New EMT Questions

[EMTnoob15]

I just finished my EMT-B class and have signed up for the NREMT. I was told working in an ED would be very beneficial if I would like to continue my education and apply for PA school down the road. (Also I heard working as an ER Tech pays a little better than working as an EMT-B on a rig) I have done some research and to work as an ER Tech it says you need your EMT-B cert and some experience. I was wondering if also obtaining a phlebotomy certification would be helpful or would increase my chances of getting a job in an ED or on a rig? I am looking into a two week program but am not sure if the certification is necessary or would be helpful.

 

[ProjectCamaro]

First off congratulations on finishing your class and good luck on the NREMT!

You are correct that the vast majority of ED Tech jobs will go to those who have EMT experiance. I was one of the rare cases where I was hired as one without any time on the job as an EMT but that was because I work full time as a police officer and the hiring managers considered that experiance enough to give me a shot.

For my hospital they will give you all the IV, phlebotomy, and other training needed for you. I can start IV's without being at the EMT-Advanced level because of this but without experiance or with limited experiance it would absolutely help you get hired where I work.

I will also say that a lot of hospitals have tuition assistance programs which can help you become a PA later on so even if you have to start at a private ambluance company or a volunteer department in order to get hired as an ED Tech it'll be well worth your time.