John Rose of Oak Bluffs: Do You Want to Become an EMT?
A college degree is not a requirement for being an EMT, according to John Rose of Oak Bluffs. Surprised? Here are the steps and a few helpful details you need to know if you want to become an EMT.
2. Obtain a CPR certificate: After getting your high school diploma or GED, go for the required CPR certification. Organizations such as the American Red Cross offer in-person as well as online CPR training courses for the CPR certification requirement. This step also involves maintaining CPR certification. John Rose of Oak Bluffs mentions that most certifications need to be renewed at least every two years.
3. Look for an accredited, state-approved EMT program: These programs are offered at local community colleges as well as fire stations, emergency training facilities, and technical schools. Red Cross also provides them. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs website also has listings there per area.
4. Choose what kind of class you want: There are in-person and hybrid options. A hybrid option includes online and in-person training and may be more flexible if you have other full-time commitments such as work or school. John Rose of Oak Bluffs notes that coursework for an EMT program includes various topics that range from human anatomy to bleeding management, from reading vital signs to obstetrics. A majority of the programs take one to two years to complete, which is roughly 120 to 150 credit hours. That said, the EMT basic course can take as little as three to six weeks and can prepare you for the licensure exam. The time it takes to pass an EMT program also depends on the coursework and career goals of an EMT. You can take additional coursework so you can have more options within the profession.
5. Take the exam: After finishing an accredited EMT program, you’ll become qualified to take the licensure examination. It is the National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT) cognitive exam. The test involves both a cognition exam and a psychomotor exam, adds John Rose of Oak Bluffs. Once you’ve passed both exams, you will get your license to work as an EMT in your state.
6. Apply for an EMT job: After meeting the requirements to work as an EMT in your state, you can apply for EMT jobs in your area. Your resume should include details regarding your EMT program certification, as well as any additional training and certifications you have. Highlight skills that would make you a great EMT and have good references who can speak to these skills. There are many opportunities to work as an EMT where you live.
John Rose of Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard, excelled as a multi-sport athlete in high school, notably leading the golf team as captain. He now serves as the Chief of the Oak Bluffs Fire Department, with certifications including Fire Prevention Officer and Fire Officer 1. Read similar blogs on this blogsite.