Category: Emergency medical services

According to standard EMS protocols, an EMT can assist with or administer a limited number of doses of nitroglycerin, provided the patient meets specific criteria. This critical procedure requires a thorough patient assessment to ensure safety and effectiveness when determining how many doses of nitroglycerin can you give as an EMT.

EMS protocols regarding medication administration, including acetaminophen, vary significantly by state and local jurisdiction. The ability of an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) to administer acetaminophen depends on their certification level and local medical directives, with some states allowing EMTs to give oral forms and others reserving the medication for advanced providers like paramedics.

According to a 2020 national assessment, only about 4% of all EMS providers are Advanced EMTs (AEMTs), a critical role with an expanded scope of practice [1.7.2]. A key question for this level of care is, **what medications can advanced EMT give** to bridge the gap between basic EMTs and Paramedics?

Approximately 80% of all EMS calls in the US are handled by basic and advanced EMTs, highlighting the critical role these professionals play in pre-hospital care. Understanding **what level of EMT can give medication** is crucial for comprehending the tiered system of emergency medical response and the differing capabilities of its practitioners.

Over 36% of prehospital protocols reviewed in a 2024 study included oral acetaminophen, or Tylenol, highlighting its role in EMS pain management. However, the authority for EMTs to administer Tylenol is not universal and depends on state and local regulations, as well as the provider's specific training level.