Great Lakes EMS Academy Davenport University Consortium

2018 Catalog

Great Lakes EMS Academy

Davenport University Consortium

1001 South Division

Grand Rapids, MI 49507

Phone: 616 459 1736

Website: www.GreatLakesEMS.com

II

Note from the President

The Great Lakes EMS Academy has been offering EMT and Paramedic

courses since 1998. We have grown throughout the years and have

continually improved the training that we offer to the community. I

am proud of the education that we are currently providing and of the

graduates from the Academy who are providing emergency care all over

the world. Many of our students can be found working at the ambulance

companies, hospitals and fire departments throughout West Michigan.

We constantly upgrade the quality of the EMT and Paramedic courses

offered at the Academy. I believe that we are on the leading edge of

using the Internet to keep students engaged in the curriculum. The

format and time spent in class is ideal for the adult learner.

Students should realize before they pay for the course that, this

is not an easy course. Paying for the course does not guarantee the

student anything but a textbook, many hours of classroom and clinical

education and several hours studying and completing classwork every

week. Although the course that you are signing up for has consistent

classroom hours, it is expected that you will be here at the Academy

outside of that scheduled time. Students need to practice skills

until they are completely familiar with the equipment and the step-

by-step processes.

The community expects EMTs and paramedics to make the right

decision in life-and-death scenarios. The students should appreciate

that responsibility before committing to the education. If you want

to be a paramedic, Great Lakes EMS Academy is the place for you.

Hundreds of people would agree it has worked for them. It will work

for you too.

Steve Huisman, President/Owner

Great Lakes EMS Academy

III

Accreditation

Great Lakes EMS Academy is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied

Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee

on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions

(CoAEMSP).”

Contact information for CAAHEP

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs

25400 U.S. Highway 19 North, Suite 158

Clearwater, FL 33763

www.caahep.org

Contact information for CoAEMSP

8301 Lakeview Parkway, Suite 111-312

Rowlett TX 75088

(214) 703-8445

FAX (214) 703-8992

www.coaemsp.org

Complaints to the State

Students who wish to file a complaint with the State of Michigan may do so by following this link: http://www.michigan.gov/documents/lara/Post-Secondary_Student_Complaints_498839_7.pdf.

If you wish to communicate with Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Bureau of

EMS, Trauma and Preparedness follow this link: http://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-73970_5093_28508_76846-47476--,00.html.

Great Lakes EMS Academy Davenport University Consortium Catalog Volume 22, January, 2018

IV

Table of Contents Page Number

Note from the President II

CAAHEP Accreditation III

Complain to the State

Getting Ready to Come to School at Great Lakes EMS Academy

Admissions 1

Prerequisites / Co-requisites 1

Non-Discrimination Policy 1

FISDAP Entrance Assessment 1

Background Check 1

Concurrent Enrollment for High Schoolers 2

Registration Fees and Tuition 2

Student Loan 2

Scholarships 2

Military, Fire and Police Discount 2

Costs associated with taking courses 3

Military Veterans using VA Assistance 4

Student Refund Policy 4

Registration Statements / Student Contract 4

Credit from Previous Instruction 4

Students with disabilities 5

Going to class at Great Lakes EMS Academy

Attendance Policy for the Classroom 6

Holidays 7

Grade Determination 7

Grade Calculation 8

To be Successful 8

Student Progress 8

Rules in the Classroom 9

Academic Dishonesty 9

Unsatisfactory Progress / Academic Probation 9

Re-entrance Requirements 10

Progressive Discipline Policy 10

Student Appeal Process 11

Student Right-to-Know 11

Service Work 11

Student Records 11

V

Table of Contents Page Number

Description of the Courses

EMT-Basic Course 12

EMT-Specialist Course 13

Paramedic Course 14

2018 Schedule

EMT-Basic 18

EMT-Specialist 18

Paramedic 18

The Clinical Experience

Immunizations Policy 19

Confidentiality 19

Rules for the Clinical Environment 19

Clinical Uniform Standards 20

About the Great Lakes EMS Academy

History of the Academy 21

Description of Facilities 21

Equipment Furnished by the School 21

The Staff at Great Lakes EMS Academy 22

Program Goals, Values and Philosophy 22

Davenport University Partnership 23

Governing Body 24

What to do after Completion of the Course

Certification and Licensing 25

NREMT for EMT-Basics 25

NREMT for Paramedics 25

Employment Assistance 25

What is Emergency Medical Service (EMS) 26

A Career in EMS 27

Job Analysis for EMTs and Paramedic 27

Calendar of Events 30

Great Lakes EMS Academy Davenport University Consortium Catalog Volume 22, January, 2018

Admissions

Great Lakes EMS Academy /Davenport University

Consortium has an open enrollment policy. This

means that students can sign up for courses

throughout the year and right up to the first day of

class. Enrollment to Great Lakes EMS Academy

is open to all high school graduates and any person

18 years of age or older who can benefit from The

Academy’s courses. Students concurrently

attending High School must work through their

school counselor and parents or legal guardian to

be able to register for classes at The Academy.

Great Lakes EMS Academy is an open-door

proprietary school designed to extend service to

everyone in the community. Persons who are 18

years of age or older, who have graduated from

high school (or possess a GED) are eligible to

attend class at The Academy.

Persons who are 17-years-old may attend the EMT

course if their parent or guardian has signed the

consent form and the student is attending or has

successfully finished their high school education.

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

EMT Course The prerequisites for the EMT course include:

1.High school diploma or its equivalent

(GED).

2.Current CPR card.

3.An email address and Internet connectivity.

Paramedic course The pre-requisites or co-requisite for the

Paramedic course include:

1. Successful completion of an EMT course.

2. Post-secondary anatomy and physiology

course.

3. Current CPR card.

4. An email address and Internet

connectivity.

Non-Discrimination Policy

Admission into Great Lakes EMS Academy shall

not be restricted nor based upon race, creed, color,

sex, disability, age or national origin.

Employment at Great Lakes EMS Academy shall

not be restricted nor based upon race, creed, color,

sex, disability, age or national origin.

Contractual agreements with Great Lakes EMS

Academy shall not be restricted nor based upon

race, creed, color, sex, disability, age or national

origin.

Registration Interview with the Director of Operations

Prospective students are encouraged to come into

The Academy to see the classrooms and equipment

and talk to the Director of Operations about The

Academy and the registration process. To schedule

a registration interview with Melissa Huisman you

can call her at The Academy during normal

business hours at (616) 459-1736 or email her at:

Melissa@GreatLakesEMS.com.

FISDAP Entrance Assessment

The Great Lakes EMS Academy uses FISDAP

entrance assessments to give incoming students

some feedback on their strengths and

weaknesses. The exam is comprised of two

sections: a cognitive test and a personality

inventory to test students’ affective domain. At

this time, the entrance exams are ony to provide

feedback and are not used in any sort of selection

process. Students will schedule this assessment

with the Administrative Assistant.

Background Checks

Background Checks are required for all student

files. Students are instructed to obtain an ICHAT

report from the Michigan State Police and include

the report with their admissions application.

Students cannot participate in clinicals until they

have provided a current ICHAT report. Students

with a criminal history that involves the possession

of drugs or violent crimes should seek information

regarding NREMT policies (www.NREMT.org-

felony statement) and the State Michigan’s

licensure rules for EMS. Candidates can get an

ICHAT report by going to

http://apps.michigan.gov/ICHAT/Home.aspx.

Criminal Conviction Guidelines The Department of Health and Human Services,

EMS Section, has adopted enforcement guidelines

relevant to criminal convictions and individuals

that seek licensure in Emergency Medical

Services. They are intended to assist the

department in determining whether to deny

licensure. Each application or case is reviewed on

an individual basis and a determination will not be

made until all facts are presented.

Students with a criminal background should

investigate the feasibility of achieving licensure

before signing up and paying for class.

Great Lakes EMS Academy Davenport University Consortium Catalog Volume 22, January, 2018

2

Criminal Conviction Guidelines

Students can start by reading the EMS

Personnel Enforcement Review

Guidelines on the State’s EMS Website:

State of Michigan EMS Office

Students may also want to read through

the National Registry’s rules regarding

felony convictions. This information

can be found on their website:

www.NREMT.org

Orientation

Two weeks before the start of class, the Academy

will schedule orientation. This orientation is our

time to be sure the student has all the required

items/information for class: Textbook,

JBLearning user name and password, student

manual and syllabus.

Concurrent Enrollment for High School Students

High school students who wish to enroll in classes

at Great Lakes EMS Academy during the standard

school year are required to submit the application

for admission along with a letter confirming their

enrollment in a high school (signed by principle or

high school counselor).

If a high school student is interested in this

arrangement, they should get in touch with their

high school counselor. Students wishing to enroll

for summer courses must have completed the

eleventh grade. Parental consent is required for all

students who have not yet reached the age of 18

years. The NREMT and the State of Michigan

require an individual to reach the age of 18 years

before testing and becoming licensed as an EMT.

Registration Fees and Tuition

To register for classes, students need to read

through the registration material and provide

signatures in the proper spaces. Enrollment is a

continuing process for The Academy. Although

early registration is recommended to guarantee

class reservation, applicants may register as late as

the week before the class begins. When students

register for a course, they will include a

refundable registration fee with their package.

This fee is a down payment for the tuition of the

course. The registration fees are detailed below:

Course Tuition Registration fees

EMT-Basic $1,950 $250.00

EMT-Specialist $3,000 $250.00

Paramedic $10,600 $500.00

The registration fee is part of the tuition. It is

not an additional fee added to the tuition.

When students sign up for the Paramedic course

the EMT-Specialist tuition is included in that cost.

The EMT-Specialist course is the first

(Preparatory) module of the Paramedic course.

Student Loan

Great Lakes EMS Academy’s mission is to prepare

students to succeed in a career in EMS. We have

therefore arranged for student loans. We utilize

Extend Credit to provide tuition to be paid over

multiple months. Payments are deducted using

ACH. Students must have a checking account

(provide a voided check), savings account, or

credit card.

1. Low down payments

2. Easy application process

3. Contract completed in-house at the Academy

Scholarship

The Grand Rapids Foundation offers an EMS

scholarship. Go to grfoundation.org to apply for

the Harry Morris EMS Scholarship. Applications

are due by April 1, 2018.

Davenport University has a scholarship

specifically for students embarking on an EMS

career. However, students will still need to file

their FAFSA and will need to register for 6 credit

hours to be eligible to apply for this scholarship.

Military, Fire and Police

The Great Lakes EMS Academy offers a 10%

discount for those in the Military, Fire Service

Personnel and Police Officers. Discounts on

regular EMT and Paramedic courses only, special

courses excluded.

