EMT Frequently Asked Questions

EMT R169 FAQ’s

Q.        Is a CPR card a prerequisite for the EMT R169 course?

A.        YES, you must have a current CPR card from either the American Heart Association or American Red Cross as listed below:                                   

American Heart Association - "Healthcare Provider" BLS OR

Red Cross - "Basic Life Support (BLS) for the Healthcare Provider"

American Heart Association - Sample
 
American Heart Association - Sample

Cards from Training Solutions, EZ CPR, or any online program will NOT be accepted.  If you have any questions, please email the EMT program coordinator or your instructor.

Q.        What is the minimum age to attend class?

A.        Due to the clinical site partner’s contractual requirements, you MUST be 18 years old by the start of the class. There are no exceptions.

Q.        Is there a required health exam and drug test for the EMT course?

A.        The clinical sites require you to have a health exam including an immunization check and urine drug and alcohol test prior to going into the clinical areas. This is a cost to you and can be obtained at the Oxnard College Student Health Center (OCSHC) or through your private physician or clinic. OCSHC requires appointments and does not take walk-ins. Students are encouraged to make appointments as early as possible.

Before your appointment, your paperwork must be filled in. If you choose to go to your private physician, you must also schedule an appointment with the OCSHC to review your completed paperwork. The health exam form must be completed and all test results given to the instructor prior to the 6th week of class. If this requirement is not met, you will not be allowed to take the midterm and will be dropped from the class.

Q.       Why is a background check required for class?

A.         The California Emergency Medical Services Authority, through the Ventura County Emergency Medical Services Agency, may deny certification to those with criminal records. Also, clinical sites are requiring all students who come to their facilities to have completed a criminal background check. NOTE: If you do not pass the background check, you will not be able to go into the hospitals for clinical experience. You will not be able to get a course completion record, which is needed to become an EMT.

The background check will consist of the following:

  • SS number verification
  • Criminal Search (7 years)
  • Violent Sexual Offender and Predator Registry Search
  • HHS/OIG List of Excluded Individuals/Entities
  • GSA List of Parties Excluded from Federal Programs

Q.        Can the EMT R169 course be repeated?

A.        Per State Law and the Oxnard College catalog, students are permitted a total of 3 attempts to achieve a passing standard grade (A, B, C, P, or CR).  Withdrawals may not exceed 3 times in the same class. If a 4th attempt is authorized, it must reflect a grade other than W. Petitions for Course Repetition are available in the counseling office.

The EMT refresher course is mandated by CA law to maintain your EMT license. Therefore you may repeat the refresher course every 2 years. You may also repeat the entire course if you previously passed the course but did not obtain your NREMT certification within 2 years.

Q.        Does an EMT R169 student have to obtain a student ID card?

A.        Yes. The clinical sites require you to have a picture ID for your clinicals and ambulance ride a-longs. The Condor student ID card is the official photo identification for all Oxnard College EMT students and must be worn during your clinical visits. 

Q.        Is the EMT R169 course required to apply for the OC Fire Academy?

A.        Please refer to the OC Fire Academy website for all prerequisites. 

Q.        How does an EMT student obtain an EMT license?

A.      A student must complete the following four steps to obtain an EMT license:   

  •  Complete the EMT R169 course with a B or better.
  •  Successfully pass the NREMT skills exam
  •  Successfully pass the NREMT written exam
  •  Apply for a license at your local Emergency Medical Service Agency