An EMT, or Emergency Medical Technician, is a first responder trained to provide basic life support and medical care in emergencies. Paramedics are trained to provide more advanced life support than an EMT.
What is an EMT?
EMTs can assess a patient’s condition and provide basic life support, including CPR and the use of an AED. EMTs also can perform some basic medical procedures, such as intubation and splinting.
What is a Paramedic?
In the United States, a paramedic is a healthcare professional who provides medical attention in emergencies. Paramedics are trained to respond to medical emergencies and provide care for patients before they are transported to a hospital.
Paramedics are trained to administer CPR, use defibrillators, and provide other life-saving treatments. They also have the ability to give medications and start IVs. Paramedics usually work in an ambulance or fire truck, but may also be found in police cars, helicopters, and even boats.
While most paramedics are employed by hospitals or other medical facilities, some work for private companies or as part of a volunteer rescue squad.
EMT Vs. Paramedics – Key differences
EMTs are emergency medical technicians. They are trained to respond to medical emergencies and provide basic life support. Paramedics are advanced life support providers. They are trained to provide more comprehensive care, including administering medications and performing minor surgical procedures.
The scope of practice for EMTs and paramedics varies from state to state. In some states, EMTs are allowed to perform certain procedures that paramedics are not, such as intubation or administering IV fluids. In other states, the two roles are more closely aligned. Paramedics also have a greater understanding of pathophysiology and pharmacology than EMTs.
Generally speaking, EMTs provide care for patients en route to the hospital, while paramedics provide care at the scene of an emergency. However, this is not always the case. Some EMTs work in ambulance services and transport patients to and from the hospital. And some paramedics work in hospitals, providing care in the emergency department or critical care units.
Pros of being an EMT or a paramedic
The job of an EMT or paramedic is both demanding and rewarding. These first responders provide lifesaving medical care to those who are sick or injured, often in high-pressure situations. While the work can be challenging, it can also be very gratifying to know that you are helping others in their time of need.
– You can make a difference in people’s lives: As an EMT or paramedic, you will have the opportunity to help people in some of their darkest hours. Whether it’s responding to a car accident or providing CPR to someone who has had a heart attack, you will know that you are making a real difference in the lives of others.
– The job can be exciting: If you like excitement and variety in your work, then being an EMT or paramedic may be a good fit for you. No two days on the job are ever the same, and you never know what kinds of emergencies you will be called on to respond to.
– There is good potential for career advancement: Although many EMTs and paramedics start out working for ambulance services or hospitals, there are many opportunities for career advancement within these fields.
How to Become an EMT or Paramedic
To become an EMT, you must complete a certified training program and pass a national certification exam. To become a paramedic, you must first complete an EMT training program and then complete an additional accredited paramedic training program. You must also pass a national certification exam for paramedics.
How long is paramedic training?
The length of paramedic training varies depending on the program you choose. Some programs can be completed in as little as 12 months, while others may take up to two years. The majority of programs will require you to complete an internship or externship to gain real-world experience.
How much do paramedics get paid?
In the United States, the median annual salary for paramedics is $34,000. The top 10% of earners make more than $56,000, while the bottom 10% make less than $21,000. Paramedics in Canada earn a median annual salary of C$45,000 (US$34,600). The top 10% of earners make more than C$66,000 (US$50,300), while the bottom 10% make less than C$31,000 (US$23,400).
How much does an EMT get paid?
In the United States, EMTs earn a median hourly wage of $15.73, or $32,670 per year. The top 10 per cent of earners make more than $22.38 per hour, or $46,610 per year, while the bottom 10 per cent of earners make less than $9.57 per hour or $19,930 per year.
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