3

Costs Associated with Taking EMT Courses

Item Cost

FISDAP Entrance Assessment (FISDAP website) $20.00

ICHAT Criminal Background Check (MSP) $10.00

EMT Textbook Premier Package (JBLearning) $220.00

FISDAP Clinical Scheduler (EMT)1 $31.50

Immunizations2 $100.00

Uniform Items (shirt, pants, boots)3 $75.00

Lab Fees 0.00

$456.50

Costs Associated with Taking Paramedic Courses

Item Cost

FISDAP Entrance Exam (FISDAP website) $25.25

ICHAT Criminal Background Check (Michigan State Police)4 $10.00

FISDAP Clinical Scheduler (Paramedic)5 $84.00

EMT-Specialist Textbook Premier Package (first module of paramedic) $300.00

Paramedic Textbooks Premier Package $450.00

Immunizations6 $100.00

Uniform Items (shirt, pants, boots)7 $75.00

Lab fees 0.00

$1044.25

1 In 2018, the FISDAP clinical scheduler may be included with the EMT Premier package from JBLearning 2 Immunizations can cost $50.00 - $150.00 depending on what vaccinations/screenings have already been completed and where

the student goes for their shots 3 Uniforms are described on page 20. The uniform shirt can be purchased at Nye Uniform in Grand Rapids. They have our

patches. The cost of the pants and boots are dependent on where the student shops and what the student would like to buy. 4 We only need on criminal background check. If students attended EMT class with in 12 months, they would not have to get

another ICHAT 5 In 2018, the FISDAP clinical scheduler may be included with the Paramedic Premier package from JBLearning 6 If a student just received their immunizations for an EMT course, they would not have to get more vaccinations. However, at

some point they will need to get another TB screening 7 The clinical uniform for EMT and Paramedic is the same.

4

Military Veterans using VA Assistance

If a veteran student fails to enter or withdraws from

a course at any time prior to the 4th day of class,

they will be refunded all tuition paid and the

registration fee paid to The Academy. If a veteran

student withdraws or is discontinued from a course

of instruction after the 3rd day of class at any time

prior to completion, the amount charged will be an

approximate pro-rata portion of the total charges

for tuition, registration fee less $10.00 and other

charges that the length of the completed portion of

the course bears to its total length.

Student Refund Policy

The tuition and fees paid by the applicant shall be

refunded if the applicant is rejected by the school

before enrollment. An application fee of not more

than $25.00 may be retained by the school if the

application is denied. All tuition and fees paid by

the applicant shall be refunded if requested within

3 business days after signing a contract with the

school. Once the 3 business days have elapsed the

following policy will apply:

If a student withdraws from class between the time

they register for class and the third class session,

they will be refunded all but the registration fee of

the tuition paid to or owed to The Academy.

If a student withdraws from class after the third

class, session, the student will forfeit all money

paid to or owed to The Academy for the class that

the student registered for and participated in. If a

student fails a course due to grades, attendance, or

not following the rules they will not be refunded

any money and will still owe the balance of their

tuition.

Registration Statements

When students register for classes, they will need

to sign/initial a few statements that are included in

the student contract. Those statements can be

found below:

1. Upon successful completion of this course I will

be eligible to take the NREMT exam. It is

possible for me to pass the EMS training

program and then fail the NREMT exam. The

Academy makes no guarantee that I will pass

the NREMT Examination process.

2. To benefit from this training, the school

requires that you must be able to read, write and

comprehend the English language, do basic

arithmetic problems, and possess a high school

diploma or GED.

3. Students must agree that completion of the

EMS training program shall be contingent upon

meeting the requirements of the course of

instruction which is set forth in the student

handbook.

4. It is not possible for The Academy to guarantee

employment. The school assists graduates by

making their names and qualifications available

to companies that upon request have contacted

the school.

5. The points mentioned in the catalog are not all

inclusive and may be added to or changed at the

discretion of the President of the Great Lakes

EMS, if such changes or additions are deemed

necessary to improve the program.

Credit from Previous Instruction

Anatomy and Physiology A post-secondary school anatomy and physiology

(A&P) course is a prerequisite or co-requisite for

the Paramedic course. A strong foundation of

A&P is very important for the critical thinking

skills of Paramedic student. The student will be

required to submit official transcripts from a

college level A&P class before successfully

completing the Paramedic curriculum.

5

Registered Nurse Registered Nurses (RNs) are welcomed to attend

EMT-Basic and Paramedic training at the Great

Lakes EMS Academy. RNs will be required to

pay the full tuition for the EMT-Basic course.

They will also need to follow the conventional

rules regarding attendance. They must

successfully complete the didactic and practical

course of instruction comparable to a regular

student. The RN will have the Paramedic tuition

discounted by $5,000.00. During the Paramedic

course the RNs are given considerable

flexibility. There is no attendance policy. The

RNs must successfully complete all the major

written and practical skills testing which will

include scenario-based testing. The clinical

obligation is shortened to:

1. 120 hours of ALS (ambulance ride-along)

2. 48 hours in the emergency room

3. 1 anesthesiology visits (5 live intubations)

4. 1 visit to OB and delivery

5. 1 visit to Cardiac Catheterization lab

6. 120-hour Field Internship (50 team leads)

Military Veterans Military veterans with experience in medicine

will be given credit for prior learning. The

Academy staff realizes that the education,

training and experience that Army Medics,

Navy Corpsmen, Air Force Pararescue

personnel, and Coast Guard Health Service

Technicians possess will help them be

immensely successful through an EMT-Basic

class. Individuals who can show proof of their

training and experience in the military will be

given the opportunity to have increased

flexibility in their attendance and clinical

obligation. Soldiers and sailors with advanced

training may also be given continued latitude

during the Paramedic course.

Students with Disabilities

The school is committed to compliance with

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and

its regulations. The school does not discriminate

based on disability in admission or access to, or

treatment or employment in, its programs and

activities. The Director of the Academy is

designated the school’s Student Disability

Coordinator. Applicants or students with a

disability may request an accommodation by

contacting the Director of Operations. The

following are general guidelines. They provide a

general description addressing disabilities and

accommodations for students. Please address any

questions or issues to the Director of Operations.

The decision to use these services is voluntary

and a matter of individual choice. To provide

appropriate accommodations to students with

disabilities, the Director of Operations:

1. Serves as a resource to provide information

regarding how to obtain accommodations;

2. Helps determine the accommodations to be

provided to a student, taking into

consideration the student’s documentation,

preferences, available resources, and course

requirements;

3. Keeps confidential information regarding a

student’s disability; and with a student’s

consent, notifies the student’s instructors in

writing that a student has a disability and

describing any agreed upon

accommodations.

4. Accommodations are individualized and

developed on a case-by-case basis.

Identifying an accommodation requires

communication and flexibility. Eligibility is

determined on an individual basis based on

documented need.

5. Individuals with disabilities are welcome to

discuss their concerns with the Student

Disability Coordinator. The decision not to

self-identify as disabled is understood and

respected.

6. Self-disclosure and the submission of

documentation to obtain a reasonable

accommodation can be initiated at any time.

However, reasonable time should be allowed

before the student can expect

accommodations to be in place.

6

Students with Disabilities (Continued) 7. Incoming students with disabilities are urged

to contact the Director of Operations as soon

as possible. Early identification of a student’s

disability status and accommodation requests

can assist the school in arranging to reasonably

accommodate that student on a timely basis.

The more time the Director of Operations must

make these arrangements, the easier arranging

accommodations can be.

8. Students deemed eligible for and granted an

accommodation will be given a Request for

Accommodation letter. That letter is prepared

by the Director of Operations and describes

the appropriate accommodation. That letter is

given to each instructor where an

accommodation has been granted. If the

student or instructor has additional questions,

he/she must contact the Director of Operations

for clarification and/or assistance.

9. It is each student’s responsibility to make use

of these accommodations. Each student is

ultimately responsible for his or her academic

success. Each student must take the initiative

to use time, facilities, and support services in

a productive manner. Each student is

responsible for his or her own work and grade

in each course.

Temporary Disability

Students with temporary disabilities are

encouraged to contact the Director of Operations

to find out what services are available to them.

Examples of temporary disabilities include, for

example, a broken arm/leg or a short-term illness

or an injury.

Attendance Policy for the Classroom

The Academy has an obligation to the state and the

students to track attendance and not allow students

who frequently miss class to successfully complete

the class. In our experience, students with

attendance problems do poorly in class.

Attendance will be taken through the traditional

rollcall-roster method. The instructor will track

absenteeism and lengthy tardiness. Lengthy

tardiness is defined as missing more than 30

minutes of class. Students are expected to call the

primary instructor to advise them of their

absenteeism or tardiness as early as possible. The

time away from class will be recorded as either an

excused absence or an unexcused absence.

Unexcused absence:

If a student has an unexcused absence (non-

communicated), all assignments missed will be

graded at a zero (0). When a student has an

unexcused absence, it is the instructor’s

responsibility to have the student sign a form

stating that unexcused absences are not tolerated.

This form stipulates that the student will be

dropped from the course if there is another

unexcused absence during that same module.

Excused absence:

Students are allowed to miss up to 12 hours of

class for each module of the curriculum. A module

is approximately 92 hours. When a student has

missed 8 hours of class, the instructor will have the

student sign a form assuring that the student

understands the ramifications of missing class. If

a student misses 12 hours of class, the instructor

will have the student sign a form assuring the

student understands the consequence of missing

anymore class time. Students who miss more

than 12 hours of class may be dropped from the

course.

If a student does not come to class, the student is

responsible for making up missed material and

testing. It is the participant's duty to seek out the

information disseminated in class and make up

missed assignments. Students will be given two

(2) class sessions to make up missed work. It is not

the responsibility of the instructor to make sure that

the student receives the material or cognitive

information that was covered in class during the

hours that the student missed.

Disenrollment

Students who miss more than the allotted time

(unexcused) will be dis-enrolled from class. The

student will be allowed to enroll into the next class

available. Students who attend a future class will

pay normal tuition fees.

Leave of Absence

Occasionally students are forced to miss more than

12 hours of class during a module. If the student

can communicate a schedule conflict in a proactive

way and the student can demonstrate competence

with the current material being presented in class,

a leave of absence may be granted by the Primary

Instructor. A leave of absence will not exceed 20

hours of class. The time missed in class will be

added to the clinical obligation.

7

School Holidays

Great Lakes EMS Academy recognizes the

following holidays and there is no school

scheduled on these dates:

Good Friday March 30, 2018

Memorial Day May 28, 2018

4th of July July 4, 2018 (Wednesday)

Labor Day September 3, 2018

Halloween October 31, 2017 (Wednesday)

Thanksgiving November 21, 22, and 23, 2018

Winter Break No classes December 20, 2018

to January 7, 2019

Grade Determination

Great Lakes EMS Academy does not use a letter

grade to evaluate or rank the participants in various

courses. Rather, the student is given a Pass or Fail

mark. The determination of the grade is explained

on the following pages.

