Differences Between Paramedic and EMT
February 4, 2012Many individuals consider an EMT and a Paramedic as same. But actually there are some differences in between these two medical professionals. Even, media is not so sure regarding the diverse responsibilities of EMTs and paramedics. Nowadays, the emergency services have become more advanced and this is the reason why the EMT training has become more in depth.
EMT is the common certification in the sector of emergency medical services. EMT training consists of 3 levels, which are EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate and Paramedic. EMT-B is the entry level of the training whereas paramedic is the highest level of EMT training.
Scope of practice and training are the biggest differences between EMTs and paramedics. The training period for paramedics is around 1,200 hours to 1,800 hours, whereas it is 120 hours to 150 hours in the event of EMTs. Normally, it takes 2 year to finish paramedic programs.
In most of the states, EMTs are not allowed to start intravenous lifelines or offer shots. However, paramedics can provide shots to the patients and support their breathing by employing advanced airway management machinery. Paramedics are actually capable of utilizing 30-40 medicines, whereas EMTs have no authority to utilize auto-injectors, epinephrine, asthma inhalers, glucose and oxygen.
Aside from some dissimilarity in their jobs, both paramedics and EMTs respond to emergencies. Presence of at least one EMT is needed in an ambulance. EMTs offer elementary care to the patients, while, it is the duty of paramedics to maintain and supply supportive care to them after primary resuscitation.
During interfacility transfers of the patients, both these medics are called. Ambulances are used in order to move patients from one medical facility to another. Whether providing care during transfers or responding to emergencies, ambulances might be staffed with two EMTs, two paramedics, or one of each. In some state, the sort of ambulance sent is determined by the level of staffing.
The guidelines regarding emergency medical service differ from state to state and sometimes they’re different in each county or city. It’s much better to contact the EMS office of your state to get detailed information.
Vince Graft is a career counselor. He has written plenty of articles on emergency medical service. You’ll know a lot more about EMT training NYC from his articles.

















