EMTs and paramedics are clad in similar uniforms, ride in emergency vehicles, and care for patients on-site. But different levels of certification, job responsibilities, and medical expertise are what set the professions apart. Below are key differences in EMT training and paramedic training that you must know before starting on either career path.

A Guide to Paramedic & EMT Job Paths

What Are the Education Requirements?

EMT work is less intensive than a paramedic program. Basic EMT training—performing CPR, stabilizing head and neck injuries, or bandaging wounds—can take approximately six months to complete, including up to 150 hours of coursework. Paramedic training is rigorous and more advanced. Unlike EMTs, paramedics are trained to administer IV fluids and injections, perform advanced life support (ALS), and dispense medications. Paramedics typically work towards 1,200 to 1,800 hours of coursework for over a year.

How Are They Certified?

Both EMTs and paramedics require state certification through NREMT testing to demonstrate competency in their respective fields. The cognitive portion of the EMT exam ranges from 70 to 120 questions and covers topics such as trauma, cardiology, and obstetrics. The psychomotor portion physically assesses EMT competence in pain management, bleeding control, and joint immobilization. The paramedic cognitive exam ranges from 80 to 150 questions covering the same topics as EMTs. Paramedics are tested on dynamic and static cardiology skills along with trauma assessment in their psychomotor exam. Both EMTs and paramedics are given six chances to pass the cognitive exam, while only paramedics are given two chances to pass the psychomotor exam.

What Do the Jobs Entail?

The foundational difference between EMTs and paramedics is the ability to break a patient’s skin. EMT training doesn’t involve administering shots or IV fluids, whereas paramedics training requires such knowledge. Paramedics are educated in the use of 30 to 40 different medications, while EMTs are limited to oxygen, glucose, and asthma inhalers. EMTs drive the ambulance and generally observe the patient’s condition, while paramedics monitor the patient in transit, keep their records, and assume a majority of medical care responsibilities.

If you’re envisioning a career as an EMT, set your sights on an education with Great Oaks Career Campuses in Cincinnati, OH. They’re staffed with experienced practitioners and a host of medical tools and equipment in their labs to make for an authentic, valuable learning experience. They offer career development and vocational programs to prepare students of any age for careers in IT, construction, or nursing. Start on the path to success in your field by calling (513) 771-8810 or visiting their website to learn more about the district and its EMT training programs.