Didactic Grade: The student’s didactic grade is

comprised of quizzes, tests, and assignments. At

the end of each module there is an exam. The

student must pass the exam with a 75% or better.

If the student obtains a grade less the 75% on the

exam he or she must retake the exam. It is the

student’s responsibility to arrange a time to retake

the test. The student must retake the exam within

21 calendar days. Retaking the written exam is the

responsibility of the student. If the student does

not pass the retest with a score of at least 75% or if

the student does not take the test within 21 calendar

days, they will be given a failing grade. The exam

at the end of the modules will include all material

discussed during lectures, assigned readings, and

handouts.

In class Quizzes - Nearly every class session

begins with a quiz. Students must come prepared

for every class. Quizzes are accumulative which

means any information covered earlier in the

module is “fair game” on quizzes. These quizzes

are an important part of the student’s grade.

Assignments - Students are given assignments

throughout the courses. These assignments are

comprised of assignments that may be completed

in the classroom or the learning management

website.

Tests/Exam - The test at the end of the modules

will include all material discussed during lectures,

demonstrations, assigned readings, and handouts.

All test questions will be based on the standard

national curriculum objectives, the national

registry job practice analysis, and the State of

Michigan objectives for EMS providers. Students

are required to pass each module test (there is a

retest opportunity) to continue with the course.

Practical Grade: All students must pass the

practical skills evaluation for the course. Practical

skills are evaluated using task analysis and the

NREMT skills sheets. A passing score is

determined by how many points the student

receives from the skill sheet. 80% is the minimal

score for successful completion.

Clinical Grade: Student’s clinical grade will be

presented as satisfactory or unsatisfactory, judged

by attendance. At the end of class students must

have all the appropriate documentation for the

hours they spent in the clinical environment. If

there is not written proof with the appropriate

signatures for the clinical attendance the students

will not be allowed to graduate until the

appropriate number of hours are completed.

Affective Evaluation: The student will have

periodic affective evaluation, which measures

professionalism, communication, and other

leadership traits important to a successful career in

EMS. Affective evaluations are completed during

class time and practical instruction. Students are

counseled on both good and bad results.

Make Up work

Most homework assignments have due dates.

When students complete homework late, the

assignment will be graded down 10% for every

class period that it is overdue. When a student

misses a quiz due to an excused absence, they have

21 calendar days to complete the quiz while in

class. This can easily be done just before class on

the day the student returns after the absence

Extra Credit Work:

Students may need to complete supplementary

work to obtain a passing grade or a grade that is

more suitable to the student. An extra credit

project can improve the students overall quiz grade

percentage by 1%. Only five extra credit projects

are allowed for each module.

8

Grade Calculation

The Academy uses percentage based grading

system for all courses. The cognitive grades

(quizzes, assignments and tests) all have a given

value that is further described below. The

practical, clinical, and affective domains are all

pass or fail as explained earlier.

Homework Assignments 25%

In Class Quizzes 25%

In Class Assignments 20%

Final Exam 30%

Practical Pass / Fail

Clinical Pass / Fail

Affective Evaluation Pass / Fail

Letter Grades

GLEMSA/DU uses a modified letter grade and

GPA to evaluate or rank the participants in

various courses. The following grading scale

will be used for all classes presented at

GLEMSA/DU:

Percent Letter Value 100% A+ 4.0

99 - 95% A 4.0

94 – 91% A- 3.7

90 – 88% B+ 3.3

87 – 84% B 3.0

83 – 80% B- 2.70

77 – 79% C+ 2.20

75 - 76% C 2.0

74% and

Below

F 0

Grades at 75% and above are considered

satisfactory. Grades below a 75% are considered

a failing grade for classes at GLEMSA. At the

beginning of each month, the administrative

assistant will create a report from the online

gradebook with all of the students who are

maintaining an average grade below 75%. That

report will be forwarded to the primary

instructor. The student will receive an email

from the staff at the Academy. The instructor

and the student should meet together before the

middle of the month to discuss an action plan for

improvement. That should include catching up

on missed assignments, posting better grades for

homework assignments and possibly extra credit

assignments to remediate material that is poorly

understood.

To be Successful

To successfully complete the course of

instruction, students must meet all the following

criteria:

1. Adhere to the attendance policy, and

follow the rules.

2. Pass each of the module tests with a score

of 75% or better.

3. Pass the practical evaluations at the end of

each module and at the end of the course.

4. Obtain an overall grade of 75% or higher

using the grade determination above.

5. Complete the clinical obligation before the

end of class date or before starting their

internship.

6. Obtain a satisfactory affective evaluation

at the end of the course.

Student Progress

Students have a clear understanding of how they

are doing throughout class. Nearly every class

session will start with a quiz that evaluates the

student’s retention of the current material. The

student will have several homework assignments

to be completed each week. These grades will

be available to the student via an online learning

management system. Any questions about

grades can be forward to instructors or Academy staff.

9

Rules in the Classroom

The rules listed below are set forth to establish

an environment of fairness and security in the

classroom. Students who violate these rules can

be dismissed from The Academy without

prospect of reclaiming their tuition. Many

actions will warrant a verbal reprimand followed

by a written reprimand and then finally dismissal

(progressive discipline). However, other actions

may call for immediate dismissal. These actions

must be proven and substantiated by witnesses

or confession.

1. Falling asleep in class is prohibited. This sort

of unprofessional behavior would merit a

progressive disciplinary plan that would

include a verbal, followed by a written and

then dismissal.

2. The use of phones and/or computers for non-

educational purposes while in class will not be

acceptable. Computers may be used for taking

notes and viewing PowerPoints lectures.

Texting or carrying out non-educational tasks

while in class would merit a progressive

disciplinary plan that would include a verbal,

followed by a written and then dismissal.

3. No cheating on a quiz, test, or homework

assignment. While taking a test, the student is

expected to complete their own test and not

assist fellow students in any way. Cheating on

quizzes would merit a progressive disciplinary

plan that would include a verbal, followed by

a written and then dismissal.

4. No harassing fellow students or other

individuals encountered at clinical sites.

Harassment of a threatening nature may be

grounds for immediate dismissal.

5. Students are not allowed to bring weapons to

class. Again, this could be reason for

immediate dismissal.

6. Malicious damage of equipment during

practical lab or while at clinical sites is

prohibited. Students caught intentionally

damaging equipment will be immediately

dismissed from The Academy.

7. Conviction of a felony or misdemeanor, which

was perpetrated during class time while on

campus, will mean immediate dismissal from

The Academy.

8. Stealing property owned or leased by Great

Lakes EMS Academy will mean immediate

dismissal and charges will be pressed.

9. The use of illicit drugs or alcohol within 8

hours before attending class will most likely

follow a progressive disciplinary plan that

would start at a written reprimand followed by

dismissal.

Academic Dishonesty

Great Lakes EMS Academy defines academic

dishonesty as the “submission of work completed

by another person as your own.” Failure to

appropriately identify the ideas, words or work of

others included in a student’s work is considered

academic dishonesty. Academic dishonesty may

result in a “0” on the graded activity. It is

academically unethical and unacceptable to:

1. Submit work completed by another person as

if it were your own.

2. Copy another student’s homework and submit

the work as if it were the product of your own

labor.

3. Attempt to gain an advantage using hidden

notes, viewing another student’s paper,

revealing the questions or answers on exams

or quizzes to other students or viewing quiz or

exam questions obtained by another student.

4. Communicate information not distributed to

students with electronic devices, recording

devices, cellular telephones, headsets or

portable computers.

Unsatisfactory Progress/Academic Probation

The primary instructor will track the student’s

progress throughout the course and the student

will have access to their grades. At the beginning

of each month, the administrative staff will

review the online gradebook and initiate an

unsatisfactory academic progress report for

students who have an overall grade of less than

75 percent. This report will be forwarded to the

primary instructor who will meet with the student

to formulate an action plan for improvement.

This report will be directed through the academy

staff and then filed in the student’s folder and a

copy will be placed in the course binder. The

action plan for improvement should include an

extra credit assignment that would address the

deficiencies and improve the student’s grade

along with the completion of assignments that

have not been completed.

10

Unsatisfactory Progress/Academic Probation (continued)

After two or three weeks, the primary instructor will

evaluate the student’s progress with the action plan.

At that time, the student should have completed the

extra credit assignment and finished any

assignments that were overdue. If the student has

not completed the tasks appropriately, the student

will be placed on academic probation. The student

will sign paperwork clearly stating that continued

unsatisfactory performance would mean failure and

disenrollment. At this time, the student and

instructor will discuss the action plan for

improvement.

If the student improves their quiz grade, and can

sustain a grade above 75%, they will be removed

from probation.

If the student fails to comply with action plan for

improvement within 30 days of being placed on

probation, they will be suspended from the program

and will fail the course. The student and instructor

can still discuss an action plan for improvement,

which would involve registering for the next

available course.

There will be a comprehensive exam at the end of

each of the modules. These exams will include all

material discussed during lectures, demonstrations,

assigned readings, and handouts. All test questions

will be based on the standard national curriculum

objectives, the national registry job practice

analysis, and the State of Michigan objectives for

EMS providers. Students are required to pass

(obtain a grade of 75% or better) each module test

(there is a retest opportunity) to continue with the

course.

Re-entrance Requirements

When a student fails to successfully complete a

course of instruction they can return to the

Academy to pursue a career in EMS.

If the student was dis-enrolled from the Academy

due to a violation of the rules, they are not allowed

to return to the Academy.

Students are welcomed and encouraged to register

for courses again when they have failed due to

unsatisfactory progress or poor attendance.

Students are required to pay the tuition for the

module when they register for class. Students may

fail the first term of the EMT course. If that is the

case, the student will be required to pay $750.00

and enroll in the first module of another EMT

course.

Students who fail the second term of the EMT

course will need to pay $750.00 and enroll in the

second module of another EMT course. This

course will need to be scheduled within 1 year of

the failed course. If they are too late, they will need

to start the course from the beginning.

Paramedic students who fail a module will be

required to pay $1,000.00 and enroll in the module

that the student failed. The modules of the

Paramedic course are progressive. A student must

pass the modules in order. Students are not

allowed to fail one module, continue with the next

module, and then return in a later course to

successfully complete the module that was failed.

When a student Paramedic student fails a module,

and returns to take that module over again, they

must start the module 1 year from the time of the

failed module. If they are too late, they will need

to start the course from the beginning.

Progressive Discipline Policy

There are 3 levels of disciplinary actions:

1) Verbal warning,

2) Written warning,

3) Dismissal

Many actions will warrant a verbal warning

followed by a written warning and then finally

dismissal. However, some actions may call for a

written warning or immediate dismissal.

The primary instructor must document all

disciplinary action and the student must be advised

of any action taken. This will be proven by

signature from the student on all documentation

that is placed in the student’s record.

