Emergency medical technicians in Pennsylvania are trained to handle a variety of different emergencies. Whether someone has suffered a heart attack or has received a trauma as a result of an accident, these are some of the first people that arrive on the scene. They have a variety of different duties and responsibilities and the course of action that they may take will depend on several different factors. This can include the condition of the individual being treated and their certification level, to name a few.

Scope of Practice

The scope of practice for an EMT is based upon his or her education and training background. An example of this is the paramedic and what is commonly referred to as the first responder. While both classes of personnel are trained in basic life support measures and performing critical assessment, there are some limitations to what each group may or may not do. The laws in Pennsylvania stipulate this requirement to ensure that the person does not carry out any intervention that they do not have the appropriate skills to safely do. Regardless of the specific title, the person must also be certified.

Types of Care That May Be Provided

The tech may provide multiple services. This may include but is not limited to the administration of oxygen, CPR, IV therapy and management of airways. Some may even be allowed to splint body parts, utilize an automated external defibrillator (AED) and give certain medications. The goal of those in this profession is not only to save lives, but to stabilize the person until medical treatment can be sought from qualified and licensed health care personnel.

Training and Education

Those seeking a career in this field must complete some form of approved training. Educational requirements consist of acquiring hands-on skills in a lab or another appropriate setting and some type of lecture or book work. Course components may contain education in areas such as cardiology, pharmacology and respiratory management for example. After successful completion of an approved curriculum, the graduate is eligible to obtain certification.

Job Prospects

Emergency medical technicians in Pennsylvania may be paid or volunteer their time, seeking no reimbursement. Those that choose to make this a career will have several different opportunities available to them. The most common employers are typically the agencies that respond to numerous types of situations, such as the local fire department and ambulance services.