Advanced emergency medical technician

Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) is a level of prehospital emergency medical services provider beyond the level of an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). The AEMT has additional training and skills in the assessment and management of patients in the prehospital environment. This article provides an overview of the role, training, and responsibilities of an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician.

Overview

An Advanced Emergency Medical Technician is trained to provide basic and limited advanced emergency medical care and transportation for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical system. AEMTs have expanded their skills beyond the EMT level to include the administration of intravenous fluids, the use of advanced airway devices, and the administration of some medications.

Training and Certification

Training for an AEMT typically requires completion of an accredited program that includes both classroom instruction and practical experience. The curriculum covers topics such as advanced patient assessment, pharmacology, airway management, and emergency procedures. Upon completion of the training program, candidates must pass a national certification examination administered by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) or a similar certifying body.

Prerequisites

Before enrolling in an AEMT course, individuals must usually hold a current certification as an EMT. Additionally, some programs may require candidates to have a certain amount of practical experience as an EMT.

Scope of Practice

The scope of practice for AEMTs includes all skills of the EMT, plus more advanced interventions. Key aspects of the AEMT scope of practice include:

• Intravenous (IV) therapy
• Administration of certain emergency medications
• Advanced airway management techniques, including the use of supraglottic airway devices
• Basic cardiac life support
• Monitoring of blood glucose levels

The specific interventions and medications that an AEMT can administer vary by jurisdiction and are governed by local and state regulations.

Roles and Responsibilities

AEMTs play a critical role in the emergency medical services (EMS) system. They respond to emergency calls, providing medical care at the scene and during transport to a healthcare facility. Their advanced skills enable them to manage more complex patient conditions than EMTs. Responsibilities of an AEMT include:

• Conducting thorough patient assessments
• Providing advanced airway management
• Administering IV fluids and medications as authorized
• Monitoring and interpreting vital signs
• Communicating effectively with patients, family members, and other healthcare professionals
• Documenting patient care
• Maintaining equipment and ensuring readiness for emergency response

Employment

AEMTs are employed in a variety of settings, including ambulance services, fire departments, hospitals, and other agencies involved in emergency response and patient transport. The demand for AEMTs and other EMS professionals is expected to grow as the population ages and the need for emergency services increases.

Continuing Education and Advancement

To maintain certification, AEMTs must complete continuing education requirements, which may include refresher courses, workshops, and other professional development activities. Opportunities for advancement within the EMS field include becoming a Paramedic, which requires additional education and training.