An incident report will be generated and all

witnesses to the infraction will need to complete

separate incident reports, which will be reviewed by

the Director of the Academy.

Primary instructors do not have the authority to

immediately dismiss the students from the course.

However, any Instructor (primary instructor or task

force) has the authority to have the student leave

class and not return until the Director or President

of The Academy can be consulted. Instructors may

need to make a student who is disruptive in class

leave the campus to maintain order in the

classroom.

11

Progressive Discipline Policy (continued)

A student subject to any level of disciplinary

action has the right to appeal to the Director or

President of The Academy. The decision of the

Director or President on the appeal shall be

considered final and conclusive.

If a student receives a verbal or written warning,

that documentation remains in the student’s

folder permanently. If a similar occurrence

happens within 3 months, the next step in the

progressive disciplinary policy will be taken. At

the end of three months if a similar occurrence

could indicate a second verbal or a second written

warning. However, the disciplinary action is at

the discretion of the Director or President of The

Academy.

Student Appeal Process

The student appeal process is written to establish

a line of communication between the student and

The Academy for problems associated with

quizzes, test, and various classroom activities. In

the interest of maintaining harmonious relations,

a complaint shall first be discussed between the

primary instructor and the student, with the object

of resolving the matter informally. When

discussing the grievance, the student may be

accompanied by another person. The student

must inform the primary instructor what the

complaint is about prior to the meeting.

The student must initiate this informal discussion

within five (5) days after the occurrence of the

condition about which he/she is dissatisfied.

If the complaint is not resolved through the

informal discussion, the matter shall be presented

in writing on a form available from The Academy

(student appeal form), within five (5) days after

completion of the informal discussion. Within

five (5) days of the receipt of the written appeal,

the Director will meet with the student and other

appropriate parties to settle the disagreement.

Student Right–to-know

Great Lakes EMS Academy will compile and

make available to students all the information

listed below. If a student is interested in seeing

the information, they may set an appointment

with the Director of Operations of the Academy.

1. Student Folder

2. NREMT Pass Rates.

3. Annual reports regarding attrition rates

Service Work

The Great Lakes EMS Academy does not have a

program that allows students to complete tasks /

or work-off their tuition. The student will not be

asked to complete work outside of the tasks

associated with the curriculum. From time-to-

time, there are volunteer opportunities that will

be communicated to the students. Students

should feel no obligation to participate in any

volunteer opportunity.

Student Records

The student record will contain the registration

documents, immunizations, criminal background

check, FISDAP testing score, practical skills

evaluations, clinical documentation, incident

reports, unsatisfactory performance reports and

possibly certifications gained while in class. This

student record is always accessible to the student

through an appointment with the Director of the

Academy.

The Academy keeps all student records private

and will not give out information regarding the

student record without the expressed written

permission of the student.

The Academy will keep student records in

perpetuity.

12

Description of the EMT-Basic Course

The primary focus of the Emergency Medical

Technician is to provide basic emergency medical

care and transportation for critical and emergent

patients who access the emergency medical

system. This individual possesses the basic

knowledge and skills necessary to provide patient

care and transportation. Emergency Medical

Technicians function as part of a comprehensive

EMS response, under medical oversight.

Emergency Medical Technicians perform

interventions with the basic equipment typically

found on an ambulance. The Emergency Medical

Technician is a link from the scene to the local

emergency health care system.

This course is designed to prepare the student for

the current testing process used by the State of

Michigan. The EMT-Basic is the foundation of

pre-hospital emergency care and is a prerequisite

for the Paramedic course. We offer the EMT-

Basic program on a routine schedule at several

times during the year. The course is 188 hours

long. The student will spend 140 hours in the

classroom and participate in a 48-hour clinical

obligation.

Prerequisites - The prerequisites for the course are

a High School diploma or equivalent and current

American Heart Association CPR for the

Professional Rescuer certification.

Description - The EMT-Basic course consists of

two modules that are taught back-to-back. Each

module is seventy (70) hours long. During the first

module, the student will learn the preparatory

material and trauma management. The second

term is medical emergencies, operations and a

review of all the information learned in the

program.

The First Module of EMT-Basic

Lecture - Topics may include (but are not limited

to): The well-being of the EMT, medical, legal, and

ethical issues, the human body, patient assessment,

kinematics of trauma, bleeding and shock, soft-

tissue injuries, musculoskeletal injuries, injuries to

the head, neck, and spine, chest and abdominal

injuries and communication and documentation.

Practical - Skills may include: cardiopulmonary

resuscitation (CPR), automatic external

defibrillation (AED), basic airway adjuncts, using

oxygen and oxygen tanks, suctioning, trauma

patient assessment, bandaging, splinting, spinal

immobilization and scenario-based education.

At the end of the first module of the EMT-Basic

course there is a written exam and practical skills

evaluation. The student must pass both the written

and practical exam to continue in the course.

Practical skills are evaluated using task analysis /

skills sheets. A passing score is determined by how

many points the student receives from the skill sheet.

80% is the minimal score for successful completion.

Students are tested on the following:

1. Trauma management

2. Basic airway and ventilation

3. Rigid splinting

4. CPR and AED

The Second Module of EMT-Basic

Lecture - topics may include: general

pharmacology, respiratory, cardiovascular, the acute

abdomen, neurological emergencies, pediatrics,

allergic reactions, substance abuse and poisonings,

obstetrical emergencies, geriatrics, and hazardous

materials.

Practical – This portion of the class will be focused

on scenario-based education and trauma

management. There are some basic airway adjuncts,

using oxygen and oxygen tanks, suctioning,

bandaging, splinting and spinal immobilization. At

the end of the course students are tested on all the

NREMT skills as list below in the table

Clinical Obligation - All EMT-Basic course

participants must attend a certain number of hours in

a clinical setting. This time will be spent at various

hospitals and ambulances in West Michigan.

Clinicals are scheduled by the student and can occur

during all hours of the day. Ambulance clinicals are

usually twelve (12) hours long. Students are

required to spend 36 hours on the ambulance and 12

hours in the emergency room. The school is

responsible for finding clinical sites for the student

to attend and will coordinate the logistics (scheduling

and communication) of the clinical program.

Student’s clinical grade will be presented as

satisfactory or unsatisfactory, judged by attendance.

At the end of class students must have all the

appropriate documentation for the hours they spent

in the clinical environment. If there is not written

proof with the appropriate signatures for the clinical

attendance the students will not be allowed to

graduate until the appropriate number of hours are

completed.

Description of the EMT-Basic Course

Module Hours Practical Testing Clinical Hours

EMT-Basic 140 48 hours

Preparatory and

Trauma 70

1. Trauma management

2. Basic airway and ventilation

3. Rigid splinting

4. CPR and AED

36 hrs-ALS Ambulance

12 hrs-Emergency Room

Medical

Emergencies

and Operations

70

1. Patient Management - Trauma

2. Patient Management - Medical

3. Upper Airway Adjuncts and Suction

4. Bag-Valve-Mask Ventilation

5. Supplemental Oxygen Admin

6. Supraglottic Airway

7. Bleeding Control/Shock

8. Long Bone Fracture Immobilization

9. Joint Injury Immobilization

10. Spinal Immobilization (Seated)

11. Spinal Immobilization (Supine)

12. CPR

Description of the EMT-Specialist Course

In the EMT-Specialist this individual will learn how to start intravenous (I.V.) lines and place intraosseous

(I.O.) needles to give various medications. EMT-Specialists can give several medications to patients

while treating various medical emergencies. The training encompasses a review of the EMT material

along pharmacology and an emphasis on patient assessment. The course is 172 hours long. The student

will spend 112 hours in the classroom and participate in a 60-hour clinical obligation. The prerequisites

for the course are:

1. Current American Heart Association CPR for the Professional Rescuer certification.

2. Completion of an Emergency Medical Technician course.

EMT-Specialist Hours Practical testing 60 hours Clinical

Preparatory

module of the

Paramedic

course

112

1. Airway management –

Supraglottic

2. Pediatric Respiratory

Compromise

3. I.V. Therapy

4. Medication administration

5. IO Placement

6. Trauma Management

7. Medical Management

8. CPR and AED

9. Splinting

10. Major Bleeding and Shock

48 hrs-ALS Ambulance

12 hrs-Emergency Room

Description of the Paramedic course

The Paramedic is an allied health professional

whose primary focus is to provide advanced

emergency medical care for critical and emergent

patients who access the emergency medical system.

This individual possesses the complex knowledge

and skills necessary to provide patient care and

transportation. Paramedics function as part of a

comprehensive EMS response, under medical

oversight. Paramedics perform interventions with

the basic and advanced equipment typically found

on an ambulance. The Paramedic is a link from the

scene into the health care system.

This curriculum provides the education and field

experience needed to be an effective Paramedic.

The Paramedic is the highest level of licensure for

pre-hospital emergency care. This course is

designed to prepare the student for the Paramedic

National Registry exam that is required for

licensure in the State of Michigan and other states.

The prerequisites for the course are:

1. Current American Heart Association CPR for

the Professional Rescuer certification.

2. Completion of an Emergency Medical

Technician course.

3. Completion of a post-secondary class in

Anatomy and Physiology (can be co-requisite).

The Paramedic class is broken down into seven

terms as described below. The first module is 120

hours and the other five modules are 96 hours long.

Each module has approximately 70 hours of clinical

obligation. The total hours spent in the classroom

is 592 hours. There is a total of 410 hours in the

clinical environment, and at the end of the

Paramedic course students participate in a

mandatory 250 hours of internship on an ALS

ambulance.

The nighttime course is scheduled on Monday and

Wednesday. Each class session is four hours long

from 6:00 to 10:00 PM. The curriculum is set up to

allow one day a week to be mainly lecture (didactic)

and the other day will be focused on practical skills

and scenario-based education.

The Afternoon course is scheduled on Tuesday

and Thursday. Each session is six hours long

from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tuesday is mainly

lecture and Thursday will be focused on

practical skills and scenario-based education.

Students are required to complete each of the

modules before progressing to the next module.

Each module has the same components for the

final grade. Each module has a lecture, practical

and clinical obligation. The school is

responsible for finding clinical sites for the

student to attend and will coordinate the logistics

(scheduling and communication) of the clinical

program.

Preparatory Module

The preparatory module is longer than the other

modules. This module is also an EMT-Specialist

Course. The curriculum follows the national

curriculum for Advanced EMT. Upon successful

completion of the course, the student will be able to

take the NREMT test for AEMT and be licensed as

an EMT-Specialist in the State of Michigan.

Lecture - Topics will be focused on the well-being

of the Paramedic; med-legal and ethical

considerations; anatomy, physiology,

pathophysiology; patient assessment, advanced

airway placement, Intravenous (I.V.) therapy,

intraosseous (I.O.) placement and pharmacology.

