Athletics EMT

Sully12

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Hi all,
So I recently got registered with the NREMT and my state, and I just got offered a job at my old high school as being the “athletics emt” for sporting events like hockey, basketball, etc.
I went in for the interview, and it was very laid back (they know me very well) and they basically just showed me where equipment was and what time to show up.
I asked how it works as far as liability, and the AD said that for anyone I treat, I fill out an incident report that he or a coach then signs off on, which covers me.
I’m just wondering, without a director and basically working on my own, what am I allowed to do?

Granted the most I’ll probably have to deal with is probably a sprain or concussion, but what if there’s cardiac problems?
I’ve used an AED on someone before to (luckily successfully) revive them, but that was before I took my course and got certified.
I’m just wondering what I’m really allowed to handle, or is anything I’m licensed for fair game?

Thanks for any input!
 

MMiz

I put the M in EMTLife
Community Leader
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These are questions you should be asking the school.

As far as liability, you're likely covered by the school. Still, now that you're a practicing provider, I'd pick up an inexpensive malpractice insurance policy from HPSO.

Are you the person that responds to all athletic injuries? Is there an athletic trainer on site? What can you treat and when should you call 911?

Concussions are serious, and you likely don't have anywhere near the training needed to successfully assess athletes. I'd look into your responsibilities and liabilities.

It sounds like a cool gig, but I'd ask more questions.
 

NomadicMedic

I know a guy who knows a guy.
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I don’t know where you live, EMTs generally can’t just “freelance” without medical control.

I’d do some checking into the legality of working as an EMT without medical direction in your state.

This is one reason my business has become successful. As soon as I have a discussion about liability and medical direction, Sporting programs ditch their own EMTs and hire my company. :)
 

EpiEMS

Forum Deputy Chief
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I’m just wondering what I’m really allowed to handle, or is anything I’m licensed for fair game?

As @NomadicMedic said, you should look into whether this is permissible. Maybe check with the state EMS office (or county EMS office, if necessary).
 

DrParasite

The fire extinguisher is not just for show
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I remember back in HS they had both a certified athletic trainer and student athletic trainers who operated under his license.

The school should cover you for liability (since you are their employee), but you should consult your local governing body on who should be acting as your medical director..

there are some states that will allow the state DOH to be their offline medical control, and allow them to operate under their guidance.
 
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Sully12

Forum Ride Along
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Thanks for all of the input. I obviously need to ask a few more questions.
I’ll also pick up the liability insurance
 
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