What's it Like to work in a Correctional Facility as an EMT?

The practice of emergency medicine in a nontraditional setting like correctional facilities requires knowledge of medicine, criminal justice, and law. Emergency medical technicians (EMT) encounter an extensive array of medical conditions in such settings. Operating in a regimented environment requires some acclimation. All procedures involving inmates are held on camera as a safety precaution.

Vitals are typically carried out through bars, inmates have to put an arm out. The prisoners are separated only when this is not feasible. They are taken to a treatment area that is less acute or transported to the hospital. For routine medical checks, inmates have to wait for the clinic or appointed day.

As an EMT working in prison settings, you have to become accustomed to strict rules. It is not recommended you get overly familiar with the inmates. However, the majority are well-restrained in their dealings with medics. They also have an incentive for doing so; prisoners are awarded point-based privileges for good conduct. Escorts are often at hand when dealing with prisoners directly and the patients may wear chains or shackles.

Some of the challenges faced by medical professionals in correctional facilities include discharging services within a limited budget.

Duties for EMTs in Correctional Facilities

Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) help save lives by providing competent care in a timely fashion. Some of the main functions involve responding to emergencies, performing critical medical intervention, and transporting patients to medical facilities.

Some of the key tasks include:

• Responding to calls for medical assistance, such as handling life-threatening injuries or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
• Evaluating the condition of patients and making a decision on the appropriate course of action.
• Provide life support care to critically injured persons before reaching a medical facility or administer first aid on minor injuries or conditions.
• Transport patients safely in an ambulance to medical facilities.
• Transfer patients from ambulances to emergency sections at hospitals.
• Submit brief or detailed reports to physicians about observations and initial interventions.
• Clean and organize medical supplies and equipment in the ambulance.

Working in this field requires considerable stamina because it entails lifting, bending, and kneeling. You are required to follow strict health safety guidelines to avoid exposure to contagious diseases and viruses. Although combative patients are known to cause injuries in traditional medical emergency settings, working in correctional facilities lowers such risks. Inmates are usually shackled and EMTs are offered escorts when handling or transporting patients from prison to hospitals.

Work Schedules

The majority of EMTs are accustomed to working overnight, on weekends, and public holidays. It is also possible to work over 40 hours in a single week in addition to shifts in 12 or 24-hour increments.

How to Become an Emergency Medical Technician

To become eligible for a position as an EMT, you need to complete at least a postsecondary qualification. Also, you are required to obtain state licensing; however, requirements may vary based on your state. The majority of emergency medical technician training programs place the following entry requirements: cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification and a high school diploma or equivalent.

You can choose the ideal program between degree and non-degree options. The later can be completed in periods ranging from less than one year to two years. A number of leading institutions offer associate's degrees

The coursework covers wide-ranging topics, including handling emergencies, clearing obstructed airways, using field equipment, dealing with trauma, and assessing patients' conditions. Courses often include practicals in ambulance or hospital settings in addition to classroom lessons. Some programs include up to 150 hours of specialized instruction.

On the other hand, advanced levels may involve up to 400 hours of instruction. The coursework covers advanced topics, such as intravenous fluids, complex airway devices, and detailed lessons on wide-ranging medications. Paramedics undergo more demanding training, which encompasses both basic and advanced EMT coursework as well as high-level medical curriculum.

Programs leading to an associate's degree require up to 1,200 hours of instruction. The scope of studies may cover subjects like administering intravenous medications and more.

Emergency Medical Technician Certification

Certification for professionals in this field is carried out by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). To become certified, you have to take an exam that comes with both practical and written sections. NMRET certification usually translates to automatic licensing in many states.

However, background checks are conducted before the license is issued and a criminal record may lead to disqualification.

Important skills for EMTs

• Interpersonal skills – EMTs collaborate with medical professionals and service people, including police and firefighters.
• Problem-solving skills – they have to make quick decisions under stressful situations.
• Advanced driving skills – EMTs often drive ambulances in hazardous conditions or at high speed.
• Compassion – the ability to provide emotional support is vital to emergency services.

If you're interested in learning more about earning an Associate of Applied Science in Emergency Medical Services, contact an EPCI University admissions advisor today to discuss your options. With our accelerated program you could see yourself earning your degree in as little as 18 months. Don't hesitate, contact an admissions advisor today!

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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