Practical – Skill practice/evaluation will cover

basic and advanced airway, initiating intravenous

lines, intraosseous cannulation and drug

administration. Practical skills are evaluated using

task analysis / skills sheets. A passing score is

determined by how many points the student

receives from the skill sheet. 80% is the minimal

score for successful completion. Students are tested

on the following skills:

1. Airway Management – Supraglottic

2. Pediatric Respiratory Compromise

3. I.V. Therapy

4. Medication administration

5. IO Placement

6. Trauma Management

7. Medical Management

8. CPR and AED

9. Splinting (long bone and joint)

10. Major Bleeding and Shock

15

Preparatory Module (Continued)

Clinical Obligation - Students are required to

spend 48 hours on the ambulance and participate

in a 12-hour emergency room clinical. The school

is responsible for finding clinical sites and will

coordinate the logistics (scheduling and

communication) of the clinical program.

Cardiology Module

Lecture - Topics will be focused on Cardiology and

advanced cardiac life support (ACLS). Students

learn: the anatomy and physiology of the

cardiovascular system, electrophysiology, rapid

ECG interpretation, 12-lead acquisition and

interpretation, and can verbalize the treatment of a

patient in accordance with current American Heart

Association (AHA) ACLS guidelines. We also

teach intubation in this module. The student will

learn this advanced airway skill in the first weeks of

the module and then practice intubation nearly

every class throughout the module.

Practical – Skill training includes the use of the

EKG/Defibrillator, administering drugs through IV

sets, and managing acute coronary patients by

following the current AHA advanced cardiac life

support (ACLS) guidelines. Practical skills are

evaluated using task analysis and the NREMT skills

sheets. A passing score is determined by how many

points the student receives from the skill sheet. 80%

is the minimal score for successful completion.

Students are tested on the following skills:

1. Medication Administration

2. Static cardiology

3. Dynamic cardiology

4. Ventilatory Management – Adult

(intubation)

Clinical Obligation - Students are required to

spend 48 hours on the ambulance and participate in

a 12-hour emergency room clinical. During this

module, the student will also visit to the operating

room to “tag-along” with an anesthesiologist. This

clinical will be approximately 8 hours but could last

12 hours.

Medical Emergencies I Module

Lecture - This class is the lecture portion of the

third term of classes required for certification as a

Paramedic. Lecture topics will be focused on the

following medical emergency groups: respiratory

emergencies, cardiology, neurology, endocrine,

allergic reactions, gastroenterology, and urology.

This course directly follows the Cardiology module.

Practical – The practical portion of the class will

involve scenario-based education and weekly

skills testing. Practical skills are evaluated using

task analysis/skills sheets. A passing score is

determined by how many points the student

receives from the skill sheet. 80% is the minimal

score for successful completion. At the end of

the module, students are tested on the following

skills:

1. Static cardiology

2. Team scenario

3. Out-of-Hospital Scenario

Clinical Obligation - Students are required to

spend 48 hours on the ambulance and 12 hours

in the emergency room. In this module, the

Paramedic students will also visit the cardiac

catheterization lab to observe procedures there.

This clinical will be approximately 8 hours but

could last 12 hours.

Medical Emergencies II Module

Lecture- This class is the lecture portion of the

fourth term of classes required for will focus on

the following medical emergency groups:

toxicology, environmental emergencies,

hematology, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics,

neonatology, and geriatrics. This course directly

follows Medical Emergencies I.

Practical – The practical portion of the class

will involve scenario-based education and

weekly skills testing. Practical skills are

evaluated using task analysis/skills sheets. A

passing score is determined by how many points

the student receives from the skill sheet. 80% is

the minimal score for successful completion. At

the end of the module students are tested on the

following skills:

1. Team scenario

2. Dynamic cardiology

3. Out-of-Hospital Scenario

Clinical Obligation - Students are required to

spend 48 hours on the ambulance and participate

in a 12-hour emergency room clinical. During

this module, the student will also visit the OB

and delivery room to view childbirth.

16

Trauma Management Module

Lecture - Topics will be focused on the

following: kinematics of trauma, shock, soft

tissue injuries, musculoskeletal injuries, head

and spinal injuries, chest and abdominal injuries,

and trauma assessment. This module directly

follows Medical Emergencies II.

Practical - The practical portion of the class will

involve scenario-based education, trauma

assessment and trauma skills testing. Practical

skills are evaluated using task analysis and the

NREMT skills sheets. A passing score is

determined by how many points the student

receives from the skill sheet. 80% is the minimal

score for successful completion. Students are

tested on the following skills: 1) Trauma patient

management, 2) Basic trauma skills (KED major

bleeding, splinting and backboarding).

Clinical Obligation - Students are required to

spend 48 hours on the ambulance and participate

in a 12-hour emergency room clinical. During

this module, the student will complete a second

ER “rotation” with the Helen Devos Children’s

Hospital. This clinical will be most likely be

scheduled for 12 hours. Finally, the student will

also be required to complete psychiatric

/behavioral emergencies. These clinical

“rotations” are completed with social service

professionals in an emergency room or at Pine

Rest.

Operations and Review Module

Lecture - This class is the lecture portion of the

sixth and final term of classes required for

certification as a Paramedic. Lecture topics will be

focused on the following review of information

learned in the previous Paramedic modules. We

will also spend some time covering: multiple

casualty incidents, military medicine, hazardous

materials, rescue and extrication, and water rescue.

This class directly follows the Trauma module.

Practical - The practical portion will involve a

more elaborate scenario based educational

experience and NREMT skills testing. At the end

of the module the students are tested on the

following skills: 1) Oral station 2) Static cardiology

3) Dynamic cardiology 4) Team scenario.

Clinical Obligation - Students are required to

spend 48 hours on the ambulance and 12 hours in

the Emergency Room. During this module, the

student will also visit to the operating room to “tag-

along” with an anesthesiologist. This clinical will

be approximately 8 hours but could last 12 hours.

Lastly, the student will also attend an ICU clinical

at Metro Health Hospital.

250-Hour internship

The Operations module is followed by a 250-hour

Advance Life Support internship. This internship

needs to be completed on an ALS ambulance and is

completed in 90 days. The internship differs from

the clinical obligation in one distinct way. Now, the

student is expected to lead the Paramedic crew

through the patient care encounters. The Paramedic

crew will require the student to initiate patient

contact and tell them how to proceed in the

treatment and transport of the patient. During the

internship, students will also have an opportunity to

complete a “tag along” with Dr. Matthew Singh at

one of the Spectrum-Health emergency rooms.

17

Breakdown of the Paramedic Course

Paramedic Hours Practical testing Clinical

Preparatory /

EMT-Specialist

112

Airway - Supraglottic

Peds Respiratory Compromise

I.V. Therapy

Medication Administration

IO Placement

Trauma Management

Medical Management

Basic Trauma Skills

48 hrs-ALS Ambulance

12 hrs-Emergency Room

Cardiology

96

Medication administration

Dynamic Cardiology

Static Cardiology

48 hrs-ALS Ambulance

12 hrs-Emergency Room

8-12 Hrs-Anesthesiology

Medical

Emergencies I

96

Static Cardiology

Team Scenario

Out-of-Hospital Scenario

48 hrs-ALS Ambulance

12 hrs-Emergency Room

8-12 hours Cardiac Cath

Medical

Emergencies II

96

Dynamic Cardiology

Team Scenario

Out-of-Hospital Scenario

48 hrs-ALS Ambulance

12 hrs-Emergency Room

8-12 hrs-OB / Delivery

Trauma

Management

96

Trauma Management Station

Random Trauma Skill

48 hrs-ALS Ambulance

12 hrs-Emergency Room

12 hrs- Helen Devos

Operations/Review

96

Ventilatory management - Adult

Ventilatory management - Peds

I.V. Therapy

Medication Administration

IO Placement and fluid bolus

Dynamic Cardiology

Static Cardiology

Oral Station

Out-of-Hospital Scenario

48 hrs-ALS Ambulance

12 hrs-Emergency Room

8-12 hrs-Anesthesiology

8 hours ICU

Internship 592

During the internship, students are

awarded the following cards: AHA BLS

for Healthcare Provider and ACLS.

250 hours

18

EMT Schedule for 2018

Course Dates Days / Times

February 2018

Day

2-6-2018 to 5-31-2018

Orientation: 1-23-2018 12:30 PM

Tuesday and Thursday

12:30 PM to 4:30 PM

February 2018

Night

2-6-2018 to 5-31-2018

Orientation: 1-23-2018 6:00 PM

Tuesday and Thursday

6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

June 2018 6-5-2018 to 8-9-2018

Orientation: 5-22-2018 11:00 AM

Tuesday and Thursday

10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

September 2018

Day

9-4-2018 to 1-17-2019

Orientation: 8-21-2016 12:30 PM

Tuesday and Thursday

12:30 PM to 4:30 PM

September 2018

Night

9-4-2018 to 1-17-2019

Orientation: 8-21-2018 6:00 PM

Tuesday and Thursday

6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

EMT-Specialist Schedule for 2018

Course Dates Days / Times

June 2018 June 12, 2018 to August 16, 2018

Orientation: 5-29-2018 2:00 PM

Tuesday and Thursday

11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

September 2018

September 10, 2018 to December 19,

2018

Orientation: 8-27-2018 6:00 PM

Monday and Wednesday

6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Paramedic Schedule for 2018

Course Dates Days / Times

June 2018

June 12, 2018 to June 13, 2019

250-hour clinical internship needs to be

completed by September 20, 2019

Orientation: 5-29-2018 2:00 PM

Tuesday and Thursday

11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

September 2018

September 10, 2018 to February 12, 2018

250-hour clinical internship needs to be

completed by May 22, 2020.

Orientation: 8-27-2018 6:00 PM

Monday and Wednesday

6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

The Clinical Experience

Students will be required to sign up for all their

clinical obligations early in the course.

Throughout the course, there may be occasions

when the student will need to change the

schedule. This will be done by contacting the

Clinical Coordinator at the earliest possible

time. Clinical scheduling can be very difficult.

It is expected that the student will sign up for

clinicals in such a manner that would avoid

schedule changes or conflicts.

All clinicals will be scheduled through the

Clinical Coordinator. If students sign up for

clinicals outside of the “system” used to

schedule clinicals, the time spent at those

clinicals will not count towards their clinical

obligations and the student may be dis-enrolled

from the course

Immunization Policy

Students must supply The Academy with proof

of the following immunizations and health

screening:

1. Flu vaccine

2. Varicella/chicken pox vaccine

3. Hepatitis B vaccine (started or complete)

4. MMR vaccine

5. Tetanus vaccine

6. T.B. screening (within last 12 months).

Copies of this proof will be placed in the

student’s record and the Director or primary

instructor will sign off the student’s syllabus,

which will allow the student to participate in

clinicals. No student will participate in clinicals

until they have met their obligation to provide

this proof.

