You sit down to study for the NREMT, determined to crush the exam between you and your future as an EMT. You open your textbook, flip to the first chapter, and start reading. But you can’t shake the feeling that there’s got to be a better way to prepare for this test. You’re not wrong.
You can use many strategies to boost your retention and confidence before the big day. This guide will go over some of the best ways to study for the NREMT to help you get a top score and feel ready for anything on test day. For example, pharmacology is a major topic on the NREMT. Studying pharmacology will take time and focus, but you can make it easier on yourself with targeted pharmacology study tips.
Understanding the NREMT Exam Structure
The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam has two main components: cognitive and psychomotor assessments.
Cognitive Assessment
This portion evaluates the candidate's knowledge and understanding of emergency medical services. It consists of multiple-choice questions that cover various topics relevant to EMT and paramedic practice, such as patient assessment, airway management, medical emergencies, trauma care, and EMS operations.
Psychomotor Assessment
This practical component tests the candidate's ability to perform essential skills in a controlled environment. Candidates demonstrate their proficiency in various scenarios, such as performing CPR, managing trauma patients, and using medical equipment. This assessment is typically conducted hands-on with a proctor observing the candidate's performance.
Detailed Breakdown of Topics Covered in the Exam
The NREMT exam covers a comprehensive range of topics, including airway, respiration, ventilation, techniques for maintaining and securing airways, oxygen delivery, and ventilation methods.
Cardiology and Resuscitation
Understanding cardiac conditions, performing CPR, and using AEDs.
Medical Emergencies
Recognizing and managing diabetes, seizures, and allergic reactions.
Trauma
Assessing and treating traumatic injuries, including fractures, burns, and head injuries.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Managing childbirth and understanding women's health issues. EMS Operations: Knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of EMS personnel, including legal and ethical considerations.
Duration of the NREMT Test and Number of Questions
The cognitive portion of the NREMT exam typically lasts up to 2 hours. Depending on their performance during the test, candidates can expect to answer 70 to 120 questions. The number of questions may vary because of the computer adaptive testing format used by the NREMT.
Explanation of the Computer Adaptive Testing Format
The NREMT employs a Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) format, which customizes the exam based on the candidate's responses.
How It Works
The system presents more challenging questions as candidates answer questions correctly.
Conversely, if a candidate answers incorrectly, the system will provide more straightforward questions. This adaptive approach allows the exam to assess a candidate's competency more accurately.
Passing Criteria
Candidates must demonstrate consistent knowledge across various question types. The exam may end once the system determines that the candidate has either passed or failed based on their performance.
Related Reading
- How To Study For Pharmacology
- Online EMT Courses
- Paramedic Pharmacology
- EMS Pocket Prep
- Is The EMT Test Hard
Effective Study Time Management
Effective time management is crucial for success on the NREMT exam. Here are recommended study time frames based on different learning styles:
Visual Learners
Should allocate time for creating diagrams, charts, and flashcards. Aim for at least 1-2 hours of visual study each day.
Auditory Learners
Listening to lectures or discussions can be beneficial. Schedule 1-2 hours daily listening to audio resources or study groups.
Kinesthetic Learners
Learn best through hands-on practice. Set aside 2-3 hours weekly for practical skills practice and simulations.
Sample Study Plans for 4, 6, and 8-Week Preparations
4-Week Study Plan
- Focus on Airway Management and Ventilation (2 hours/day)
- Study Cardiology and Resuscitation (2 hours/day)
- Cover Medical Emergencies and Trauma (2 hours/day)
- Review Obstetrics/Gynecology and EMS Operations (2 hours/day) and take practice exams.
6-Week Study Plan
- Airway Management and Ventilation (1 hour/day)
- Cardiology and Resuscitation (1 hour/day)
- Medical Emergencies (1 hour/day)
- Trauma (1 hour/day)
- Obstetrics/Gynecology (1 hour/day)
- EMS Operations and practice exams (2 hours/day).
8-Week Study Plan
- Airway Management and Ventilation (1 hour/day)
- Cardiology and Resuscitation (1 hour/day)
- Medical Emergencies (1 hour/day)
- Trauma, Obstetrics/Gynecology, and EMS Operations (1 hour/day) with practice exams.
