Riverland Community College

Emergency Medical Care Certificate Overview

What is it?

The Emergency Medical Care (EMC) Certificate program offers comprehensive training for individuals aiming to start their careers in Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance services. This program not only equips you with essential medical skills but also includes valuable ride-along clinical experiences with local Ambulance Services.

Key Benefits:

• National Registry Certification: Successful completion of the certificate may lead to eligibility for National Registry certification.
• Spanish Language Skills: The program emphasizes Spanish communication skills tailored for EMS personnel, meeting the demand of employers.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates are well-prepared for employment as EMTs in both Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) medical transportation services. The certificate also lays the groundwork for those considering a paramedic career.

Typical Work Tasks for EMTs and Paramedics

• Administering both IV and non-IV medications
• Implementing advanced life support techniques
• Patient positioning for treatments or exams
• Emergency medical treatment
• Recording patient medical histories
• Maintaining up-to-date medical knowledge
• Sterilizing medical equipment
• Monitoring patient progress
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals

Employment Outlook in Minnesota

• Current Employment: Approximately 4,230 individuals work in this sector in Minnesota.
• Work Environments: EMTs and Paramedics typically find employment in:
  • Ambulatory Health Care Services
  • Hospitals
  • Nursing and Residential Care Facilities
  • Amusement, Gambling, and Recreation Industries

Program Requirements

• DHS Background Study: Students must complete a Department of Human Services background study, initiated through the college's Allied Health Department.
• 10 patient contacts in a ride along setting is one of the requirements for EMT Certification.

Certification and Training at Riverland

• Certified by the EMSRB: Riverland offers a range of certified training courses, including Emergency Medical Responder, EMT, and various refresher and transition courses.
• International Trauma Life Support: As the Minnesota Chapter for ITLS, Riverland provides both basic and advanced ITLS training, including Pediatric Trauma Life Support.
• American Heart Association Courses: Certification courses for First Aid/CPR, Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition (PEARS) are available, taught by certified AHA instructors.

Contact Information

For more details or to schedule a class/training session, please reach out to Wanda Staska at 800-247-5039 ext 0615 or email wanda.mccoy@riverland.edu.

Last Updated: March 27, 2024