In the state of NH, EMT-B's can preform combitubes, 12 leads, glucose monitoring, advanced spinal assessment (clearing of c-spine), Mark 1 Kits, Trach. Maintnece, Asprin Adminstration. The theory behind the 12 leads is that EMT-B's are usually the first ones on scene then meet up wit a medic enroute. So we dont need to know wat the strip says, as long as we can put it on and print out a strip for the incomming medic. Now i agree wit u guys 100%, having a bls provider put on a 12 lead and not being able to read it, or treat it is dumb, but in retro spact, being on scene we are more likley to get the crappy rythems, hten on the weay to or in the hospital.