Confidentiality While attending clinicals, students must

demonstrate the respect for confidentiality. The

Director of Operations will be responsible for

investigating and documenting any suspected of

breaches in patient confidentiality. Lapses in

judgment that result in a patient’s privacy being

violated can result in immediate dismissal from

the Academy.

Rules for the Clinical Environment The rules listed below are set forth to assure the

various clinical sites that students will be

professional and will follow set policies.

Students who violate these rules can be

dismissed from The Academy without prospect

of reclaiming their tuition.

1. Falsifying records for time spent at clinical

sites will not be tolerated.

2. Demonstrating lack of medical ethics such

as disclosure of confidential information

will be investigated and would most likely

lead to a written warning followed by

removal from the course.

3. Harassing employees, patients or other

individuals encountered at clinical sites is

obviously barred. Harassment of a

threatening nature may be grounds for

immediate dismissal.

4. Stealing property owned or leased by the

clinical site will mean immediate dismissal

and charges will be pressed.

5. The use of illicit drugs or alcohol within 8

hours before a clinical experience will

warrant dismissal from The Academy.

20

Clinical Uniform Standards

EMT students at the Academy wear a clinical

uniform to all clinicals and to some of the

classroom sessions. The Academy has earned a

reputation for providing well-prepared and

professional prehospital care providers. To

maintain this reputation, the students must present

themselves in a highly professional manner while

in the public’s eye and wearing the clinical

uniform.

Dark blue working pants: These can be any

brand. The student should consider purchasing the

pants from a company that sells uniforms to EMS

workers. These pants should be well fitted to the

student. No holes or frayed edges.

Blue uniform shirt: The blue uniform shirt can

be long or short sleeved. The shirt will be

purchased at Nye Uniform. This shirt will be

clean, well fitted to the student, and free of

wrinkles when worn in public. Student will not

wear long sleeves shirts under a short sleeve

uniform shirt.

Black boots: Students are encouraged to wear

black working boots for the ambulance clinicals.

These boots are the standard footwear for people

working in EMS. Students can wear a black shoe.

If black shoes are worn the student will wear dark

socks. The shoe will be all black. If the shoe or

boot has laces, the laces will be black. Running

shoes and tennis shoes are not appropriate.

Belt: The uniform will be worn with a belt. The

belt will be black or dark blue. Students should use

a belt that is typically used in EMS.

T-shirt: Students should wear a T-shirt with the

uniform. This t-shirt will be white and will be free

of any writing or graphics that can be seen through

the uniform shirt.

Name tags and assorted uniform items: The

student may elect to adorn their shirt with various

accoutrements. Brass nameplates are common

items worn on the uniform. These can be

purchased at Nye Uniform for approximately

$10.00.

Students should understand that when they are

wearing the uniform they represent The Academy

and the EMS industry. Students need to keep their

uniforms clean, wrinkle-free, and professional

looking. When wearing the Great Lakes EMS

Academy uniform, students should adhere to the

clinical attire standards set below.

Haircuts/Hairstyles: Student’s hair must be neat,

clean, and secured away from the face. Male

student’s hair will be no longer than shoulder

length.

Hygiene: Students will practice good personal

hygiene habits throughout the course. Students

cannot smell bad while in the clinical environment.

Use soap and shampoo and deodorant.

Facial Hair: Mustaches will be neat, clean, and

kept off the upper lip. No other facial hair will be

authorized. No beards, no goatees, no long

sideburns.

Finger nails: Nails will be short and clean. Clear

nail polish is preferred. No brightly colored nail

polish. Acrylic nails are prohibited.

Jewelry: Only two stud-type earrings (one in each

earlobe) are allowed during clinicals. If you are

going to wear an earring you need to wear two

earrings. No other visual piercing will be

authorized. Nothing will be worn on the eyebrows,

tongue, lip, cheek, nose, or around the exterior

aspect of the ear.

Tattoos: Students are not allowed to have tattoos

visible while wearing the clinical uniform.

Students who are caught violating the clinical

uniform standards will be asked to leave the

clinical environment. If the student is wearing the

clinical uniform improperly to class, they will be

asked to leave the classroom until the correction

can be completed and the student can comply with

the standard.

21

The History of Great Lakes EMS Academy

The Great Lakes EMS Academy opened their

doors in the fall of 1997. At that time,

Georgetown Township Fire Department

allowed Steve Huisman to use their new fire

stations in trade for some EMT classes. The

First Paramedic class started in September of

1998. By August of 1999, the Academy had

completed the process to be licensed as a

proprietary school and was one of the first

training site to complete the new approval

procedure for teaching EMS education in the

State of Michigan.

In August 2002, The Great Lakes EMS

Academy changed the Paramedic curriculum

to follow the new national standards. The

course changed from a 10-month course to a

16-month course and now required a post-

secondary anatomy and physiology class as a

prerequisite or co-requisite.

In January 2003, the Great Lakes EMS

Academy moved to an office building at the

Boulder Bluff Office Complex. After

continued growth and success the Academy

moved again in September of 2007 to 1010

Front Street NW in Grand Rapids, MI. In

September 2011, the Academy moved to its

current location at 1001 South Division

Avenue in Grand Rapids, MI.

The Great Lakes EMS Academy and

Davenport University formed a consortium in

October of 2012 and started working together

to improve and expand the education value of

the Paramedic curriculum. Students can now

obtain 39 credits at Davenport University upon

successful completion of the Paramedic

course.

The Academy was awarded a programmatic

accreditation by the Commission on

Accreditation of Allied Health Education

Programs (CAAHEP) in July of 2017.

Programmatic Accreditation examines specific

programs.

The standards by which our paramedic program

has been measured was developed by

professionals involved EMS education and are

intended to reflect what a person needs to know

and be able to do to function successfully within

the pre-hospital care profession.

Description of Facilities

The Academy is located at 1001 South Division

Avenue in Grand Rapids, MI. Our main campus

is a 100-year old hotel that was completely

renovated in 2011 to meet the unique demands

of EMS training. We have 10,000 square feet of

space that includes three (3) large classrooms

and seven (7) smaller classrooms that are perfect

for small group discussion, skills practice, and

medical simulations. There is a break room and

common area that is available to the students to

come in early or stay late after class to study or

practice skills. There are computers with

Internet access available for all students to use

along with a small library available for further

reading.

On the first floor of The Academy we have the

patient compartment from a Type I ambulance

mounted on a platform for scenario-based

education. We also have the passenger

compartment from a 4-door Pontiac Grand Am

set on casters to help us complete extrication

training while inside a climate controlled

atmosphere. The campus is handicap accessible

and has free parking for students and visitors.

Equipment furnished by the school

The student must furnish pens or pencils and a

notebook. All the equipment used for EMS

instruction is supplied by the Academy. There

is no requirement for the students to purchase

stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs or “jump

kits”. Our inventory of equipment includes:

high fidelity mannequins, full ALS mannequins,

advanced Airway heads, MedTronic LifePack12

heart monitors, pediatric ALS mannequins,

intravenous (IV) and intraosseous (IO) training

models, backboards with immobilization

equipment, and all the basic equipment required

by the state of Michigan for EMT and paramedic

programs.

22

The Staff at Great Lakes EMS Academy

The individuals listed below are the instructors and

staff that the students will most often communicate

with as they are registering for class and

completing their course of instruction.

Steve Huisman, NRP, EMS IC Steve Huisman is the President and owner of Great

Lakes EMS Academy. He received his EMT

training through the U.S. Navy and Paramedic

Training through Davenport CSEMS in 1987.

Since that time, he has worked in the Detroit EMS

system and for American Medical Response

(AMR) of West Michigan. He has been teaching

Paramedic classes since 1998.

Melissa Huisman, EMS IC Melissa is the Director of the Academy and works

as an instructor for both EMT and Paramedic

courses. She attended Davenport CSEMS for her

EMT certification. She finished her Paramedic

training at Muskegon Community College.

Melissa worked for AMR from 1991 to 2010.

While at AMR, she worked as a Paramedic and

Supervisor until 2002. She then took a full-time

position with Great Lakes EMS Academy.

Robert Schmitt, PAC EMTS IC Robert came to work for the Academy in 2015 as

the Director of Program Development. His duties

include: 1) assuring that curriculum that we are

teaching is current and effective, 2) evaluating

and improving the instructors, 3) verifying the

various examinations used at the

Academy. Robert has been involved in EMS

since the 1990 when he worked as a paramedic

for a Fire Department near Chicago. Since that

time, he has earned a Master of Medical Science

Degree and is a practicing Physician Assistant.

He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience

to his position and will help the Academy to

continue to “sharpen the saw” and maintain the

Academy’s standing among the best EMS training

sites in Michigan.

Geral Morton, MA, NRP, EMS IC Jerry is the Lead Paramedic Instructor at Great

Lakes EMS Academy. He is a retired Professor

of English from Auburn University at

Montgomery. His second career has been with

EMS. He has worked in hospitals and for

ambulance services since 2006. He brings a

wealth of experience and an academic

background to the staff. He has worked at the

Academy since 2016.

Leonard Goodblood, EMS IC Leonard “Buzz” Goodblood is the primary EMT

Instructor for Great Lakes EMS Academy. He has

been a Paramedic since the early 80s, after

graduating from Davenport CSEMS. During his

career, he has worked for Life EMS and American

Medical Response. Buzz has been teaching at The

Academy since 2000. Now, he teaches both EMT

and Paramedic courses.

Amy Eickelberg, EMS IC Amy is the Clinical Coordinator for the Academy

and works as an instructor for both EMT and

Paramedic courses. She attended Great Lakes

EMS Academy for her Paramedic training and

worked at American Medical Response from 2003

to 2007.

Hollie Pykonen, EMS IC Hollie has been teaching at the Academy since

2011. She attended school here in 2009 to get her

Paramedic and has been working at Oceana County

Emergency Medical Services ever since that time.

Program Goals

The primary purpose of Great Lakes EMS

Academy is to provide Emergency Medical

Services (EMS) training for a diverse student

population pursuing a career in pre-hospital

medicine. Upon successful completion of a course

the student will be authorized to take the National

Registry (NREMT) Examination. The Academy is

a certificate granting school. Students do not

receive a degree, a diploma, college credit or a

license to work as an EMT or Paramedic.

Our goal for the EMS courses is to prepare

competent entry-level Medical First Responder

(MFR), Emergency Medical Technician – Basic

(EMT-B), or Paramedics in the cognitive

(knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective

(behavior) learning domains.

23

Values

In fulfilling our mission, we are committed to the

following values:

1. Serving the educational needs of our

students by providing courses that

maintain high academic standards and

integrity.

2. Helping students succeed in meeting their

educational goals by providing

comprehensive instructional and student

support services.

