2 answers
Jordan
Student
Redwood City, California
5
Questions
2 answers
Gail Griffey
Recruiter
1
Answer
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Gail’s Answer
It is an awesome job. You are many ties paired up with a Fire dept. You will go out on calls and help folks that are sick. You take then to the hospital or administer first aid on the spot. Sometimes small issues to very large life threatening issues.
Scott Babcock
Customer Experience/Safety Engineering
12
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Scott’s Answer
I was a paramedic for 10 years. As an EMT, not a paramedic, your job is to primarily provide basic first aid (plus a little more) to those in need. The big differentiator though, is where you apply your craft, with a private ambulance company or a first response or a fire department. Working with a private ambulance company, you will be primarily providing basic life support services (as opposed to advanced life support generally defined as starting an IV). Patient transfers from hospitals, nursing homes and outpatient clinics would be the normal day. It is hard work for often lower pay. Working for a first responder though, is very different. An EMT can expect to provide bleeding control, apply splints and braces, oxygen therapy and generally assist the paramedic. I should note most aspiring paramedics start with a private and test to become a first responder.
When not on a call, your job will be to attend training, inspect your ambulance and restocking it as required. I had plenty of shifts (especially when I was with a private), where I didn't sleep. Most EMT's, depending on the business model though, work 24 hours on and 48 off. Overall, it is a very rewarding career and if you are employed by a municipal department, the pension is a huge benefit.
When not on a call, your job will be to attend training, inspect your ambulance and restocking it as required. I had plenty of shifts (especially when I was with a private), where I didn't sleep. Most EMT's, depending on the business model though, work 24 hours on and 48 off. Overall, it is a very rewarding career and if you are employed by a municipal department, the pension is a huge benefit.