Medical Provider Levels
Levels of Providers & Descriptions*
EMT-Basic
Trained to use Basic Life Support (BLS) skills. An EMT-B represents the first level of the EMS System. EMT-B's are trained to care to assess a patient's condition and manage respiratory, cardiac, and trauma situations.
EMT-Paramedic
Trained to use Advanced Life Support (ALS) skills. In addition to all skills listed above,an EMT-Paramedic is able to provide the most extensive prehospital care. Paramedics may administer drugs orally or intravenously, interpret electrocardiograms (EKG's),perform endotracheal intubations, and use monitors and other more complex equipment.
Registered Nurse (RN)
A nurse who has graduated from a formal program of nursing education (diploma school,associate degree or baccalaureate program) and is licensed by the appropriate state authority. They are responsible for the nature and quality of all nursing care that patients receive. Regardless of degree, they have many hours of clinical experience.
Physician
A person licensed to practice medicine; a medical doctor. A person who practices general medicine as distinct from surgery. A person who heals or exerts a healing influence.
Guidelines for Choosing Level of Provider:
While there is no exact science to determine the most appropriate level of care for your event, here are some guidelines that may help you during this decision making process:
1.What is the number of participants attending your event?
a. We use the guideline of one EMT-B for the first 1,500 people.
b. If more than 1,500 people are expected, we would recommend using a higher level of care, such as an EMT-Paramedic.
2.Are there circumstances which would require a higher level of care at your event.
a. An event primarily for senior citizens?
b. An event primarily for infant or children?
c. Where, when, and what time of year will your event be held?
*Follows the Washington, D.C. Licensing Guidelines