Geriatric Education for EMS (GEMS)

Description

As the global population ages, EMS professionals must be equipped to meet the complex needs of older adults. The Geriatric Education for EMS (GEMS) course—developed by the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) in partnership with the American Geriatrics Society—delivers the essential skills and knowledge needed to provide high-quality, compassionate care to geriatric patients.

GEMS prepares EMS practitioners at all levels to navigate the medical, social, environmental, and communication challenges that are unique to this growing population.

 

GEMS Course Options

Two levels of training are available:

  • GEMS Core Course – foundational knowledge for EMS providers working with older patients
  • GEMS Advanced Course – deeper clinical insight and scenario-based training for more experienced practitioners

Who Should Attend?

GEMS is ideal for:

    • EMRs, EMTs, AEMTs, and Paramedics
    • Registered Nurses and Community Paramedics
    • Other healthcare providers who interact with geriatric patients

Notes

  • This course can be attended by EMT, AEMT & Paramedics or any other healthcare professional who may be part of Team where advanced airway skills is required.
  • Completion Requirements: Successful completion of the written final exam

Course Information

  • Duration: 8 hours
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GEMS is an immersive and engaging program that combines:

    • Case-based lectures
    • Live-action video
    • Hands-on skill stations
    • Simulations and small group scenarios

This multi-modal approach ensures students not only absorb knowledge but also practice and apply what they learn in realistic, scenario-driven environments.

Participants will gain insight into:

    • Age-related physiological changes
    • Assessment techniques for older adults
    • Polypharmacy, pharmacology & medication toxicity
    • Cardiovascular and respiratory emergencies
    • Altered mental status and neurological conditions
    • Trauma care specific to the elderly
    • Elder abuse recognition and reporting
    • End-of-life care and advanced directives
    • Psycho-social emergencies and patient communication
    • Skin and wound care management
    • Use and maintenance of common geriatric medical devices
    • Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH)
    • Disaster response considerations for elderly populations

    • Certification Validity: 4 Years
    • CAPCE Accredited
    • Recognized by the NREMT
    • Tuition Includes:
      • GEMS Course Manual
      • Certificate of Completion