emergency medical technician (EMT), a person trained in and responsible for the administration of specialized emergency care and the transportation of victims of acute illness or injury to a medical facility in compliance with national standards developed by the U.S. Department of Transportation. In addition to basic life-support skills, the EMT is trained in extrication, operation of emergency vehicles, basic anatomy, basic assessment of injury or illness, triage, care for specific injuries and illnesses, environmental emergencies, childbirth, and transport of the patient. Canadian EMT training and practice is similar but meets the regulatory standards for licensure in respective provinces or territories. See also emergency medical services.
