EMT/Paramedic
Emergency medical technicians and paramedics provide prehospital emergency care, responding to 911 calls for medical emergencies, trauma, and disaster situations. Paramedics perform advanced procedures including intubation, IV medication administration, and cardiac monitoring, while EMTs provide basic life support. The BLS reports a median salary of $37,760 with 5% projected growth. EMT-Basic certification requires about 150 hours of training; paramedic certification requires 1,200-1,800 hours plus an associate degree in many states.
A Day in the Life
A typical shift starts with checking the ambulance's medical supplies, medications, and equipment. The morning might include responding to a cardiac arrest call, performing CPR and advanced life support, and transporting the patient to the ER. Between calls, the paramedic restocks supplies and completes run reports. The afternoon could involve treating a patient having an allergic reaction, responding to a car accident, and training a new EMT on patient assessment protocols.
Key Stats
Education
Associate Degree
Salary Range
Entry: $30,000
Median: $37,760
Senior: $60,000
Job Growth