How to Become an EMT According to Firuz Barotov
Firuz Barotov began his professional career working with Children at Beam Center in Brooklyn New York where he designed and facilitated project-based STEM lessons for children in grades K-5. Inspired by the diverse ethnic and social backgrounds of this learning community, Firuz took his passion for helping others to the next level and decided to pursue a career as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Since 2019, Barotov has been working in the medical industry as an EMT while continuously striving for self-improvement and advancement. Having enjoyed his experience as an EMT, Barotov has recently decided to pursue further education to become a registered nurse.
The road to becoming an EMT can feel overwhelming with so much information available. There are a variety of programs with different requirements that can make the whole process confusing. For aspiring EMTs, certified technician Firuz Barotov, decided to sit down and highlight what is really needed to get into the profession.
Complete Basic Education
While working on his EMT certification, Barotov also graduated from the College of Staten Island with an Associate’s degree in Applied Science. Although EMTs are not required to have a bachelor’s degree, they do need to have a high school diploma or general education diploma (GED). If you are interested in a career as an EMT, Barotov advises completing any remaining coursework for your diploma and perhaps even focusing on the sciences (like biology) if given the choice.
CPR Certification
Many training and certificate programs will require students to already possess CPR certification. Luckily, many local community centers as well as the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association offer certification programs to the public. Normally these programs only require a day or two and can be completed over the weekend. In some cases, you may be able to obtain certification online.
Choose an EMT Program
To be considered for certification, all candidates must complete a state-approved program in emergency medical technology. Barotov advises choosing an accredited program in order to avoid any problems upon graduation. If you already have your eye set on a program, cross-reference it with The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs’ database of accredited programs in each state. Most often, accredited programs are administered by emergency care training facilities, colleges, and trade or technical schools. Most programs will take less than a year to complete if studying full-time.
Cognitive Exam
Once you have completed your EMT program, you will be prepared to take the cognitive exam required by the National Registry. The exam is administered on a computer and is comprised of 60 to 110 questions. The exam will cover many of the topics an EMT will need to know for working the job, including respiratory management, trauma and wound dressing, cardiology and resuscitation, and gynecology and obstetrics. Other topics might include emergency medical services operations, protocols, and more. Hopeful EMTs must demonstrate a standard level of competency in order to pass the exam.
According to Baratov, while the exam requires individuals to have mastered their skill, the real test happens on the job, and it is through years of experience in real-life scenarios that ultimately prepares one for any situation.
Psychomotor Exam
This exam requires hopefuls to demonstrate their emergency skills. The exam is administered by the state’s emergency management services offices or training institutions and covers practical skills. Examinees may be asked to conduct patient assessments, handle cardiac emergencies, immobilize spines or dislocated joints, control bleeding, and manage shock. “This exam is as close as it gets to the real deal,” says Barotov. “It’s important, practice.”
Conclusion
If you are interested in a career as an EMT, all requirements can be completed in about one to three years, depending on where you start, says Barotov. It is a fast-paced career choice for those who work well under pressure, thrive in high-stress situations, and are prepared for the demands of the job. He further states that the best EMTs demonstrate a high level of humility and patience, and it has taken him years to harness his skill set. For Firuz Barotov, it has been an exceptional experience in supporting his local community and he looks forward to a lifelong career helping others.
