This course provides the first phase of training in pre-hospital medicine. It includes all skills necessary for the individual to provide emergency medical care at a Basic Life Support (BLS) level with an ambulance service or other specialized service. Specifically, after successful completion of the program, the student will be capable of performing the following skills:

• Recognize the nature and seriousness of the patient's condition or extent of injuries to assess requirements for emergency medical care;
• Administer appropriate emergency medical care based on assessment findings of the patient's condition;
• Lift, move, position, and otherwise handle the patient to minimize discomfort and prevent further injury; and,
• Perform safely and effectively the expectations of the EMT job description.

Specialty courses may be added to the curriculum to enhance professional development.

The Avera St. Luke's EMT program follows the Department of Transportation Guidelines consisting of 110 hours of class time including lectures, practical skills, and hospital emergency department observation. Upon completion of the program, graduates are awarded a certificate of completion and are eligible to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Written and Practical Examination.

Pre-requisite: Must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible for the National Registry Exam

Pre-requisite: CPR for Healthcare Provider