About This Program
The Advanced EMT-Cardiac (AEMT-C) is a licensure level unique to Rhode Island, administered by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) EMS Division. It bridges the gap between EMT-Basic and Paramedic, significantly expanding scope of practice with peripheral IV therapy, advanced airway management, and expanded medication administration. AHA ACLS and PALS certifications are included. The AEMT-C credential is actively sought by Rhode Island fire departments and private ALS ambulance companies and is a critical unlock for fire department ALS hiring eligibility in Rhode Island. An active RI EMT-Basic license is required.
⚠ Prerequisite Required
- Active Rhode Island EMT-Basic License
What You'll Learn
- Peripheral IV catheter insertion: site selection, catheter sizes, tourniquet technique, successful insertion, and IV securement across difficult-access patients
- IV fluid therapy: normal saline, Lactated Ringer's, D5W; flow rate calculations, drip set use, and fluid bolus indications for shock
- IV medication administration: push dosing techniques, dilution calculations, compatibility checking, and patient monitoring parameters
- Advanced airway management: King LT and i-gel supraglottic airway insertion, direct laryngoscopy for endotracheal intubation, and post-intubation confirmation
- Expanded pharmacology: adenosine, amiodarone, atropine, dopamine, furosemide, glucagon, morphine, midazolam, albuterol, and epinephrine infusion
- 12-lead EKG acquisition, basic STEMI recognition, and hospital transmission workflow using cardiac monitor/defibrillators
- AHA ACLS algorithms: cardiac arrest VF/VT and PEA/asystole protocols, tachyarrhythmia and bradyarrhythmia management, post-resuscitation care, STEMI activation
- AHA PALS algorithms: pediatric assessment triangle, systematic approach, recognition and management of respiratory failure, compensated and decompensated shock, and pediatric cardiac arrest
Program Outcomes
- Credential 1: Rhode Island Advanced EMT-Cardiac (AEMT-C) License — issued by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) EMS Division; a licensure level unique to Rhode Island
- Credential 2: AHA Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Provider certification (2-year) — American Heart Association
- Credential 3: AHA Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) Provider certification (2-year) — American Heart Association
- Eligible employers: Rhode Island fire departments (primary hiring advantage for ALS-level appointments), private ALS ambulance services, hospital-based EMS programs
- Estimated RI starting wage: $22–$30/hr; significantly higher with fire department ALS differential pay