If you have ever thought about being an EMT in the state of Washington, reading this may make it easier for you to decide and help you in taking the crucial first steps.
In order to become certified in the state of Washington, you must undergo your EMT training in the state, where you will become certified, which enables you to practice pre-hospital skills in this field. Training for Applicants is available for all 8 levels of EMS service, which includes EMT Basic. After completing EMT training in Washington, an EMT must pass the NERMT examinations in order to gain certification in the state.
The state of Washington stipulates that the following criteria must be met in order for a candidate to go on and receive their EMT certification (please view the link under “Other Information” below for additional requirements):
- Must be 18 years of age
- Pass a state written examination
The Trauma Prevention Policy # 21 requirements of the Department of Health and Office of Emergency Medical are that students must complete ten hours of observation within a hospital setting as part of their successful completion of the EMT course in any combination of the following list:
- Coronary Care Unit
- Intensive Care Unit
- Ob-Gyn
- Recovery room
- Additional departments approved by the MPD
- Five hours of ambulatory runs for injured and sick people can be used as part of the 10 required hours.
The state of Washington also has additional requirements with EMT training that include hours of
instruction, practical skills evaluations, and the successful completion of patient interactions in a clinical setting. In this training physician offices, clinics, or emergency departments can be used and the program director will establish proper relationships with a variety of clinical sites to make sure enough contact is made with patients. A student will be required to access and interview at least five patients. Students will familiarize themselves record patient assessment and history to include pre-hospital history in the MIR also known as the Medical Incident Report of this state the same way they would when dealing with a patient in a real life situation
The final step for an individual completing EMT training in Washington includes a SEI issuing a certificate of course completion which makes them eligible to take the Washington State written certification test. Before issuing the certificate the SEI be assured that the student has:
- Psycho-motor, affective, and comprehensive cognitive abilities
- Successful completion of the field/clinical rotation
Being an EMT is interesting, exciting and offers individuals great opportunities to stretch themselves. The training is only the beginning of a career that is full of challenges where someone can work in an environment where they can really make a difference to the world where they live.
Other Information:
EMT Requirements in the State of Washington
Accredited EMT Training Programs in Washington
Office of Emergency Medical Services and Trauma System
P.O. Box 47853,
Olympia, WA, 98504-7853
(360) 236-2828