RETURN TO UCEMS PUBLIC INFORMATION
The EMT-Basic is the minimum level required in the state of South Carolina that MUST be on an ambulance. The EMT is a basic life support provider (with 110 hours of training), trained in CPR, First Aid including bleeding control, bandaging and splinting, and oxygen administration. The EMT is also trained to operate an AED, which is an automated heart defibrillator that delivers a shock to patients in cardiac arrest. EMT classes are administered at some local colleges , technical schools, and EMS training sites throughout the state. To learn more about becoming an EMT, contact DHEC-EMS.
EMT- Intermediate
The EMT- Intermediate is an EMT-B with additional training. In addition to all EMT-B skills, the EMT- Intermediate (with 200-400 hours of training) can initiate and administer IV fluids and perform advanced airway procedures.
EMT-Paramedic
The EMT-Paramedic is the highest trained provider. In addition to mastering all EMT-B and EMT-I skills, the EMT- Paramedic (with 1,000 or more hours of training) can perform advanced airway procedures (such as emergency surgical airways), administer breathing and cardiac (including resuscitative) medications, perform cardiac monitoring, manually pace and defibrillate a heart, RSI (paralyzing a person in order to insert a breathing tube which is sometimes necessary in cases of major trauma), decompress a collapsed lung (by inserting a needle into the chest to relieve trapped air), and other various skills. To become a Paramedic in SC, you must either pass the National Registry requirements (NREMT), or transfer your certification from another state (process called reciprocity) if applicable. Contact SC-DHEC-EMS for more information.