Hello- I was just looking for advice. i work as a full-time firefighter/paramedic. I still enjoy my job, however I have never been real excited about the firefighting. We don't have a lot of fires in my town, but I recently have been thinking of doing a bridge to RN. I only want to do this if I am going to use it. What do you all think about resigning as a fireman, and becoming an RN. It would be pay cut, work more days, less benefits, and costly health insurance,and no pension, but I just like to help people and take care of them when there sick. I like learning all about health, and disease. Maybe even go into a PA school. What are your thoughts?

being burned by desire!!!!!

I would not even remotely consider doing what you're thinking until the job market improves for new grad RNs.

There is a very high probability you will graduate and have no job to show for it. Read any of the other threads started by people who left a good job to become an RN and now cannot find work.

i wouldn't quit my current job. i am planning on doing a bridge course while working, and wouldn't quit.

I would not even remotely consider doing what you're thinking until the job market improves for new grad RNs.

There is a very high probability you will graduate and have no job to show for it. Read any of the other threads started by people who left a good job to become an RN and now cannot find work.

that's good info to know! thanks - i'm soon to be unemployed and considered going to school for nursing, but now i think i'll do some more research before going down that road.

i wouldn't quit my current job. i am planning on doing a bridge course while working, and wouldn't quit.

That sounds like a good plan. If you are interested in advanced training, research the opportunities for NP vs PA in your area.

In our area, MDs seem to favor PAs over the NPs in many settings.

If you read allnurses, in other areas advanced practice nurses have many opportunities.

Whatever you decide, best wishes on your studies!