Emergency Medical Services

The Emergency Medical Services Training Program at Wilkes Community College is responsible for, and committed to, providing the highest level of training capabilities to those who serve, safeguard and secure our communities. Guided by integrity, our commitment to excellence, professionalism and cultivation of strategic partnerships, the Emergency Medical Services Training Program provides exceptional education, realistic training, and continuous support for emergency medical service professionals consistent with established standards.

The Emergency Medical Services Training Program is an approved Advanced EMS Education Institution through the North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services (NCOEMS).

This program offers the following courses:

  • Emergency Medical Responder (EMS-4100)
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMS-4200)
  • Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (EMS-4300)
  • Paramedic (EMS-4400)

For more information or to enroll, contact:

Image of Stephen Crouse
Stephen Crouse, BS
Coordinator of Fire, Rescue and EMS
Phone: 336-838-6215
sjcrouse205@wilkescc.edu
Image of Rusty Zachary
Rusty Zachary
Fire/EMS Coordinator – Ashe Campus
Phone: 336-903-3114
Email: razachary594@wilkescc.edu

Technical Standards

The Emergency Medical Technician program technical standards have been developed to inform students of the nonacademic essential functions of the program and profession. Examples are not all inclusive.

Standard Essential Function Examples
Communication
Oral / Written
  • Skills sufficient to communicate information and ideas so others will understand
  • Skills sufficient to interact with individuals, families, and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds
  • Document relevant patient information (manual or via computer) using correct terminology and spelling
  • Interpret doctor’s orders
  • Record patient responses to treatments
  • Establish rapport with patients, families, and other health care providers
Mobility / Motor Skills
  • Motor skills sufficient to move the hands and use hands to grasp or manipulate objects
  • Mobility sufficient to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms and legs and moving the whole body
  • Mobility sufficient to perform physical activities that require dexterity and flexibility to move body in a variety of positions
  • Utilize instruments with patients
  • Move around in patients’ rooms and treatment areas
  • Maneuver in confined spaces
  • Physical activities may include:
    • Running
    • Bending
    • Stooping
    • Lifting
    • Reaching
Physical Strength and Stamina
  • Ability to stand or sit for extended periods of time
  • Ability sufficient to lift and carry a minimum of 40 pounds
  • Stand and walk up to 12-hour shifts
  • Lift and/or maneuver patients
  • Lift and move equipment such as a gurney
Sensory

  • Sight
  • Sound
  • Taste
  • Touch
  • Smell
  • Visual skills sufficient to see details at close range and manipulate equipment
  • Listening skills sufficient to communicate with others
  • Identify various sounds
  • Ability to touch and locate anatomy on patients to perform physical assessments
  • Ability to tolerate various odors
  • Observe patient responses to treatment
  • Hear equipment/emergency alarms, or call for help
  • Listen to heart, lung, and blood pressure sounds
  • Feel for pulse
  • Work with patients with poor hygiene
Environmental / Occupational Exposure
  • Environmental hazards
  • Exposure to extreme temperatures and weather conditions
  • Ability to respond quickly and work under high stress situations
  • Wear appropriate safety gear
  • Possible exposure to HIV, hepatitis, etc.
  • Exposure to X-ray radiation, medicinal preparations, latex, and toxic substances
  • Respond appropriately in emergency to maintain patient safety and care
Field or Industry Professional Standards
  • Criminal background check
  • CPR certification
  • Valid driver’s license

Disability Services Statement

Wilkes Community College is an ADA compliant institution. WCC does not discriminate based on a disability in the admissions process or in access to its programs, services, and/or activities for qualified individuals who meet eligibility requirements. WCC will provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities who are eligible to receive or participate in college programs, services, and/or activities. If a student believes that he/she cannot meet one or more of a program’s essential functions without accommodations, the student is encouraged to disclose this to Disability Services as soon as possible.