What is the primary responsibility of an emergency medical technician (EMT)?

The primary responsibility of an emergency medical technician (EMT) is to provide emergency prehospital care. EMTs are trained to assess patients and provide immediate, life-saving treatment in critical situations before the patient reaches a hospital. Their responsibilities include basic medical procedures such as administering CPR, controlling bleeding, providing oxygen, and stabilizing patients for transport. This is essential as they are often the first responders in emergencies, making timely and effective care crucial for patient outcomes.

In contrast, the other choices involve specialized skills that are beyond the scope of an EMT’s training. Performing surgeries typically requires the expertise of a surgeon or physician. Diagnosing chronic illnesses is a function that falls under the purview of healthcare providers such as doctors, who have the required education and experience to evaluate and diagnose complex health issues. Conducting psychological therapy is a specialized service provided by trained mental health professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, who have the appropriate qualifications and training to address mental health needs. Therefore, the role of an EMT is specifically focused on immediate care in emergency situations rather than any of these other specialized medical functions.