RN to EMT/paramedic

[Laurlaur]

Hi all,

I was just wondering whether anyone out there has been an RN then changed to be an EMT/paramedic? I am qualifying in a year as an RN, but am interested in working away from the hospital in a medical context, has anyone made this switch? If so, have you enjoyed it?

[zambezi, BSN, RN]

I dont know anything about switching, but if you are concerned about money, switching would not be in your best interest, at least where I am from. There are some jobs as flight nurses/nurse transport teams etc, but i am not sure about how much experience one must have to do this...good luck!

[cbj066]

As mentioned above, the pay cut would be significant if you plan on working as a paramedic (the difference in this region is about 50%). There are plenty of jobs for nurses outside of the hospital setting, but if you want to work as an EMT-P, don't expect equal compensation.

It would benefit you to have EMS training in certain jobs, such as a nurse in a petrochemical plant or on an oil rig.

I'd say get your paramedic, utilize the training and the skills you learn, but work as a nurse.

[Rapheal]

As a student I had a preceptor who was an RN and also a paramedic. She worked one day a week as a paramedic. She loved it. Describe herself as an "adreneline junkie." So if you want to do this, go for it and good luck.