Final answer:
As an EMT, you will be able to administer some medications, perform advanced airway management, and conduct more comprehensive patient assessments compared to an EMR.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) expresses interest in becoming an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), it is important to understand the differences in scope of practice between the two levels of emergency medical services. As an EMT, in addition to the skills performed by an EMR, you will be able to:
- Administer some medications, such as epinephrine for allergic reactions and oxygen for respiratory problems, which are beyond the scope of practice for an EMR.
- Advanced airway management, which may include the use of advanced adjuncts to maintain an open airway.
- Perform more detailed patient assessments and make decisions regarding the need for additional care and transport to medical facilities.
The training for EMTs is more comprehensive and includes knowledge of common medical conditions as well as the ability to administer a wider range of emergency drugs compared to EMRs. EMT certification can serve as a stepping stone towards more advanced roles in emergency medical services, such as becoming a paramedic, which requires even more extensive training and knowledge.
As part of their growth, EMTs can work in diverse environments alongside firefighters or even in specialized rescue operations, with the potential for high-intensity and urgent decision-making similar to what has been experienced in ambulance and hospital settings.