[♪♫ in my ♥]

Dang it. I hate it when I jump in on a stale thread. This guy/gal was making this decision back in 2002 and hasn't logged on for over a year...

All the opinions are worthwhile, though.

[Dr.Nurse2b]

Originally Posted by Notanurse

Which would you suggest for a student working towards career in CRNA? My thoughts are that EMTs also get jobs in ERs and other critical care areas...CNAs do get direct patient care and floor nursing opportunities. Any thoughts?

Hi! I did both and I am in Georgia too...

EMT --

In addition to learning how to operate an ambulance and equipment associated with fire, rescue and HAZMAT you will...

...learn about gross anatomy, physiologic processes and specific diseases and problems that you will encounter in emergency situations.

You will also learn some very valuable basic assessment skills, airway management technics and IV therapy.

So basically as an EMT you will be able to assess a patient, identify problems and provide basic life supportive treatment.

In Georgia you will not find a job unless you are an EMT - I (Intermediate) The program is 5 quarters (college credits) and provides you with lots of lab hours and about 120 hours in the field.

You will not find work in the ER as an Intermediate but ICU will happily accept you as a CCT or Critical Care Tech. The pay is fair...as much as $15 per hour base rate.

EMS also stands for Earn Money Sleeping -- when I first started out I worked in a rural area. I spent a lot of time reading, studying, eating, sleeping and working out.

City EMS...the bell rings A LOT and you are running non-stop. The shifts go by quick and you can earn good money.

CNA --

The program I attended provided a very brief and basic gross anatomy review. You will be taught skills that will allow you to collect data and document.

Basic ADL's or Activities of Daily Life will be your focus...feeding, bathing, oral care, perineal hygene, etc. Also bed making, body mechanics, and how to safely lift, move and transport patients.

I would consider this a basic, entry level position. Some hospitals will run a short in house training program - 6 weeks - and turn you loose on patients.


I would go EMT - I ...The next step is EMT-P and you need your "I" first. You get to treat patients and the job is never boring. Down the road you will be able to slide into other areas like critical care transport or life flight. CNA did not offer a challenge for me and the job is brutal on your body...especially for males...it seems I am always getting called to lift the 300 pounders.

Hope this helps.

My 2 Cents

[Dr.Nurse2b]

Originally Posted by gotosleep

Also, I don't believe that EMT training would provide you with any special expertise for aneshtesia school...

EMT A/B/C/D/I will not offer any training relative to anesthesia... BUT EMT-P you learn endotracheal intubation which is a BIG PLUS as you will be tubing people to in order to administer anesthesia. AND you will have ACLS under your belt which is also a big plus.

You'll be better prepared...

[Dr.Nurse2b]

Originally Posted by ♪♫ in my ♥

Dang it. I hate it when I jump in on a stale thread. This guy/gal was making this decision back in 2002 and hasn't logged on for over a year...

All the opinions are worthwhile, though.

LOL...I did the same thing...LOL