10 Tips for Setting Up a Structured Study Plan
1. Set Clear Goals
Define what you want to achieve each week.
2. Create a Schedule
Use a calendar to allocate specific study times.
3. Use Paramedic Flash
our flashcards use color-coded text and matching imagery to help students with learning disabilities better understand and comprehend the content.
4. Use Varied Resources
Incorporate textbooks, videos, and practice exams.
5. Stay Consistent
Stick to your study schedule as closely as possible.
6. Incorporate Practice
Regularly practice skills and take mock exams.
7. Review Regularly
Schedule time for review sessions to reinforce learning.
8. Stay Flexible
Adjust your plan as needed based on progress.
9. Stay Motivated
Reward yourself for achieving study milestones.
10. Seek Support
Join study groups or find a study partner for accountability.
The Best Way to Study for NREMT
Create a Study Schedule: Plan Your Study Session
Successful studying for the NREMT requires organization. Creating a schedule will help you break your studying into manageable chunks and keep you focused. Start by determining your test date and the resources you will use to study. Then, create a day-by-day schedule.
Identify how many days you have until the test and how many chapters or sections you must cover. Map out how many sections to study each week to complete your studies well before your test so you can have time for review. Next, create a daily schedule outlining what you will study daily. Sticking to a study schedule will help you avoid cramming and reduce test anxiety.
Use Flashcards: Utilize Tools Like Paramedic Flash for Memorization
Flashcards help break information into smaller, digestible pieces that are easier to memorize. They allow you to focus on one topic at a time for effective learning and retention.
The NREMT exam includes a variety of terms and definitions that you will need to know for the test. Using flashcards is one of the best ways to learn these terms and definitions. Paramedic Flash has a collection of color-coded flashcards to help you study for the NREMT and paramedic pharmacology. These flashcards simplify complex information and help with memorization.
Practice Tests: Take Regular Practice Exams to Gauge Your Understanding.
Practicing tests is one of the best ways to study for the NREMT. Not only do they help you learn the material, but they also allow you to become familiar with the test’s format and the types of questions you’ll see on exam day. Regularly taking practice tests during your studies helps to gauge your understanding of the material and identify areas where you need to focus your review.
Study Groups: Collaborate with Peers for Shared Learning Experiences.
Joining or forming a study group can improve your performance on the NREMT. Studying in a group helps you stay accountable and can make studying more enjoyable. In addition, discussing the material with your peers and quizzing one another can help you retain the information better than if you were studying alone.
Visual Aids: Use Diagrams and Charts to Visualize Concepts.
Paramedics need to understand complex systems of the human body and how to recognize and treat medical emergencies. Visual aids like charts, diagrams, and infographics can help you grasp this information more efficiently. You can create your visual aids to study or find premade ones online.
Teach Others: Explaining Topics to Others Reinforces Your Understanding.
Teaching someone else a concept you are trying to master is a great way to reinforce your knowledge of that subject. Explaining the material to another person can help you identify areas where you are still confused and need to focus on your studies.
Review Mistakes: Analyze Incorrect Answers to Identify Knowledge Gaps.
As you take practice tests and study, you will inevitably make mistakes. Don’t just ignore these errors. Instead, take the time to look over your incorrect answers. This will help you identify any knowledge gaps before the NREMT.
Stay Organized: Keep Your Study Materials and Notes Well-Organized.
Staying organized while studying for the NREMT will help you reduce your anxiety about the exam. Create a binder or use a digital platform to keep your notes and study materials in one location. If you have a computer or tablet, use it to take notes and create flashcards. This will allow you to eliminate unnecessary paper clutter and stay organized.
Incorporate Technology
Use Apps and Online Resources for Interactive Learning. Studying for the NREMT doesn’t have to be boring. Many apps and online resources are available to help you learn the material you need for the exam. Use these interactive tools to supplement your studies and make learning more enjoyable.
Set Realistic Goals: Break Down Your Study Objectives into Achievable Tasks.
