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an emergency to the proper medical facilities. This is done either by ambulance or by helicopter. EMTs are considered entry-level patient care providers. They are formally known as EMT-1s or EMT-Bs (that is, basic EMTs). Many civilians believe that paramedics and EMTs are interchangeable, but paramedics undergo more intensive training and are able to perform more advanced lifesaving techniques. Some EMTs go on to become paramedics, firefighters, physician assistants, or doctors. EMTs must be in good physical shape. Most EMT courses require students to pass a weight-lifting test proving that they can lift at least 125 pounds (57 kg). Responsibilities of EMTs EMTs and paramedics treat approximately 25 to 30 million people in the United States each year. They are responsible for the following: • To respond to 911 calls for emergency medical assistance • To assess a patient’s condition and determine a course of treatment • To provide first-aid treatment or life-support care to sick or injured patients • To transport patients safely in an ambulance or helicopter to a medical facility • To report their observations and treatment to physicians, nurses, or other health care staff upon arrival at a health care facility

All of the responsibilities listed above must be carried out in an effective and orderly manner. Most of the time ambulances carry two

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EMTs and Paramedics