3. Challenging students to participate fully in

the learning process by teaching students

to be responsible for their academic

success.

4. Promoting awareness of and maintaining

sensitivity to ethnic, cultural, and gender

diversity within our student body, faculty

and staff.

5. Developing a respect for public service

and life-long learning in our students.

6. Maintaining the stability of our institution

by exercising sound resource development

and use to meet our commitments to the

public.

7. Promoting and maintaining a safe learning

and working environment.

Philosophy

The Academy’s mission statement affirms that

we are responsible for two things: Prepare

students to take the NREMT tests and to train

students to safely and effectively work in

Emergency Medical Services.

We have a duty to make sure that the students

who attend The Academy are given every

opportunity for success. However, at the same

time, students have a responsibility to participate

in class and study the material outside of class.

If a student does not measure up to the standards

that we publish as the criteria for success, they

will not successfully complete the course. We

provide superior education by offering:

1. A substantial clinical experience.

2. Engaging didactic instruction.

3. Constructive practical training.

4. Critical evaluation and feedback.

The Davenport University Partnership

We are pleased to introduce a unique partnership

between Great Lakes EMS Academy (GLESMA) and

Davenport University (DU). This alliance has formed

the Great Lakes EMS Academy/Davenport University

Consortium This relationship can save you thousands of

dollars in tuition costs as you enhance your value to

prospective employers by earning a Bachelor of Science

degree.

How It Works

Specific Great Lakes EMS Academy credits that you’ve

earned or will earn can be credited toward a Davenport

University Bachelor of Science degree.

Option I

• Enroll at GLEMSA/DU Consortium and Davenport

University concurrently

• Successfully complete the GLEMSA/DU

Consortium Paramedic program

• Earn your State of Michigan Paramedic License

• Earn 39 credit hours of articulated credit toward a

Davenport University Bachelor of Science degree

• Complete your degree at Davenport University

Option II

• Enroll at GLEMSA/DU Consortium

• Successfully complete the GLEMSA/DU

Consortium Paramedic program

• Earn your State of Michigan Paramedic license

• Earn 39 credit hours of articulated credit toward a

Davenport University Bachelor of Science degree

Find Out More

Call us at 800-686-1600. We have representatives who

can meet with you to talk about your plans.

The Benefits

• Save time and money

• Enhance educational experience

• Expand job opportunities

• Maximize earning potential

Accreditation

Davenport is accredited by Higher Learning

Commission (HLC) - a Commission of the North

Central Association

230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500,

Chicago, Illinois 60604-1411

Phone: 800.621.7440 info@hlcommission.org

24

Governing Body

President/ Owner

Steve Huisman, EMS IC

Phone: (616) 459-1736

Steve @GreatLakesEMS.com

Director of Operations

Melissa Huisman EMS IC

Phone: (616) 459-1736

Melissa @GreatLakesEMS.com

Medical Director

Matt Singh, MD

mattsingh394@gmail.com

Educational Faculty

Steve Huisman, NRP, EMS IC Primary Paramedic Instructor

Melissa Huisman, EMS IC Director of Operations

Robert Schmitt, PA-C, EMS IC Director of Program Development

Gerald Morton, MA, NRP, EMS IC Lead Paramedic Instructor

Hollie Pykonen, EMS IC Paramedic Instructor

Amy Eickelberg, EMS IC Clinical Coordinator

Leonard Goodblood, EMS IC Primary EMT Instructor

Advisory Board

1. Steve Huisman, EMS IC President Great Lakes EMS Academy

2. Karen Daley, PhD, RN Dean, College of Health

Professions

Davenport University

3. Matthew Singh, MD, FACEP Medical Director Spectrum Health

4. Robert Schmitt, PAC, EMS IC Program Director Great Lakes EMS Academy

5. Melissa Huisman, EMS IC Director of Operations Great Lakes EMS Academy

6. Gerald W. Morton, MA, EMS IC Lead Paramedic Instructor Great Lakes EMS Academy

7. Steve MacBride, EMS IC Firefighter Grand Rapids Fire Department

8. Randy Heaton, Paramedic Deputy Ottawa County Sherriff

Department

9. Mark Fankhauser, EMS IC Firefighter Grand Rapids Fire Department

10. Lance Corey, EMS IC Director of Operations Kent County EMS

11. Mel Oakley, EMS IC Education Coordinator American Medical Response

12. Kraig Dodge, EMS IC Vice Pres. of Resource Delivery Life EMS Ambulance

13. Amy Calvert, RN, Paramedic EMS Liaison Mercy Health Saint Mary’s

Hospital

14. Laura Maclam, RN, Paramedic Spectrum Trauma Services Spectrum Hospital

15. Olivia Pfund, NRP Former Student Rockford Ambulance

16. Timothy Fonger, NREMT Current student Great Lakes EMS Academy

17. Lisa Beison HR Representative Gill Manufacturing

25

Certification and Licensing

The Academy prepares students to take the

National Registry Emergency Medical Technician

(NREMT) exam. After the successful completion

of a course, the student will be given a course

completion certificate and an application to apply

for the NREMT examination. The student’s name

will be forwarded to the State EMS offices.

The NREMT exams are developed from the

national curricula and the job practice analysis.

NREMT for EMT-Basic students

The EMT-Basic student will complete a skills

verification process during the EMT course.

Students will register a username and password

with the National Registry of EMTs at

www.NREMT.org.

Towards the end of the course, the student will

complete an application to take the EMT-Basic

Computer Based Test (CBT). That student can pay

for the test immediately after successful

completion of the course. The candidate will

reserve a date and time with a Pearson VUE testing

facility. This process must be completed by the

student.

The National Registry will offer appropriate

accommodations for the CBT component of the

examination for those persons with a documented

learning disability. The documentation must

include a diagnosis of a learning disability in

reading decoding and/or reading comprehension

and/or written expression based upon results of

standardized psycho-educational assessments

administered within 5 years of date of application.

Upon successful completion of the NREMT

testing process the individual needs to apply for a

licensure through the State of Michigan. No other

testing is required. However, there is a fee of

$40.00 and a criminal background check.

The State will license the individual for three

years. Individuals have two years from the time

they graduate class to successfully pass the

NREMT exam.

NREMT for Paramedic students

While in their internship, the student will complete

an application to take the computer Based Test

(CBT). Immediately upon successful completion of

the course, the candidate will reserve a date and

time with a Pearson VUE testing facility. This

process must be completed by the student.

Paramedic students are required to complete a

NREMT practical skill verification testing process.

The candidate will need to complete a reservation

for the practical skills test, which is administered

through the State EMS office. The reservation form

can be found online at www.michigan.gov/ems.

Upon successful completion of the NREMT testing

process the individual needs to apply for a licensure

through the State of Michigan. No other testing is

required. There is an $80.00 fee for Paramedic

licensure. There is also a criminal background

check. The State will license the individual for

three years.

NREMT Testing Requirements:

1. Candidates must be 18 years old

2. Candidates have two years to pass the

NREMT exam after graduation.

3. Candidates must complete the felony

statement on the application and submit the

documentation necessary.

4. Candidates must submit a current CPR for the

professional rescuer

Great Lakes EMS Academy makes no guarantees

that students will successfully pass the NREMT

exam. However, we will publish the results of

students NREMT examinations and answer any

questions in regards to our pass rate for the NREMT

examinations. The student is responsible for

scheduling and paying for the NREMT examination

and for Michigan Licensure.

Employment Assistance

Great Lakes EMS Academy is not affiliated with

any organization that employs Emergency Medical

Technicians or Paramedics. However, we do have

an employment assistance program that is provided

to successful students for no additional expense.

Staff members will help students with creating and

distributing résumés to various employers.

Websites for more information

1. Davenport University www.davenport.edu

2. State of Michigan EMS Office www.michigan.gov/mdch

3. Bureau of Labor and Statistics www.bls.gov

4. American Medical Response www.ems-education.com

5. Life EMS Ambulance www.lifeems.com

6. Rockford Ambulance Service www.rockfordambulance.com

7. National Registry of EMTs www.NREMT.org

8. National Association of EMTs www.naemt.org

9. National Highway and Traffic Safety Agency www.EMS.gov

What is Emergency Medical Service (EMS)?

Emergency Medical Services, more commonly known as EMS, is a system that provides emergency medical

care. Once it is activated by an incident that causes serious illness or injury, the focus of EMS is emergency

medical care of the patient(s). EMS is most easily recognized when emergency vehicles or helicopters are

seen responding to emergency incidents. But EMS is much more than a ride to the hospital. It is a system of

coordinated response and emergency medical care, involving multiple people and agencies. A comprehensive

EMS system is ready every day for every kind of emergency.

EMS is an intricate system, and each component of this system has an essential role to perform as part of a

coordinated and seamless system of emergency medical care. An EMS system comprises the following

components:

1. Private ambulance companies

2. Communications networks

3. Trauma systems, and specialty care centers

4. Rehabilitation facilities

5. Highly trained professionals

6. Police agencies and Fire departments

7. Physicians, nurses, and therapists

8. An informed public

EMS does not exist in isolation, but is integrated with other services and systems intended to maintain and

enhance the community’s health and safety. EMS operates at the crossroads between health care, public health

and public safety. A combination of the principles and resources of each is employed in EMS systems. While

EMS providers work in the community, they are often the first to identify public health problems and issues.

Since EMS providers respond to all kinds of emergencies and all kinds of hazards, they often work shoulder-

to-shoulder with public safety colleagues in law enforcement and fire services. However, their primary mission

is emergency medical care.

The organizational structure of EMS, as well as who provides and finances the services, varies significantly

from community to community. Pre-hospital services can be based in a fire department, a hospital, an

independent government agency, a non-profit corporation or be provided for by commercial for-profit

companies. Regardless of provider, the essential components of an EMS System remain the same.

A Career in EMS

Every day in West Michigan, people experience

traumatic injuries and life-threatening illnesses.

The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system is

there to respond to the call for help. Emergency

Medical Technicians and Paramedics rush to the

scene of these 911 calls. EMTs play “medical

detective” to determine the patient’s pre-existing

medical conditions, recent activities, daily

medications and any other contributing factors.

Following standing operating procedures, the

EMTs perform emergency skills to open airways,

restore breathing, control bleeding, and treat for

shock. While at the scene, the EMT may be

required to: Place simple airways, administer

oxygen, ventilate patients, manage emotionally

disturbed patients, assist in childbirth, bandage

wounds, splint broken bones, extricate and

immobilize patients from wrecked cars, care for

gunshot wounds, burns, and multi-systems trauma,

administer medications to help a patient

complaining of chest pain, shortness of breath and

altered mental status or life threatening allergic

reaction. Paramedics have the training required to

offer the most advanced pre-hospital care, such as

starting IVs, placing advanced airways,

administering drugs, interpreting EKGs, and using

monitors and other complex equipment.