Creating goals for your studies can help you stay focused and organized. Just be sure to create realistic goals. For instance, aim to study a chapter a day instead of setting a goal to finish all your studies in one week.
Simulate Exam Conditions
Practice Under Timed Conditions to Build Confidence. Test anxiety can negatively impact your performance on the NREMT. One way to reduce this anxiety is to simulate exam conditions as you study. To do this, take practice tests under timed conditions. This will help you get used to the pressure of working under a time constraint so that you can perform your best on the NREMT.
Stay Healthy: Maintain a Balanced Diet and Regular Exercise to Support Cognitive Function.
Maintain a Balanced Diet and Regular Exercise to Support Cognitive Function. As you study for the NREMT, don’t neglect your physical health. Exercise and a nutritious diet will help keep your brain functioning optimally so you can retain information and perform well on the exam.
Limit Distractions: Find a Quiet Study Space to Enhance Focus
Distractions can derail your studying and increase test anxiety. To prevent this, find a quiet place to study where you can focus. If you’re using a computer or tablet to study, limit distractions on these devices. Close tabs or programs unrelated to your studies and turn off notifications to prevent interruptions.
Use Mnemonics: Create Memory Aids to Help Remember Complex Information
Mnemonics are memory aids that help you memorize lists or complex information. You can create your mnemonics or look some up online to assist with your studies.
Stay Positive: Maintain a Positive Mindset and Visualize Success
A positive mindset can go a long way in reducing test anxiety and improving performance. As you study for the NREMT, visualize yourself succeeding on the exam. Imagine your relief when you pass the test and move on to the next career phase.
Practice and Preparation Strategies
Mock Exams
Simulate the exam environment with full-length practice tests. Taking practice tests to prepare for the NREMT exam helps you familiarize yourself with the structure and content of the exam. This helps alleviate anxiety on test day and increases your confidence. You will also get a good idea of your strengths and weaknesses so that you can focus your studies effectively. Use paramedic flash to access full-length practice tests that simulate the NREMT exam.
Skill Drills: Regularly practice essential skills in a controlled setting.
There are many critical skills you need to master to pass the NREMT exam and become a competent EMT. Practicing these skills in a controlled environment will help you feel more comfortable performing them on a patient. Use your course textbooks, online resources, and your class notes to identify the skills you need to know for the NREMT exam. Then, create a study schedule to help you practice these skills regularly.
Flashcards: Use flashcards for quick reviews of key concepts paramedic flash provides the best flashcards
Flashcards are one of the best ways to study for the NREMT exam. They allow you to reinforce essential terms and concepts and are easy to use in short study sessions. You can even carry them with you to study on the go. Paramedic Flash provides the best flashcards for the NREMT exam, with over 1,300 to help you prepare.
Peer Teaching: Teach peers to reinforce your understanding.
Teaching your classmates what you’ve learned is an effective way to reinforce your knowledge. As you prepare for the NREMT exam, try to study with a group of your peers. After completing a few practice tests and identifying areas of weakness, take turns teaching each other the material.
Online Resources: Utilize websites and apps for additional practice questions.
In addition to your instructor's resources, search for additional online material to help you prepare for the NREMT exam. Many websites and apps are dedicated to assisting EMTs in helping students pass their boards. These resources can be beneficial for finding practice questions and flashcards to help you study.
Scenario-Based Learning: Engage in scenario-based training to apply knowledge.
By applying your knowledge to realistic situations, scenario-based learning helps bridge the gap between the classroom and the field. This type of learning reinforces critical thinking and helps you prepare for the unexpected. Scenario-based training will also better prepare you for the NREMT exam, which tests your ability to apply knowledge to real-life situations.
Video Tutorials: Watch instructional videos to clarify complex topics.
If you encounter complex topics while studying for the NREMT exam, don’t hesitate to seek help. One of the best ways to do this is to look for instructional videos online. YouTube and websites dedicated to EMS education have many videos to help clarify complex topics and give you a better understanding of the material.
Group Discussions: Participate in discussions to explore different perspectives.
