| People are often confused about the job specifications | | | | EMT and paramedic careers have a much broader |
| when it comes to EMT vs paramedic, and sometimes | | | | scope of job duties compared to EMT basic careers. |
| the two jobs are even believed to be interchangeable. | | | | Paramedics are allowed to break skin, while basic |
| A basic EMT, or emergency medical technician, is | | | | EMTs are not. Paramedics can give shots and use |
| different from a paramedic, although paramedics are | | | | more advanced airway management devices to help |
| also technically EMTs with slightly higher skill levels and | | | | support the patient's breathing, and in many states they |
| training. EMT paramedic jobs are typically referred to | | | | are trained to use as many as 40 medications. Basic |
| as paramedic jobs, while basic emergency technician | | | | EMTs, on the other hand, can only use asthma inhalers, |
| jobs are referred to as EMT jobs, though they are | | | | epinephrine auto-injectors, glucose and oxygen. |
| sometimes referred to as all in one: EMT paramedic | | | | For those considering EMT vs paramedic careers, you |
| EMT paramedic careers start out the same as basic | | | | may want to start out with your EMT-Basic |
| EMT careers. EMT-Paramedic certification is more | | | | certification and see if the career is right for you, then |
| complex than EMT-Basic certification, though. The | | | | continue on to the next level of certification. There is |
| biggest difference is in the number of training hours | | | | also an intermediate level between basic and |
| involved and the on-the-job skills that the individuals are | | | | paramedic EMTs in some states. This is a challenging |
| allowed to perform. Basic EMTs undergo 120 to 150 | | | | job without a lot of prestige, but the rewards of |
| hours of training, while EMT Paramedic certification | | | | knowing you're saving lives can make it more than |
| requires anywhere from 1,200 hours to 1,800 hours of | | | | worthwhile. A local school or technical institute can |
| training. Many EMT paramedic jobs require a two-year | | | | provide more information. Institutions offering quality |
| degree program, but some programs can be | | | | EMT and Paramedic Programs include National |
| completed more quickly, allowing graduates to get a | | | | College, Medix College, Keiser Career College and |
| job in the field as fast as possible. | | | | Sanford-Brown College. |