The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics believes the

growth rate for jobs in EMS is expected to be over

24% through 2024, that is much faster than the

average for all occupations.

www.BLS.gov

Great Lakes EMS Academy has enjoyed a great

reputation and considerable success in EMS

training since 1998. What benefits would a student

appreciate at the Academy? The Instructors

actively work in EMS. Experience in EMS is an

essential aspect of this type of training. The

Academy has more clinical sites available for the

students to choose from for a more varied clinical

experience. We have clinical contracts with

American Medical Response, Life EMS, Rockford

Ambulance, Med Star Ambulance, Mobile Medical

Response, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Spectrum Health,

Holland Hospital, and we are open to obtaining

short-term contracts to help students who may

come from a more rural setting.

Training EMTs and Paramedics is our primary

calling and we have been doing it successfully for

over twelve years. We only offer EMT and

Paramedic training courses. Students are not

required to pay for or attend the general education

courses typically mandated at colleges and

universities. We prepare students to take the

National Registry of EMTs computer-based tests

and practical skills evaluation. We have

maintained a noteworthy success rate for both the

EMT and Paramedic exams.

Job Analysis (from www.BLS.gov)

Significant Points

Job stress is common due to irregular hours and

treating patients in life-or-death situations. Formal

training and certification are required but State

requirements vary. Employment is projected to

grow faster than average as paid emergency

medical technician positions replace unpaid

volunteers.

Nature of the Work

People’s lives often depend on the quick reaction

and competent care of emergency medical

technicians (EMTs) and Paramedics.

Depending on the nature of the emergency, EMTs

and Paramedics typically are dispatched to the

scene by a 911 operator and often work with police

and fire department personnel. Once they arrive,

they determine the nature and extent of the

patient’s condition while trying to ascertain

whether the patient has preexisting medical

problems. Following strict rules and guidelines,

they give appropriate emergency care and, when

necessary, transport the patient. Some Paramedics

are trained to treat patients with minor injuries on

the scene of an accident or at their home without

transporting them to a medical facility. Emergency

treatments for more complicated problems are

carried out under the direction of medical doctors

by radio preceding or during transport.

EMTs and Paramedics may use special equipment

such as backboards to immobilize patients before

placing them on stretchers and securing them in the

ambulance for transport to a medical facility.

Usually, one EMT or Paramedic drives while the

other monitors the patient’s vital signs and gives

additional care as needed. Some EMTs work as part

of the flight crew of helicopters that transport

critically ill or injured patients to hospital trauma

centers.

28

At the medical facility, EMTs and Paramedics help

transfer patients to the emergency department,

report their observations and actions to staff, and

may provide additional emergency treatment. After

each run, EMTs and Paramedics replace used

supplies and check equipment. If a transported

patient had a contagious disease, EMTs and

Paramedics decontaminate the interior of the

ambulance and report cases to the proper

authorities.

Beyond these general duties, the specific

responsibilities of EMTs and Paramedics depend

on their level of qualification and training. To

determine this, the National Registry of Emergency

Medical Technicians (NREMT) registers

emergency medical service (EMS) providers at

four levels: First Responder, EMT-Basic, EMT-

Specialist, and EMT-Paramedic. Some States,

however, do their own certification and use

numeric ratings from 1 to 4 to distinguish levels of

proficiency.

First Responders are trained to provide basic

emergency medical care because they tend to be the

first people to arrive at the scene of an incident.

Many firefighters, police officers, and other

emergency workers have this level of training.

The EMT-Basic represents the first component of

the emergency medical technician system. An

EMT-Basic is trained to care for patients on

accident scenes and on transport by ambulance to

the hospital under medical direction.

The EMT-Basic has the emergency skills to assess

a patient’s condition and manage respiratory,

cardiac, and trauma emergencies. In Michigan,

EMT-Basics are also allowed to use Automatic

External Defibrillators (AEDs) to manage life

threatening cardiac dysrhythmias. The Advanced

EMT has more advanced training that allows

administration of intravenous fluids, and use of

advanced airway techniques, such as endotracheal

intubation. Paramedics provide the most extensive

pre-hospital care. In addition to the procedures

already described, Paramedics may administer

approximately 50 emergency drugs, interpret 12

lead electrocardiograms (EKGs), provide surgical

airways, and needle decompressions.

Working Conditions

EMTs and Paramedics work both indoors and

outdoors, in all types of weather. They are required

to do considerable kneeling, bending, and heavy

lifting. These workers risk noise-induced hearing

loss from sirens and back injuries from lifting

patients. In addition, EMTs and Paramedics may be

exposed to diseases such as Hepatitis-B and AIDS,

as well as violence from drug overdose victims or

mentally unstable patients. The work is not only

physically strenuous, but also stressful, involving

life-or-death situations and suffering patients.

Nonetheless, many people find the work exciting

and challenging and enjoy the opportunity to help

others.

Employment

Employment of emergency medical technicians

and Paramedics is expected to grow 24% between

2012 and 2022, which is much faster than the

average for all occupations. Growth in this

occupation is due in large part to increasing call

volume due to aging population. As a large

segment of the population—aging members of the

baby boom generation—become more likely to

have medical emergencies, demand will increase

for EMTs and Paramedics

Hospitals are increasingly specializing in treating

an illness or injury. This results in more patients

needing to be transferred to the hospital best able

to treat them. Most patients must be transferred by

ambulance, so their condition can be monitored en

route. Therefore, more demand for transfers

between hospitals increases the demand for the

services of EMTs and Paramedics.

Job prospects

Job prospects should be favorable. Many job

openings will arise from growth and from the need

to replace workers who leave the occupation

because of the limited potential for advancement,

as well as the modest pay and benefits in private-

sector jobs. In addition, full-time paid EMTs and

Paramedics will be needed to replace unpaid

volunteers. Emergency medical service agencies

find it increasingly difficult to recruit and retain

unpaid volunteers because of the amount of

training and the large time commitment these

positions require. Thus, more paid EMTs and

Paramedics are needed.

Competition will be greater for jobs in local

government, including fire, police, and

independent third-service rescue squad

departments that tend to have better salaries and

benefits. EMTs and Paramedics who have

advanced education and certifications should enjoy

the most favorable job prospects, as clients and

patients demand higher levels of care before

arriving at the hospital.

29

Training, Qualifications, Advancement

Coursework typically emphasize emergency skills

such as managing respiratory, trauma, and cardiac

emergencies and patient assessment. Formal

courses are often combined with time in an

emergency room or ambulance. The program also

provides instruction and practice in dealing with

bleeding, fractures, airway obstruction, cardiac

arrest, and emergency childbirth. Students learn to

use and maintain common emergency equipment,

such as backboards, suction devices, splints,

oxygen delivery systems, and stretchers. Graduates

of approved EMT basic training programs who

pass a written and practical examination

administered by the NREMT earn the title of

Registered EMT-Basic. The course also is a

prerequisite for Paramedic training.

The most advanced level of training for this

occupation is Paramedic. At this level, the

caregiver receives additional training in body

function and more advanced skills. A Paramedic

program can last up to 2 years. Such education

prepares the graduate to take the NREMT

examination and become certified as an EMT-

Paramedic. Extensive related coursework, clinical

and field experience is required. Due to the longer

training requirement, almost all EMT-Paramedics

are in paid positions. Refresher courses and

continuing education are available for EMTs and

Paramedics at all levels.

.

30

January 2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes:

1 2 3 4 5 6 Jan 01: New Year’s Day (NO CLASSES)

Jan 04: EMS IC Orientation

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Jan 04: First Day of ME II 11 – 5pm

Jan 08: First Day of Cardiology 6-10pm

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Jan 08: EMT class returns after Christmas break

Jan 15: M L King Day

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31 Jan 23: Orientation for June 2018 EMT (day-time) 12:30 pm

Jan 23: Orientation for June 2018 EMT (night-time) 6:00 pm

February 2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes: 1 2 3 Feb 6: First day of class (February 2018 EMT)

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Feb 14: Valentine’s Day Feb 19: Presidents' Day

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28

March 2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes: 1 2 3 Mar 1: Last Day of ME II (June 2017 medic)

Mar 6: First Day of Trauma 11-5 pm (June 2017 medic)

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Mar 30: Good Friday

31

April2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Apr 01: Easter

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 Mar 19: Last Day of Trauma (June 2017 medic)

Mar 20: First Day of Operations (June 2017 medic)

May 2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes: 1 2 3 4 5 May 13: Mother’s Day

May 28: Memorial Day (NO CLASSES)

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

May 22: Orientation for June 2018 EMT (day-time) 12:30 pm

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 May 22: Orientation for June 2018 EMT (night-time) 6:00 pm

May 29: Orientation for June 2017 medic 2:00 pm

27 28 29 30 31 May 31: Last day for FEB 2018 EMT (day-time)

May 31: Last day for FEB 2018 EMT (night-time)

June 2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes: 1 2 Jun 6: First day of class June 2018 EMT (day-time)

Jun 6: First day of class June 2018 EMT (night-time)

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Jun 12: First day of class (June 2018 medic 11-5 pm)

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Jun 14: Last Day of Class (June 2017 medic)

Jun 14: First Day of Internship (June 2017 medic)

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Jun 17: Father’s Day

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

32

July 2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Jul 04: Independence Day (NO CLASSES)

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31

August 2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes: 1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Aug 9: Last day of class for June 2018 EMT (day-time)

Aug 9: Last day of class for June 2018 EMT (night-time)

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Aug 16: Last day of class (June 2018 medic)

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Aug 21: Orientation for June 2018 EMT (day-time) 12:30 pm

Aug 21: Orientation for June 2018 EMT (night-time) 6:00 pm

26 27 28 29 30 31 Aug 27: Orientation for Sep 2018 medic 6:00 pm

September 2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes: 1 Sep 03: Labor Day (NO CLASSES)

Sep 04: First day of class for June 2018 EMT (day-time)

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Sep 04: First day of class for June 2018 EMT (night-time)

Sep 4: First Day of cardiology for June 2018 medic

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Sep 10: First Day of class for Sep 2018 medic

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 Sep 14: Last Day of the Course 11-5 pm (June 2017 medic)

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30

33

October 2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes: 1 2 3 4 5 6 Oct 08: Columbus Day

Oct 31: Halloween (NO CLASSES)

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31

November 2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes: 1 2 3 Nov 11: Veterans Day

Nov 22: Thanksgiving Day

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Thanksgiving Break Nov 21 – Nov 23 (NO CLASSES)

Nov 8: Last Day of cardiology for June 2018 medic

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Nov 13: First Day of ME I for June 2018 medic

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30

December 2018

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Notes: 1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Dec 19: Last Day of class for Sep 2018 medic (preparatory)

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 Dec 25: Christmas Day

Christmas Break Dec 20 – Jan 7 (NO CLASSES)

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30 31