Emergency Room Basic EMT

The Emergency Department EMT-Basic (EMT-B) functions as a member of the emergency department clinical team, providing basic life support care under the direction of licensed nursing staff and physicians. The EMT-B supports patient assessment, stabilization, vascular access (as approved), transport readiness, and interfacility transfers. This role enhances emergency response capability, improves patient throughput, and ensures safe, timely transfers to higher levels of care.

Key Responsibilities Patient Care Support Assist with initial patient intake, vital signs, and basic assessment Provide EMT-B level care in accordance with state scope of practice and hospital protocols Assist with airway support (oxygen therapy, basic airway adjuncts, suctioning) Assist with wound care, splinting, bleeding control, and patient stabilization Perform CPR and utilize AED as indicated Initiate peripheral IV access when authorized by hospital policy, medical director approval, and demonstrated competency Monitor patient condition and promptly report changes to nursing staff Note: EMT-Basic staff do not administer medications unless explicitly allowed by state scope and hospital policy.

Emergency Department Operations Support resuscitation efforts in trauma, cardiac, and medical emergencies Assist with patient movement and transport within the facility Prepare patients for diagnostic testing, procedures, and transfer Maintain cleanliness, organization, and readiness of ED equipment and rooms Restock supplies and assist with crash cart readiness Participate in hospital emergency response (codes, disaster events, mass casualty incidents) Interfacility Transfers Responsible for assisting with and completing patient transfers out of the facility while on duty Provide Basic Life Support (BLS) care during transport in accordance with EMT-B scope of practice Assist in packaging, moving, and securing patients for transport Support higher-level personnel (AEMT/Paramedic/RN) during advanced transports as needed Ensure accurate completion of transfer documentation and communication with receiving facilities Maintain readiness of transport equipment and vehicles (if applicable) Floating Responsibilities The EMT may be required to float to other departments or areas of the hospital, as assigned, to assist with patient care activities and operational support duties within the scope of training, certification, and hospital policy.

Responsibilities may include assisting nursing staff, transporting patients, obtaining vital signs, stocking supplies, equipment cleaning, clerical support, and other miscellaneous duties necessary to support safe and efficient hospital operations. The EMT will maintain flexibility and professionalism while collaborating with interdisciplinary team members to meet patient care and organizational needs. Documentation & Communication Accurately document patient care and observations in the electronic medical record Document IV attempts and successful access per hospital policy (if authorized) Communicate effectively with nurses, physicians, EMS crews, and receiving facilities Provide clear handoff reports during transitions of care Safety & Compliance Follow infection control and safety protocols Maintain EMT-B certification and required continuing education Maintain documented competency validation for IV access (if applicable) Adhere to hospital policies, regulatory requirements, and departmental standards

Current Texas EMT-Basic certification (or NREMT EMT with Texas eligibility) Current BLS certification (required) Valid driver’s license (required if participating in transport) IV certification/competency validation (required if performing IV access) Previous EMS or healthcare experience preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Strong basic patient care and observation skills Ability to safely perform peripheral IV access (if authorized) Ability to function in a fast-paced, high-stress environment Effective communication and teamwork skills Understanding of Basic Life Support (BLS) protocols Ability to function as part of a transport team Physical Requirements Ability to lift and move patients and equipment (50–100 lbs with assistance) Prolonged standing, walking, bending, and physical activity Ability to work in confined transport environments Exposure to bloodborne pathogens and emergency conditions Work Environment Hospital Emergency Department and transport settings Exposure to trauma, critical illness, and stressful situations Rotating shifts including nights, weekends, holidays, and coordination with on-call staff Supervision Reports directly to the Emergency Department Director or designated RN charge nurse, with clinical oversight by attending physicians.

Performs IV access and other delegated skills under physician and/or RN supervision in accordance with approved protocols.