Diver medical technician

Diver medical technician (DMT) is a specialized role within the field of underwater diving, where practitioners are trained to respond to medical emergencies that can occur in the diving environment. DMTs are often part of a dive team and are responsible for the emergency medical care of the divers within the team.

Training and Certification[edit | edit source]

Training for a DMT typically includes a combination of classroom instruction, practical skills training, and field experience. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including diving medicine, emergency medical response, hyperbaric medicine, and the use of diving and medical equipment.

Certification as a DMT is typically offered by professional diving organizations and requires successful completion of a training program and a certification exam. Some organizations that offer DMT certification include the National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology (NBDHMT) and the Divers Alert Network (DAN).

Role and Responsibilities[edit | edit source]

The primary role of a DMT is to provide emergency medical care to divers. This can include administering first aid, providing oxygen therapy, and performing advanced life support procedures. In addition, DMTs are often responsible for monitoring the health and fitness of divers, conducting pre-dive medical checks, and advising on medical fitness to dive.

DMTs may also be involved in the planning and execution of dives, particularly in relation to safety and emergency procedures. This can include developing emergency response plans, maintaining medical and safety equipment, and providing medical support during dive operations.

Related Professions[edit | edit source]

Related professions to the DMT include the hyperbaric technician, who operates hyperbaric chambers used in the treatment of diving-related illnesses, and the diving medical officer, a medical doctor specialized in diving medicine.