[JM5NA]

I have been interested in becoming a flight nurse and need a little direction. This has been a dream of mine for about ten years now. Unfortunately, due to family issues I am just now able to get started with the whole process, however I do feel fortunate that I'm even able to do this at all. Anyway, I start an ADN program next fall and I was planning on taking CNA classes in the spring just to get my foot in the door with a local hospital since they will pay for my tuition. However, I am wondering if I should take the EMT-B class instead in order to get some PH experience under my belt while I'm in Nursing school. I've also thought about doing both, cna part-time and EMT PRN. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. My ultimate goal is to have my RN/EMT-P. Another question, I have read on other posts on this site that once I have my RN I can challenge the Paramedic test. I would like to hear a few more opinions on this. I know that some of you don't think this is a good idea because the two fields are quite different. If I were to work as an EMT while in school for my RN would this be enough ph experience or would you suggest taking the complete paramedic training. Sorry for the long post. Again, any advice will be appreciated. Thanks.

[EricEnfermero]

An EMT course would be a great way to gain prehospital experience and decide whether you like it. It might even help you to transition from RN to EMT-P someday, depending on your state's procedures for that. Here in TX, RN's can take an abbreviated EMT course, then take an abbreviated paramedic course. The numbers of those programs are dwindling in my area though.

Best of luck to you!

[JM5NA]

Great, thanks for your reply. I think I'm going to go for it. Wish me luck!