What Should Be Included in a Basic EMT Kit?

Whether you’re just starting your EMT training or gearing up for ride-alongs and clinicals, having the right tools at your fingertips is essential. A well-stocked EMT kit doesn’t just help you pass skills assessments it prepares you to act quickly, think clearly, and respond effectively when it matters most.

At MedTechkits, we specialize in providing clinical kits designed specifically for EMT students. Here’s a breakdown of what should be included in a basic EMT kit and why each item matters.

Image Source: Aims Community College. Emergency Medical Technician Program Requirements.

1. Stethoscope

A reliable stethoscope is a cornerstone of any EMT kit. You’ll use it to assess heart, lung, and bowel sounds, and to check blood pressure. It should be durable, comfortable, and sensitive enough to pick up subtle sounds, even in a noisy environment.

2. Blood Pressure Cuff (Sphygmomanometer)

Vital signs are one of the first things you’ll assess in any patient. A manual BP cuff helps you practice accurate readings and develop essential clinical judgment skills you’ll carry with you into the field.

3. Penlight

Penlights are crucial for assessing pupil response and checking for neurological function. A good penlight is compact, bright, and easy to handle, especially during quick assessments.

4. Trauma Shears

Durable trauma shears allow you to cut through clothing, bandages, and other materials quickly and safely. Look for shears that are stainless steel with blunt tips for patient safety.

5. Tourniquet

You’ll learn how to manage bleeding in EMT school, and a tourniquet is a must-have for practice and simulation. It’s one of the most important tools for hemorrhage control in trauma situations.

6. CPR Mask or Face Shield

Practicing safe and effective resuscitation techniques is key in your training. A CPR mask or face shield provides a barrier while allowing you to deliver rescue breaths during CPR practice or simulation.

7. Nitrile Gloves

Protect yourself and your patients with disposable, non-latex gloves. These are critical for infection control and are often required in lab settings and clinicals.

8. Airways (OPA/NPA)

Oropharyngeal (OPA) and nasopharyngeal (NPA) airways are essential tools for managing a patient’s airway. EMT students often use them in training to learn proper sizing, insertion, and suction techniques.

9. Pocket Notepad and Pen

Documentation is a huge part of EMS work. Having a small notepad to jot down vitals, observations, or instructions during simulations helps you build strong habits early.

10. Bag or Case

All this gear needs a home. A durable, organized EMT bag makes it easy to carry your tools to and from class, labs, and clinicals. Look for a bag with multiple compartments and room for expansion.

Why a Student-Ready Kit Matters

Instead of piecing together your own supplies, MedTech offers student-ready clinical kits built in collaboration with EMT instructors and training programs. Our kits are:

  • ✅ Aligned with national EMS curriculum standards
  • ✅ Packed with the tools you’ll actually use in training
  • ✅ Organized for easy transport and access
  • ✅ Designed to build confidence and real-world skills

We take the guesswork out so you can focus on what matters: becoming the best EMT you can be.

Train With the Right Tools From Day One

Having the right equipment from the start sets you up for success in class, during labs, and out in the field. MedTechKits is here to make sure you’re prepared, confident, and ready to rise to the challenge.

Ready to build your kit?

Explore our full selection of EMT student gear and clinical kits at MedTechkit's collection shop or give us a call at 844-800-8740 to talk with our team.

Your future in EMS starts here let’s get you ready.

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