Emergency Medical Responder Certificate

The primary focus of the Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) is to initiate immediate lifesaving care at the scene of an emergency for ill or injured patients. This individual possesses the basic knowledge and skills necessary to provide lifesaving interventions while awaiting additional EMS response and to assist higher-level personnel at the scene and during transport. Emergency Medical Responders function as part of a comprehensive EMS response, under medical oversight. Emergency Medical Responders perform basic interventions with minimal equipment.

The Emergency Medical Responder’s scope of practice includes simple skills focused on lifesaving interventions for critical patients. Typically, the Emergency Medical Responder renders on-scene emergency care while awaiting additional EMS response and may serve as part of the transporting crew, but not as the primary caregiver.

In many communities, Emergency Medical Responders provide a mechanism to increase the likelihood that trained personnel and lifesaving equipment can be rapidly deployed to serious emergencies. In all cases, Emergency Medical Responders are part of a tiered response system. Emergency Medical Responders work alongside other EMS and health care professionals as an integral part of the emergency care team.

The Emergency Medical Responder’s scope of practice includes simple, non-invasive interventions to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with acute out-of-hospital medical and traumatic emergencies. Emergency care is based on assessment findings. Additionally, the Emergency Medical Responder provides care designed to minimize secondary injury and comfort the patient and family while awaiting additional EMS resources.

(Major Code 3550; CIP Code 51.0810)

Emergency Medical Science Program web page

Required Course

EMS 129

Emergency Medical Responder*

6

Total Program Hours: 6 

*

This course has registration requirements.