Technician Skills

  • First Aid
  • CPR
  • AED
  • Airway Management
  • Patient Assessment
  • Vital Signs
  • Bleeding Control
  • Shock Management
  • Splinting
  • Cardiac Monitoring
  • Medication Administration
  • Pediatrics

Related: Top Emergency Medical Technician Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Emergency Medical Technician

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are the first responders to medical emergencies. They provide basic life support and care for patients before they are transported to a hospital. EMTs are trained to assess a patient’s condition and stabilize them for transport.

Becoming an EMT requires completing a training program that is typically about six months long. The program will include both classroom and practical instruction. After completing the program, you will need to pass a national certification exam.

EMT work can be physically demanding and emotionally challenging. You will need to be able to lift patients and equipment, and you will need to be able to handle stress in high-pressure situations. But if you are up for the challenge, becoming an EMT can be a rewarding experience. You will have the opportunity to help people in their time of need and make a difference in your community.

Related: Emergency Medical Technician Resume Example

Related: Emergency Medical Technician Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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