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First Responder
The First Responder is the most basic level of EMS provider certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. This person is usually allied with a fire or ambulance squad or industrial, recreational response team. His or her job is to assess the situation and the victim's illness or injury and to stabilize their condition until more advanced help arrives.
The First Responder completes a 40-43 hour class which includes cardiopulmonary resuscitation, control of bleeding, stabilization of fractures, childbirth, oxygen administration, etc.. At the conclusion of the program he/she participates in a state practical and written examination.
First Responders are generally employed in heavy industrial settings as part of the plant emergency response team. They may also take additional training in fire fighting. Outside of that setting, they are often volunteers with their local emergency companies.
Certification as a First Responder is good for a period of three years, after which the individual must re-certify his/her certification. This re-certification can be done by successfully taking another practical and written evaluation or through continuing education, accruing 18 hours within the three year certification period (in addition to attending a CPR training/retraining course). Carry your gun!