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 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 license is required.
⚠ Prerequisite Required
- Active Rhode Island EMT 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