Medical

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are the most requested service provided by the Fire Service. As such, members of the team are trained to the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic, EMT-Intermediate, or Paramedic level. EMS training allows for our members to rapidly assess a victim and begin providing the appropriate treatments within the New Mexico EMS scope of practice and team medical protocols. EMS providers are trained to handle a vast array of medical, trauma, and environmental related emergencies. Quickly assessing and beginning to treat a patient during rescue efforts greatly benefits the patient and may lead to a better outcome if he or she is critically injured or ill. Listed below are some of what each level can perform:

EMT-Basic

1. Patient assessment
2. Basic and supraglottic airway management / ventilatory support
3. Various medication administration
4. Splinting
5. Heat/Cold emergency management

EMT-Intermediate

1. More advanced assessment, medication administration and skill capabilities
2. Intravenous (IV) Therapy

Paramedic

1. Advanced patient assessment, medication administration and skill capabilities
2. Endotracheal intubation
3. Cardiac monitoring, EKG interpretation, cardioversion
4. Chest decompression

For more information about the medications, skills and an idea of medical protocols associated with EMS, please refer to the following links:

Skills

Medications

Medical Protocols