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Which is better, Paramedic or EMT?
Just a general question. I'm planning on becoming one of these, but I don't know which yet. Any suggestions?
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5 answers
Updated
CHUNTING’s Answer
I understand that job responsibilities can vary:
- EMT: They quickly respond to emergency calls, check how patients are doing, and give basic care right away. They also help paramedics and other medical staff.
- Paramedic: They take charge of patient care in the field, make important treatment decisions, use advanced life-support tools, and talk to medical facilities.
hope this is helpful to you. thank you.
- EMT: They quickly respond to emergency calls, check how patients are doing, and give basic care right away. They also help paramedics and other medical staff.
- Paramedic: They take charge of patient care in the field, make important treatment decisions, use advanced life-support tools, and talk to medical facilities.
hope this is helpful to you. thank you.
Thank you, CHUNTING!
Emmalee
Updated
Phillips’s Answer
EMTs typically provide BLS (basic life saving ) treatment, depending on protocols. Paramedics have an increased scope of practice that provide ALS (advanced life saving) treatment. Paramedic school is longer
Thank you so much!
Emmalee
Updated
Todd D.’s Answer
You need to earn your EMT BEFORE moving on to Paramedic. Moreover, it is a good idea to work in the field for a year before moving on, just so you have an idea of what you are doing.
Additionally, with all the changes in scope of practice, EMTs are now allowed to perform some aspects that were Paramedic skills just a few years ago.
Contrary to the other response, both EMTs and Paramedics respond to emergencies, check how patients are doing, and give basic care right away, take charge of patient care in the field, make important treatment decisions, and talk to medical facilities.
Additionally, with all the changes in scope of practice, EMTs are now allowed to perform some aspects that were Paramedic skills just a few years ago.
Contrary to the other response, both EMTs and Paramedics respond to emergencies, check how patients are doing, and give basic care right away, take charge of patient care in the field, make important treatment decisions, and talk to medical facilities.
Thank you, Todd D. for the advice.
Emmalee
Updated
John’s Answer
Overall, the decision is up to you. In order to obtain your paramedic, you need to complete EMT training. Don't rush into obtaining your paramedic certification. First, focus on being the best EMT that you can be. A lot of folks decide that they want to remain EMTs, as opposed to obtaining their paramedic certification.
Personally, I would rather work with a competent EMT, than a paramedic that rushed through training (Zero to Hero).
Once you get experience as an EMT, then make the decision about obtaining your paramedic. Talk to your partners. They are more likely to be honest and tell you the truth about whether or not you should become a paramedic.
Take your time and make the best decision for you.
Personally, I would rather work with a competent EMT, than a paramedic that rushed through training (Zero to Hero).
Once you get experience as an EMT, then make the decision about obtaining your paramedic. Talk to your partners. They are more likely to be honest and tell you the truth about whether or not you should become a paramedic.
Take your time and make the best decision for you.
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
It's not really a question of which is better. It's more a question of scope of practice and what you want from the career field. Start as an EMT. That let's you see the BLS side, gives you exposure to what the life is like, the ups and downs, while still having a limited scope and responsibilities. You'll see Medics on scene and can make an informed decision if you think going that route is right for you.