Emergency Medical Technicians

Emergency Medical Technicians are on the front line of emergency medical services. No two days are ever the same for EMTs, who play a critical role in their communities by providing urgent care on the scene that saves lives. EMTs have a demanding job, but for the brave, strong, compassionate people who serve in this role, it is a greatly rewarding career.

determine the nature and severity of injuries

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT)

The Job

  • Assess and determine the nature and severity of injuries working alongside paramedics, police, and firefighters.
  • Transport patients while monitoring and providing care during the ride, which could vary from routine to life-threatening emergencies.

You’ll do other things like:

  • Respond to 911 calls for emergency medical assistance
  • Inform hospital staff about injuries/illness, number of patients, and expected time of arrival
  • Use backboards and restraints to keep the patient still and safe during transport
  • Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
  • Bandage wounds, control external bleeding, prevent shock and further injury
  • Transport patients between facilities
  • Maintain patient records

EMT training

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Be at least 18 years old (or 16 years old with limited scope of practice)
  • Complete an EMT training program lasting up to approximately 150 hours
  • Pass National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician exam or State Initial Exam
    • Written EMT Cognitive Exam
      • Topics include airway, respiration, ventilation, cardiology, resuscitation, trauma, medical, OBGYN, and EMS operations
  • Pass the EMT psychomotor exam administered by WV OEMS
  • Current CPR card
  • Pass background check

Who employs EMTs?

  • Private and public ambulance services
  • Fire departments
  • Hospitals
  • Police departments

EMT programs in West Virginia

  • Blue Ridge Community and Technical College
  • Mountwest Community and Technical College
  • Other programs as approved or conducted by WV OEMS.

Affordable training

There is a minimal cost for EMT training and assistance may be available.