NSXNational Skills ExchangeSign in
Back to Framework

Emergency Medical Technicians

SOC 29-2042.00Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers pre-hospital emergency medical care delivered by EMTs across field response, patient assessment, clinical intervention, transport, documentation, and organizational leadership contexts calibrated to Job Zone 3 preparation levels.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Patient vital signs — measure and record under direct supervisor guidance at an emergency scene or training simulation.
  2. Basic life support protocols — apply following established checklists during supervised field response calls.
  3. Patient medical histories — collect initial information by questioning and listening during supervised patient intake.
  4. Emergency medical equipment — identify, inspect, and stage under direction prior to shift deployment.
  5. Radio communication procedures — use standard terminology to relay patient status to receiving hospital staff under supervision.
  6. Scene safety assessments — perform preliminary hazard recognition checks before approaching an incident under EMT oversight.
  7. Spinal immobilization devices — apply cervical collars and backboards following step-by-step protocols under direct instruction.
  8. Patient observation findings — document basic signs and symptoms using agency-approved paper or electronic run reports.
  9. Oxygen delivery systems — set up and administer supplemental oxygen following prescribed flow rates under supervisor direction.
  10. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation — execute adult, child, and infant CPR cycles in accordance with current AHA guidelines during supervised responses.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Neuromusculoskeletal assessments — conduct structured physical examinations to identify motor deficits and injury patterns during routine emergency calls.
  2. Patient medical histories — obtain and record comprehensive histories independently by integrating questioning, observation, and chart review on scene.
  3. Critical thinking under pressure — analyze multiple patient symptoms simultaneously to prioritize treatment decisions with reduced supervisor oversight.
  4. Medication administration — prepare and administer approved EMT-level medications following standing orders in pre-hospital care settings.
  5. Electronic patient care reports — complete accurate, detailed documentation within required timeframes using agency medical software after each call.
  6. Patient communication — explain procedures and provide reassurance clearly to anxious or injured patients across diverse community settings.
  7. Trauma triage — apply START or similar triage systems to categorize multiple patients during mass casualty incidents with minimal direction.
  8. Airway management — perform bag-valve-mask ventilation and airway adjunct insertion for compromised patients during field emergencies.
  9. Pediatric patient assessment — adapt examination and treatment approaches for infant and child patients in home or school emergency settings.
  10. Monitoring changes in patient condition — track and interpret ongoing vital sign trends during transport to adjust care plans appropriately.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex patient assessments — integrate health history, physical examination findings, and clinical indicators autonomously to form differential impressions in high-acuity field situations.
  2. Non-routine emergency management — develop and execute individualized care plans for atypical presentations, including multi-system trauma and behavioral health crises.
  3. Advanced airway interventions — perform supraglottic airway placement and ventilator management during critical transports with full clinical independence.
  4. Spinal and musculoskeletal evaluation — assess neuromusculoskeletal system integrity using systematic examination techniques to guide immobilization and transport decisions.
  5. Pharmacological interventions — administer expanded formulary medications under medical direction protocols, adjusting dosing based on evolving patient response.
  6. Quality data documentation — produce thorough, legally defensible electronic patient care reports that support billing, quality review, and continuity of care.
  7. Interprofessional coordination — communicate detailed patient handoff reports to emergency department physicians and nurses using SBAR format during hospital transitions.
  8. Community health navigation — identify social determinants of health during patient encounters and connect individuals to appropriate community resources.
  9. Critical incident judgment — exercise independent decision making to determine transport destination, mode, and priority level across varied urban and rural environments.
  10. Technology integration — utilize information retrieval and medical software tools to reference protocols and clinical guidelines in real time during complex calls.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Agency protocol development — lead the design and revision of evidence-based clinical operating procedures that govern EMT practice across the organization.
  2. Clinical education programs — develop and deliver structured training curricula for new and continuing EMT staff using adult learning principles and simulation technology.
  3. Quality improvement initiatives — analyze patient care report data at an organizational level to identify trends and implement system-wide performance improvements.
  4. Medical director partnership — collaborate with physician medical directors to expand scope-of-practice guidelines and formulary approvals aligned with community health needs.
  5. Multi-agency incident command — serve as medical group supervisor during large-scale mass casualty events, directing triage and treatment resources across multiple crews.
  6. Mentorship and competency evaluation — assess EMT candidate performance during field internships and provide structured feedback that shapes workforce capability.
  7. Organizational policy leadership — set strategic direction for equipment procurement, vehicle deployment, and staffing models to optimize emergency response capacity.
  8. Community health advocacy — represent the EMS agency at public health forums and government bodies to influence pre-hospital care standards and funding priorities.
  9. Interdisciplinary program coordination — align EMS operations with hospital emergency departments, public safety agencies, and social services to build integrated care pathways.
