According to pa-ems.org, the first responder is the first person to arrive at the scene. His job is to stabilize the patient until other, more advanced personnel arrive. The FR is trained to do general patient assessment and provide care such as control of bleeding, immobilizing the spine and administering oxygen. He can use the defibrillator and provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
A first responder must be at least 16. The training course is approximately 60 hours. It includes classroom time and practical labs. The course is followed by written and practical state examinations. Certification is valid for three years.
Next to respond is the EMT who is trained in all of the above. In addition, the EMT can accomplish complex immobilization procedures and provide airway management. She can also assist in giving certain medications.
A paramedic must have EMT certification and CRP certification. He is trained in all of the above, plus advanced patient assessment, intravenous (IV) fluid management and trauma management. The EMT-P is also trained in pharmacology, cardiology and other medical skills. A paramedic must be 18. Training may be a 14-month certification program or a two-year degree. It includes classroom lectures, practical labs, in-hospital experience and a field internship. Continuing education is required.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of emergency medical technicians and paramedics is expected to grow by 19 percent between 2006 and 2016, which is faster than the average for all occupations. One reason for this is that full-time paid EMTs and paramedics will be needed to replace unpaid volunteers who are becoming increasingly to find. Also, as a large segment of the population—aging members of the baby boom generation—becomes more likely to have medical emergencies, demand will increase for EMTs and paramedics.