What is a probationary member and what can they do?
A probationary member is an EMT student who has passed the National Registry or NJ State EMT exam. This test usually occurs at the end of the EMT class in the same building as the class was taken. It usually takes 2-4 weeks for the test to be graded. After the test is graded, the EMT will receive a card in the mail that states that the person is an EMT. Once they get this card, they may do patient care on a call. Depending on the EMT, the probationary period may last 3-9 months. During this time, the EMT will take on more responsibilities, but be monitored by their mentor. After the 3-9 months, there will be a meeting. During this meeting if the probationary EMT, their mentor and other EMTs that work with the probationary member are comfortable with thier performance, they may become a full EMT. This will allow them to treat a patient alone in the back of the ambulance.