  10. Research and innovation adoption — evaluate emerging pre-hospital clinical evidence and technology solutions, leading pilot programs to advance agency practice at the systems level.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted documentation lookup — references AI tools to retrieve drug interaction tables, protocol guidelines, and dosage ranges during non-emergency preparation, cross-checking results against agency-approved protocols before use Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Patient history transcription support — uses AI-assisted voice-to-text or structured input tools to capture and organize scene observations and patient vitals into preliminary run reports, reserving clinical judgment for all assessment decisions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Protocol navigation assistance — queries AI tools between calls to locate regional EMS protocol updates or unfamiliar medication references, verifying every output against medical director-approved standing orders Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Real-time triage decision support — engages AI clinical decision tools to cross-reference presenting symptoms against differential possibilities during patient hand-off preparation, while retaining full authority over field triage classification Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Run report generation — directs AI transcription and documentation tools to draft patient care reports from scene notes and verbal dictation, then reviews and corrects every clinical detail before submission Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Training scenario debriefing — uses AI-generated case simulations and after-action summaries to reinforce critical thinking on atypical presentations, applying lessons directly to active listening and scene assessment skills WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. AI tool evaluation for field integration — assesses the fitness of emerging AI clinical decision-support applications for EMS workflows by auditing outputs against evidence-based protocols, identifying where the low AI autonomy profile of field medicine limits safe delegation Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Crew competency development — designs AI-supplemented training curricula that build human-technology interaction skills in junior EMTs, ensuring learners distinguish AI-generated suggestions from clinically validated standing orders WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Quality improvement synthesis — aggregates AI-analyzed run report data across response cohorts to surface patterns in patient outcomes and protocol adherence, presenting findings to medical directors to inform system-level protocol revisions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  4. Human-AI boundary governance — establishes and enforces crew-level norms defining which pre-hospital tasks qualify for AI assistance versus which demand unmediated clinical judgment, grounding decisions in the Q2 augmented-not-automated positioning of core EMT skills Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 26
Augment share: 2.6%
Time saved: 94.4%
AI autonomy: 2.46
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication12 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient intake report — gathers chief complaint and basic symptoms through structured verbal questioning during initial scene assessment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Radio communication basics — transmits patient status updates to receiving hospital using standard EMS radio protocols under supervision O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Bystander interaction — requests scene history and witness accounts using clear, calm language during emergency response Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Patient history collection — elicits accurate medical history, medication lists, and allergy information through focused questioning during pre-hospital assessment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Verbal handoff report — delivers organized SBAR-style patient report to emergency department staff at time of transfer O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Family communication — explains treatment procedures and transport decisions to distressed family members using accessible, non-clinical language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-agency field communication — coordinates patient information across fire, police, and hospital channels simultaneously during multi-casualty incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Written patient care report — documents clinical findings, interventions, and patient responses in accurate, legally defensible PCR narratives O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Difficult patient communication — de-escalates verbally agitated or altered patients using calm tone and directive language during active emergency transport Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Trainee communication coaching — models and critiques patient communication techniques for new EMTs during field preceptorship Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Inter-agency protocol briefing — presents case summaries and protocol updates to multi-disciplinary EMS teams during debriefs and training sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Documentation standard-setting — authors and refines PCR documentation guidelines for EMS unit to ensure consistent, compliant reporting O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Scene role acceptance — executes assigned tasks within the two-person EMT team structure under the direction of a senior provider during routine calls Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Self-initiated patient monitoring — continuously tracks patient vitals and reports changes without waiting for explicit direction during transport Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Scene task delegation — assigns bystander or first-responder roles such as CPR compression or equipment retrieval during cardiac arrest response Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Junior partner guidance — directs an EMT-Basic partner through skill steps such as splinting or oxygen administration during field calls Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Incident command integration — assumes EMS sector leadership role within ICS structure during mass-casualty or multi-unit events Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Scene safety authority — halts or redirects unsafe operations by crew members or bystanders to protect patient and team welfare Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Crew accountability — takes ownership of call outcomes including documentation errors and protocol deviations and implements corrective action Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Field training officer leadership — leads structured skill evaluations and performance reviews for EMT students on clinical rotations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality improvement initiative — identifies recurring protocol gaps from call review data and drives department-wide corrective training programs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Mentorship program development — designs and implements peer-mentorship structures for newly certified EMTs within the EMS organization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition9 statements
Emerging
