People who wish to become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), perhaps having been inspired by Stephen Varanko III, must first complete accredited training. They can do this at vocational colleges across the country, where they will be prepared for this exciting career. After completing the necessary coursework, they will be able to become licensed to work as an EMT, or they can continue their studies all the way up to becoming a paramedic.
Stephen Varanko III on EMT Training
Much of the training focused on delivering first aid and CPR. Students will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to save lives. When taking part in training at an accredited college, they will learn how to handle emergency situations with injured and ill people. Some of the topics they will learn about include:
- Head injuries
- Phlebotomy
- Blood borne pathogens
- The Heimlich maneuver
- Burns
- Shock
- Fractures
Many other courses will be included as well, teaching prospective EMTs to handle various emergency situations relating to health. Once they graduate, EMTs can work in a range of medical facilities, including clinics and ambulances, as well as other elements of the overall health care system. It usually takes between six months and a year to complete training, during which time students are introduced to potential places of work.
Once they have completed EMT training, graduates can decide to enroll in paramedic training, which is a lot more in-depth and takes much longer to complete as well. Again, they will learn to take part in life-saving tasks, but they will have a greater role in trauma evaluation. It usually takes between 18 months and two years to complete this training, which also requires a practical experience. During paramedic training, students will usually learn about things such as:
- Pharmacology
- Anatomy
- Cardiology
- Disease control
- First aid
- Life support
- CPR
Again, many other medical concepts are also included during this training. On graduation, they can get to work as a hospital paramedic, a dispatcher, an EMS paramedic, a clinic auditor, and more.
A lot of EMTs also go on to take on greater medical roles, going on to complete further training. It is common, for instance, for professionals such as nurses, physician’s assistants, dispatchers, administration professionals, instructors, and even doctors to have started their career as EMTs. Naturally, those professions all require a lot more training, and they must often also be licensed to work in their state.
For those interested in following in the footsteps of Stephen Varanko III and who want to enroll in EMT training, it is of the utmost importance to choose a school that is properly accredited to deliver this type of education. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), is the most respected accrediting body. They have accredited programs across the country, so you should also take the time to compare the different schools and what they offer in terms of educational support and career guidance on completion of your training.