Studying for the NREMT exam doesn’t have to be a solo endeavor. Group discussions can help you better understand the material and prepare for the exam. As you review different topics, take time to explore various perspectives with your peers. This will help you develop a more well-rounded understanding of the information critical for the NREMT exam.
Time Management: Practice answering questions within a set time limit.
The time limit is one of the biggest challenges students face when taking the NREMT exam. You will have just over two hours to answer 70 questions on the cognitive exam. While this may seem like enough time, many students find themselves pressed for time and unable to complete the exam. To prevent this from happening, practice answering questions under timed conditions to get used to the pace you will need to maintain on test day.
Feedback Sessions: Seek feedback from instructors on your performance.
Don’t wait until the NREMT exam to learn how prepared you are for the test. Instead, schedule regular feedback sessions with your instructors to assess your readiness. After you complete a practice exam, review the results with your instructor to identify areas of weakness. Then, create a study plan to help you target these areas before the NREMT exam.
How to Interpret Practice Test Scores: 10 Tips for NREMT Exam Preparation
1. Identify Weak Areas
Look for subjects where scores were consistently low. Once you complete a practice exam for the NREMT, don’t just celebrate your score and move on. Instead, take time to review your results to identify areas of weakness. First, look for any subjects or categories where you scored below 70 percent. You must focus on these areas as you prepare for the NREMT exam.
2. Review Incorrect Answers
Analyze why answers were wrong to improve understanding. Next, look at the questions you answered incorrectly and review them closely. This will help you determine why you missed these questions and if any underlying issues contribute to your lack of knowledge. For example, are you having trouble with the clinical application of a topic? If so, seek out resources to help clarify the information before moving on to further practice.
3. Compare to Benchmarks
Use average scores to gauge your performance. As you begin to study for the NREMT exam, look for any available scoring benchmarks to help you assess your performance on practice exams. For example, you may find that the average score on the first practice exam is around 70 percent. With this information, you can determine that your goal should be to beat that score on the next practice test you take.
4. Track Progress
Monitor score improvements over time to assess growth. Regularly complete practice tests to gauge your progress as you prepare for the NREMT exam. Track your scores over time to ensure you are improving. While you may not see significant jumps in scores right away, you should steadily be able to improve your performance as you continue to study.
5. Focus on Trends
Identify patterns in mistakes to target specific topics. In addition to identifying weak areas, look for trends in your practice test performances. For example, if you constantly struggle with questions related to pediatrics, you may need to spend additional time reviewing this topic before the NREMT exam.
6. Adjust Study Plans
Modify your study schedule based on practice test results.
As you identify weak areas and trends in your practice test scores, be sure to adjust your study plan accordingly. This may mean reviewing specific topics or changing your study methods to help you better understand the material.
7. Seek Additional Resources
Use supplementary materials for challenging topics. Don’t shy away from complex subjects as you prepare for the NREMT exam. Instead, tackle these topics head-on by finding additional resources to help you improve. For example, if you struggle with understanding cardiac rhythms, look for online videos, flashcards, and even tutoring to help clarify the information before the exam.
8. Practice Under Pressure
Simulate exam conditions to build test-taking skills.
In addition to mastering the content on the NREMT exam, you also need to prepare yourself for the test-taking experience. This means getting used to the pressure of answering questions under a timed limit. To do this, practice taking tests under simulated exam conditions.
9. Consult Instructors
Discuss scores with instructors for personalized guidance. Discuss your performance with your instructors as you track your practice test scores. They can help you identify any areas of weakness, offer additional resources, and provide personalized feedback to help you improve.
10. Stay Positive
Use scores as a tool for improvement rather than a measure of failure.
Finally, staying positive as you prepare for the NREMT exam is essential. Practice tests can be stressful, especially if you encounter poor scores. Remember that these tests are tools to help you improve before the exam.
How to Register for the EMT Exam
The NREMT exam is a rite of passage for EMT and Paramedic students hoping to earn their national certification. However, before you can sit for this exam, you must register through the NREMT to gain eligibility. Here’s a breakdown of the registration process.
1. Create an Account on the NREMT Website
To get started, visit the NREMT website. Here, you will provide your personal information to create an account. Once you have created an account, you can log in to update your profile, complete your application, pay your fees, and more.
