[Art]

I'm an EMT-B, or as we generally refer to them here, EMT I (as in one). I do not have National Registry, but that is because I really don't need it. I am certified in the Nor-Cal EMS region, and will soon be a Nevada State EMT. In my county we do not have EMT II (Intermediate), but they are in Nevada. The EMT scope of practice is being increased in California to include IM narcan and glucagon, as well as good stuff like FSBS and SL Nitro/Aspirin. I don't know about the rest of ya'll, but we can only currently assist with a patients' own nitro or oral glucose. Our scope in Cali is pathetic.

Anyhow, I got my license in June of 03, so I am coming up on two years. I did not have any prior EMS training or experience, outside of watching ER and Third Watch. I just thought it would be a fun job until I found something I really wanted to do.

Turns out, this is what I really want to do.

So, I work on an ambulance crew in rural northern california. we do not get a whole lot of calls, but we do get some "good" ones.

I also work in our hospital as an ER tech, which can be just as fun. I love it all.

In August, I hope to start Paramedic school in Reno, NV, which is an hour away, with REMSA, which is the transporting ambulance company for the whole Reno area. I am so excited. You have no idea.

So. It started as, yeah, it would be rad to drive the ambulance. It turned into... wow. What an awesome career. So, I am very happy.

Oh, and as for pay... all of the clerks and operators make more money than I do. Our Medics are fairly well paid, but the EMTs make squat. It's kind of sad that we are near the bottom of the ladder, but people just have this perception that we are nothing but ambulance drivers.

[Legolas]

I passed my NJ state exams and got my certification card today.

As soon as I am 18, I am taking the national registry exams so I can add the "NR" to the EMT title.

[Art]

Originally Posted by Legolas

I passed my NJ state exams and got my certification card today.

As soon as I am 18, I am taking the national registry exams so I can add the "NR" to the EMT title.

Wow... You can't get EMT in my region at all if you are under 18.

Ohh, and... CONGRATULATIONS! Rock on.

[3e3c3e]

Originally Posted by Legolas

I passed my NJ state exams and got my certification card today.

As soon as I am 18, I am taking the national registry exams so I can add the "NR" to the EMT title.

Congrats!

~3e3c3e