The world of healthcare is very diverse considering the sheer quantity of different positions and jobs within the field. From brain surgeons to nurse’s assistants, each position has different requirements in terms of degrees and certification.
NREMT certification is a certification recognized across the United States that proves the holder’s competence in pre-hospital care and opens doors to different careers in emergency medical services(EMS). NREMT tests require diligent preparation and NREMT exam prep is readily available online for interested individuals to practice and perfect their skills and knowledge before taking the actual test.
In this article we will list some of the diverse EMT positions open to holders of NREMT certification and take a look at the roles and responsibilities of each, so read on if you are planning on obtaining this useful certification.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
The most obvious application of NREMT certifications would be working as an emergency medical technician(EMT). These are usually the first responders to emergency calls and they provide the essential and oftentimes life-saving pre-hospital care. EMTs are expected to assess the patient’s condition, handle any trauma, respiratory or cardiac emergencies, and transport the patient safely to health care facilities.
Various settings require the presence of certified EMTs including the following:
- Ambulance Services: These are the EMTs that respond to 911 calls ranging from minor injuries to life-threatening situations. They are the first to arrive, handle any medical emergencies, and safely transport the patients to allocated health facilities. These EMTs are the backbone of any emergency medical services(EMS) system.
- Fire Departments: Many fire departments employ EMTs to assist in rescue operations and provide emergency medical care, but several fire departments require their firefighters to hold an EMT certification. This dual firefighter/EMS role demands physical fitness, medical expertise, and the ability to work in hazardous conditions as it provides a combination of fire suppression, rescue operations, and medical care.
- Private Ambulance Services: These EMTs handle non-emergency situations, usually medical transports, such as transferring patients between health facilities, including both ground and air transport. They are expected to ensure the patient’s safety and comfort during the transport between health facilities or to home care settings.
- Industrial EMT: Many industries employ EMTs to ensure the safety of their workers. Industries like manufacturing, construction, oil and gas, and many more hire industrial EMTs to handle any potential workplace accidents, but also to provide routine health checks, and educate employees on health and safety.
- Wilderness EMT: NREMT certificate holders with a passion for the outdoors can consider a career as a wilderness EMT, which is a unique, adventurous, and rewarding path. EMTs who choose this path will work in remote areas where traditional EMS is unavailable. They will undergo additional training in survival techniques, wilderness medication, and ways to improvise medical care with limited resources.
- Law Enforcement EMT: Some law enforcement agencies, like SWAT teams, employ EMTs to provide medical support during tactical operations or disaster responses. These EMTs are required to provide care to injured officers, suspects, and civilians during high-risk situations so they take additional training in tactical medicine and working in dangerous environments.
- Event Medical Services: Holders of NREMT certification can find employment in event medical services. This position provides essential pre-hospital care in a variety of public settings like concerts, sports events, festivals, and any other large gatherings. In this role, EMTs are expected to prepare for all potential medical emergencies, as they will have to treat any injuries and illnesses and coordinate medical transportation with the local EMS.
- School EMT: A large number of schools employ EMTs to handle emergencies from cuts and bruises to serious injuries and chronic conditions like asthma, epilepsy, or any allergies. These EMTs also often assist with health education and provide regular health checkups, while also participating in school emergency preparedness drills.
- Disaster Response EMT: These EMTs are crucial during large-scale emergencies like natural disasters or humanitarian crises. They work with organizations like FEMA or the Red Cross and often in diverse and rapidly changing conditions, requiring adaptability, resilience, and a strong commitment to helping those in need.
- Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT): This is a role that requires additional training and certifications, but is an option for NREMT certification holders who would like to further their career by gaining additional knowledge including the administration of intravenous fluids, certain advanced medications, and more complex airway management techniques. Advanced emergency medical technicians are an invaluable asset to any team, both in emergency and non-emergency situations.
Conclusion
NREMT certification gives its holder a chance to work in various positions and roles. Just the position of emergency medical technician comes in a plethora of different roles with various requirements, fitting individuals with a wide range of preferences. From 911 responders and firefighters/EMS roles to wilderness and event medical services, we are sure that there’s something for every NREMT cert holder to choose from!