  1. Post-call self-review — identifies one clinical decision or communication gap per shift and notes it in a personal learning log Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Protocol gap recognition — acknowledges when a patient presentation exceeds current training level and requests senior provider assistance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill confidence calibration — distinguishes between procedures performed confidently versus those requiring deliberate practice and seeks targeted simulation training Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback integration — applies specific corrective feedback from supervisors on patient assessment techniques during subsequent calls Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Real-time decision monitoring — pauses during complex multi-system trauma assessments to verify that clinical reasoning aligns with protocol before intervening Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning strategy adaptation — adjusts study approach for recertification content based on identified weak areas from practice exams and call simulations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Cognitive load awareness — recognizes when scene chaos is impairing clinical judgment and deliberately applies systematic MARCH or ABCDE frameworks to restore structure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Reflective practice modeling — facilitates post-incident debriefs that prompt crew members to examine their own reasoning and decision-making processes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Protocol application audit — systematically evaluates own call history for patterns of over- or under-triage and presents findings to medical director Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking10 statements
Emerging
  1. Chief complaint prioritization — distinguishes between life-threatening and non-life-threatening presentations using basic triage criteria during initial patient contact Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Vital sign interpretation — identifies abnormal blood pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate values and flags them for further assessment O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Differential presentation analysis — evaluates competing causes of chest pain including cardiac, pulmonary, and musculoskeletal origins using patient history and physical exam findings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Mechanism-of-injury reasoning — applies knowledge of kinematics to predict probable injury patterns in trauma patients before physical examination O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Treatment protocol selection — chooses appropriate intervention pathway from multiple standing orders based on patient presentation and contraindications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Altered mental status evaluation — systematically rules in and out hypoglycemia, hypoxia, stroke, intoxication, and psychiatric causes during field assessment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Scene evidence synthesis — integrates environmental cues, bystander reports, and physical findings to reconstruct patient timeline and guide clinical decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Transport destination judgment — weighs patient acuity, hospital capabilities, and transport time to select optimal receiving facility under time pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Protocol challenge analysis — identifies evidence gaps in existing standing orders and presents data-supported recommendations to medical oversight for revision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Complex multi-patient triage — applies START or JumpSTART triage logic to allocate limited EMS resources across multiple simultaneous casualties with conflicting priorities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Two-person lift coordination — synchronizes patient movement with partner using verbal countdown and weight-sharing during stretcher loading Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. First-responder handoff — receives scene information from fire department first responders and integrates it into initial patient assessment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Resuscitation team function — performs assigned CPR, airway, or medication role within a coordinated cardiac arrest team without requiring repeated redirection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Hospital team integration — provides concise verbal report to emergency department nurse and physician simultaneously to enable seamless care transition Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-agency scene coordination — collaborates with law enforcement, fire suppression, and incident command to manage patient access, extrication, and transport during complex incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Inter-shift knowledge transfer — communicates unresolved patient or equipment issues clearly to oncoming crew during shift handoff to ensure continuity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Medical direction collaboration — consults with online medical control physician, presents findings clearly, and incorporates orders into patient care plan O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-discipline training facilitation — co-designs and co-delivers joint mass-casualty exercises with fire and law enforcement agencies to improve inter-agency response Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Community paramedic partnership — collaborates with hospital case managers and social workers to coordinate follow-up care for high-frequency EMS utilizers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient dignity maintenance — preserves patient privacy and modesty during assessment and treatment regardless of scene conditions or patient behavior Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment accountability — reports damaged or missing equipment at shift end and does not conceal supply shortfalls from supervisors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Scope-of-practice adherence — declines to perform interventions outside EMT certification level even under pressure from patients, bystanders, or scene chaos Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest documentation — records actual times, interventions, and patient responses in PCR without omission or alteration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical refusal navigation — honors informed patient refusal of treatment after ensuring decision-making capacity is intact and documenting thoroughly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Implicit bias management — delivers identical quality of assessment and care across patient populations regardless of socioeconomic status, substance use history, or behavior Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Colleague accountability — respectfully addresses observed safety violations or protocol deviations by partners rather than allowing them to continue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethics consultation leadership — facilitates crew discussions on difficult ethical scenarios such as do-not-resuscitate honoring and family conflict to build team moral reasoning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional conduct standard-setting — models and enforces behavioral standards of professionalism, patient respect, and accountability across the EMS unit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity9 statements
Emerging
