Students explore emergency services professions

Allied Health students had the opportunity to hear and learn directly from local Nelson County first responders this month.

On Feb. 28, Nelson County EMS workers gave the ATC students insight into the many options in their field. The first week of March, Bardstown Fire Department provided a look at the day in the life of a firefighter.

With EMS, the students participated in mock scenarios where they were able to utilize their CPR and first aid skills that they were recently certified on. Students were able to explore the life of a paramedic and the education required to become certified as an EMT or EMR. 

Students were also able to explore the ambulance and hear stories of some of the cases that they have worked on. Students really enjoyed this opportunity. Students ended the week by showing gratitude to first responders of our community by sending them notes to show our appreciation. 

The following week, the students learned about fire safety from BFD as part of the emergency procedures portion of the Allied Health course. Fire safety is content material that the students could see as they take their NOCTI healthcare certification exam at the beginning of May.

“These experiences offer an authentic exposure for students and enables them to connect what they are learning in the classroom to professions that make a difference in people’s lives and our community,” said Brittany Newton, a Health Sciences leader at the Area Technology Center. 

Eva Prewitt, education and compliance officer for Nelson County EMS, expressed interest in exploring the possibility for future collaboration and possible EMT training for senior students. The training could lead to potential EMT certification and even dual-credit options through their very own EMT instructor. 

“Building excitement and awareness of the EMS career choice opens all facets within emergency medical and career fire services,” Prewitt said. “There are endless advancements in higher levels of EMS care, management, administrators, dispatch.”