Whether you’re starting your EMS journey or advancing your skills, choosing the right course is one of the most important decisions you can make. With so many options—EMT, PHTLS, ACLS, IV Certification, and more—it can be overwhelming to figure out where to begin or what comes next.
At EMS Training Zone, we help students and professionals across Nebraska choose the right path to meet their goals. Here’s how to decide which course is right for you based on your career stage, interests, and certifications.
1. Just Starting Out? Begin with EMT Certification
If you’re new to the emergency medical field, the EMT Course is your foundation. It’s the starting point for anyone looking to work in EMS, fire departments, hospitals, or event response.
You’ll learn core skills like:
Patient assessment
CPR and AED use
Trauma and medical emergency care
Safe transport techniques
This certification is required to work on ambulances and is a prerequisite for advanced roles.
2. Already an EMT? Build Your Skills with Specialized Courses
Once you’re certified as an EMT, there are many ways to grow professionally. If you want to take on more responsibility or work in specific environments, consider courses such as:
IV Certification: Learn to start and manage IV lines—a valuable skill for field medics and advanced EMTs.
ACLS: Required for paramedics and recommended for those working in cardiac-related emergencies.
PALS: Specializes in the care of infants and children during emergencies.
CEVO: For EMS professionals who drive ambulances and need safe vehicle operation training.
Each course adds a new skill set and opens more doors for career advancement.
3. Want to Specialize in Trauma or Tactical Response?
If you’re drawn to high-intensity scenarios like mass casualty events, active shooter response, or tactical operations, we recommend:
PHTLS (Prehospital Trauma Life Support)
TCCC/TECC (Tactical Combat Casualty Care / Tactical Emergency Casualty Care)
These courses are designed to help EMS personnel perform under extreme pressure while delivering life-saving care in challenging environments. They’re excellent for paramedics, fire medics, law enforcement, and military medics.
4. Planning to Work in Pediatrics or a Hospital Setting?
For those focused on pediatric care or transitioning into hospital-based roles, PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) is essential. It teaches critical care skills specific to infants and children, including respiratory management, defibrillation, and medication protocols.
This course is often required for pediatric hospital units, emergency departments, and neonatal transport teams.
5. Trying to Stay Compliant or Renew Certifications?
Regulations change, and certifications expire. If you’re looking to renew your BLS, ACLS, or PALS, EMS Training Zone offers recertification classes designed to get you back on track quickly and efficiently.
We make it easy to stay compliant without unnecessary time away from work.
Let’s Build Your Path Together
No matter where you are in your EMS journey, EMS Training Zone is here to guide you. We offer:
Personalized course recommendations
Expert instructors with real-world experience
Flexible class schedules (day, evening, weekend options)
On-site training for departments and organizations
Ready to take the next step?
Contact us today at 📞 (402) 880-8203 or 📧 info@emstrainingzone.com and we’ll help you select the perfect course for your goals.