  1. Resource improvisation — adapts available materials such as clothing, belts, or improvised splints when standard equipment is unavailable at scene Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Alternative access identification — identifies non-standard entry routes to reach a patient in an inaccessible location in coordination with crew Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Communication adaptation — invents alternative communication strategies for non-verbal, hearing-impaired, or non-English-speaking patients to obtain accurate history Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Scene setup problem-solving — reconfigures equipment layout in cramped or non-standard environments such as stairwells or vehicle interiors to enable effective patient care Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Protocol gap bridging — applies sound clinical reasoning to manage presentations not explicitly covered by standing orders while remaining within scope of practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient comfort innovation — develops novel positioning or distraction techniques during painful procedures to reduce patient anxiety and improve compliance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Training scenario design — creates realistic, scenario-based training drills that expose crews to low-frequency, high-acuity patient presentations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. System improvement ideation — proposes and pilots novel EMS response models such as community paramedicine or mobile integrated health programs based on identified service gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment adaptation advocacy — identifies field equipment limitations and works with supply and medical oversight to test and implement improved solutions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Certification study commitment — completes required CE coursework on schedule and seeks additional practice beyond the minimum required hours Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Error acknowledgment — accepts post-call corrective feedback on missed assessment findings without becoming defensive Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill gap pursuit — voluntarily seeks additional training in areas of documented weakness such as pediatric assessment or airway management Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Difficult call processing — reflects on high-acuity or emotionally difficult calls as learning opportunities rather than sources of avoidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Recertification rigor — prepares for NREMT recertification by reviewing challenging clinical content rather than focusing exclusively on familiar material Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer learning engagement — actively participates in case review sessions and applies lessons from colleagues' field experiences to own practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Setback reframing — returns to full operational performance after a clinical error by analyzing root cause and implementing targeted corrective action Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Continuous learning culture modeling — publicly shares own learning challenges and growth strategies to normalize ongoing development among EMS crew members Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Advanced credential pursuit — pursues paramedic certification or allied health education to expand clinical capability and career contribution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Pre-call readiness check — conducts brief equipment and mental readiness review at shift start before responding to calls Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional recognition — identifies own stress or anxiety response during high-acuity calls and applies basic self-regulation to maintain professional function Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Scene transition focus — resets mental attention between back-to-back calls to prevent carryover cognitive errors from prior patient interactions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Tunnel vision prevention — maintains situational awareness of scene hazards, bystanders, and team members while performing focused patient assessment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-stress performance regulation — applies controlled breathing or grounding techniques during pediatric codes or mass-casualty events to maintain procedural accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Active listening presence — gives full auditory and observational attention to patient verbal and non-verbal cues during history-taking without distraction from radio or bystander noise Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Post-traumatic call decompression — engages in structured defusing or peer support conversation after emotionally intense calls before returning to service Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crew mindfulness facilitation — introduces structured breathing or attentional reset practices to shift briefings to improve crew focus and reduce error rates Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Sustained high-volume shift performance — maintains consistent clinical decision quality across extended multi-call shifts through deliberate attention management strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Scene exposure tolerance — remains functional and task-focused when encountering graphic trauma, death, or mass-casualty scenes for the first time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Physical demand endurance — completes patient lifts, extended CPR, and equipment carrying across full shift without withdrawing from assigned duties Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Repeated adverse outcome persistence — continues performing at standard after unsuccessful resuscitations without disengaging from subsequent patient care Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Night shift operational consistency — maintains clinical assessment quality and decision accuracy during overnight, extended, and holiday shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained resuscitation leadership — maintains coordinated cardiac arrest management for extended resuscitation attempts exceeding 30 minutes without losing procedural discipline Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Hostile scene composure — continues patient care operations calmly when confronted by aggressive bystanders, family members, or patients in unsafe environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Cumulative call volume resilience — sustains quality clinical performance across high-volume shift periods without allowing fatigue to degrade patient assessment accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Occupational trauma recovery modeling — openly processes critical incident stress through peer support or EAP resources and returns to service as a functional role model for crew resilience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-term career sustainability — develops and practices personal wellness routines that support multi-decade EMS career health and prevent compassion fatigue and burnout Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors38 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

Suggest an O*NET correction

Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Emergency Medical Technician · Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) · Ambulance Driver · Dispatcher · Emergency Department Technician (ED Technician) · Emergency Medical Driver · Emergency Medical Responder · Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) · Emergency Medical Technician - Basic (EMT-B) · Emergency Room Technician · EMT Paramedic (Emergency Medical Technician Paramedic) · EMT-B (Emergency Medical Technician- Basic)
RAPIDS apprenticeships
0228 · Emergency Medical Technician
O*NET skills
Active ListeningCritical ThinkingReading ComprehensionSpeakingSocial PerceptivenessMonitoringJudgment and Decision MakingWriting
Knowledge domains
Medicine and DentistryCustomer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageBiologyPsychologyEducation and TrainingTherapy and CounselingComputers and Electronics
Abilities
Oral ComprehensionProblem SensitivityOral ExpressionWritten ComprehensionDeductive ReasoningInductive Reasoning
Work styles
Attention to DetailDependabilityCautiousnessIntegrityCooperationSelf-Control
Technology
Information retrieval or search softwareMedical softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwarePresentation softwareWord processing software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Evaluate the functioning of the neuromuscularskeletal system and the spine using systems of chiropractic diagn
  2. Diagnose health problems by reviewing patients' health and medical histories, questioning, observing, and exam
  3. Perform a series of manual adjustments to the spine or other articulations of the body to correct the musculos
  4. Obtain and record patients' medical histories.
CIP education codes
51.0904

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.