FCTS Health Tech students enroll in EMT training program

The Health Technology program at the Franklin County Technical School (FCTS) in Turners Falls has implemented an exciting new emergency medical technician (EMT) training program in collaboration with the Greenfield Community College Division of Health Occupations and Baystate Health Ambulance. Five senior health technology students are participating in this 200 hour course. Students are eligible for 6 college credits through GCC upon successful completion of the course, as well as being prepared to sit for the practical exam which would lead to certification as EMT-basic.

The course is being taught on site at the technical school by Sandy Mizula, a paramedic with 30 years of experience in emergency medicine. The course started in September, and will meet every other week 1 full day and 2 ˝ days through March. Students receive extensive classroom instruction, as well as practical training in such skills as CPR, first aid, use of a long board, patient assessment, applying a cervical collar, and other aspects of pre-hospital/trauma care.

In November, students involved in this program held a publicity event where they demonstrated the skills they’ve learned in the course to date. Baystate Health Ambulance, GCC and FCTS staff collaborated in the planning and implementing of the demonstrations that covered care in accident situations, cardiac emergencies and monitoring of vital signs.

 

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