Online Courses for First Responders
Online first responder training programs offer courses that provide students with the knowledge they need to work as an EMT or paramedic.
- A preparatory course goes over EMTs' roles and responsibilities in patient care. It also covers medical, legal, and ethical issues, as well as the personal protection and wellbeing of first responders. Additionally, students learn correct lifting and moving techniques for patients.
- Students in an airway management course learn basic and advanced airway management techniques. They also gain familiarity with oxygen delivery machinery and therapy.
- In a patient assessment course, students learn to provide initial care using proper medical procedures and communication methods. They also learn to conduct medical and trauma emergency patient assessments, in addition to examining proper documentation procedures.
- Patient care and management in cases of internal and external bleeding, cardiac emergencies and arrests, and shock are examined in a circulation course. Students also learn CPR techniques, although this course doesn't typically include CPR certification.
- Students in an illness and injury course learn to handle many types of medical and trauma emergencies, including poisoning, respiratory distress, musculoskeletal injuries, and diabetic reactions. They also explore head and spine injuries and receive an introduction to pharmacology and drug administration.
- A childbirth and children course teaches specialized patient assessment and management methods for dealing with infants or children with medical emergencies. Also addressed are obstetrical and gynecological emergencies, including childbirth and its possible complications.
- In an EMT safety course, students learn how to take care of themselves in emergency situations that may become dangerous, covering topics like self-defense, personal protection equipment, and safety precautions.
- An anatomy and physiology course covers the basic structure and functions of human body parts and systems. It gives first responders a better understanding of the scientific underpinning of the treatments they provide.
- An ECG course, which is only available for aspiring paramedics, refreshes students' knowledge of the cardiovascular systems and trains them to read and interpret electrocardiogram (ECG) results. This allows them to provide effective treatment for patients with acute myocardial infarction.
Program Information
First responder courses are available fully online in standalone formats or as part of EMT training programs. First responder training courses typically are offered at community or technical colleges and may result in a certificate or a diploma, such as a Diploma in EMT-Basic or Paramedic. But associate's degrees are also available. Most online first responder courses are open to high school graduates and include no other prerequisites. Refresher courses and continuing education generally are required for recertification or maintenance of licensure. Some online refresher courses may require completion of an onsite skills component.
First responders can get relevant theoretical and practical training through online courses, which are commonly available as part of undergraduate certificate and degree programs. These courses cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, and circulation, as well as teach students necessary skills like CPR and patient assessment.