2. Update Your Profile
Once you have created an account, you should ensure your profile is current. This includes verifying that your contact details are current.
3. Complete the NREMT Application
Next, you will fill out the application for the EMT exam. This includes providing details about your EMT training program and disclosing any prior criminal history or issues with previous certifications. Be thorough and honest when completing your application.
4. Pay the Application Fee
After submitting your application, you will need to pay the required fee. The standard fee for the NREMT exam is $80.
5. Receive Approval
Once your application is submitted and your fee is paid, you will wait for confirmation of your eligibility to test.
6. Print Your ATT Letter
Once you are approved to sit for the exam, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) letter. This will include important information about your eligibility and next steps.
7. Schedule Your Exam
The ATT letter will include instructions on how to schedule your exam. Follow the steps included to set your exam date. You will want to do this promptly, as you only have 90 days to test after receiving your ATT letter.
Information on Fees and Necessary Documentation
The most current fee information is available on the NREMT website. In addition to the exam fee of $80, ensure you have proof of completion of an accredited EMT training program, along with any required identification, before arriving for your exam.
Where to Take the NREMT Exam
The NREMT cognitive exam is offered at various testing centers. You can find a testing location by checking the NREMT website or contacting your state EMS office for specific information.
Tips for Exam Day Success
Test days can be stressful. The best way to overcome pre-exam jitters is to prepare ahead of time and have a plan for the day of the test. Start by reviewing practical tips for success on exam day.
Get Adequate Rest
Ensure you are well-rested the night before the exam. Cramming the night before the test can lead to fatigue and confusion on exam day. Instead, aim to review your materials and study techniques weeks before the test and get a good night’s sleep before the big day.
Arrive Early
Give yourself plenty of time to check in and get settled. Aim to arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled exam. This will give you time to clear your mind and focus on the test instead of stressing about being late.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water to maintain focus and energy. While it’s essential to stay hydrated, be sure to use the restroom before the start of the test so you won’t be distracted by needing to break during the exam.
Eat a Balanced Meal
Have a nutritious breakfast to fuel your brain. Avoid sugary foods that can lead to a crash during the exam. Instead, eat complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats that will give you sustained energy.
Bring Necessary Materials
Ensure you have your ID and any required documentation. Paramedic Flash will provide a detailed list of what you must bring to the test when registering.
Why Paramedic Flash Is the Best Strategy for Exam Day
Using Paramedic Flash's resources can be one of the best strategies for exam day. The flashcards can help you quickly review key concepts and pharmacology, reinforcing your knowledge just before the exam. This process can help jog your memory and boost your confidence as you prepare to take the test.
Techniques for Maintaining Focus and Staying Calm
Even with proper preparation, some test-day anxiety is normal. The key is managing that anxiety to focus on the test and do your best.
Deep Breathing
Practice deep breathing exercises to manage anxiety. As you focus on breathing, visualize your stress and anxiety leaving your body as you exhale.
Positive Visualization
Visualize yourself succeeding on the exam. Before you enter the testing center, picture yourself calmly answering questions and passing the exam with flying colors.
Stay Present
Focus on one question at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. If you start feeling anxious, use breathing techniques to calm your nerves and regain focus.
Take Breaks
If allowed, take short breaks to clear your mind. Get up, walk around, and take some deep breaths to help you relax.
Stay Confident
Remind yourself of your preparation and knowledge. You’ve got this!
Related Reading
Become A More Powerful Paramedic & EMT with Our Paramedic Pharmacology Flashcards
The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians exam collects data on how well EMT candidates understand and can apply their knowledge to real-life emergencies. The NREMT has developed a wide variety of test questions that cover all the essential information on the EMT curriculum.
When students take the NREMT, they are not just being graded on their ability to memorize textbook information. Instead, the NREMT exam evaluates how well a student can think critically and solve problems in high-pressure situations. The NREMT exam is challenging, and feeling stressed about it is normal.
Try our paramedic pharmacology flashcards today to become a more powerful paramedic and EMT!