confused RN or RT?

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I am currently taking my pre- reqs for a career in the medical field. I need some advice. I can't decide whether to go for Respiratory Therapist or RN. RN programs in my area have waiting lists, but I got right into an RT program. My question is, should I become an RT instead of an RN. If you had a choice, which would you pick? I just don't want to sit around waiting for years or whatever to get into an RN program.

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Specializes in ICU/ER.

See if you can shadow an RT for a shift, I think they are the rock stars of the hospital if you ask me. RT has saved my butt many times. I could not do their job though, phlem and mucus---ewwwaahhh. I can handle any other secretion but that!!

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Specializes in icu/er.
I am currently taking my pre- reqs for a career in the medical field. I need some advice. I can't decide whether to go for Respiratory Therapist or RN. RN programs in my area have waiting lists, but I got right into an RT program. My question is, should I become an RT instead of an RN. If you had a choice, which would you pick? I just don't want to sit around waiting for years or whatever to get into an RN program.

i know plenty of rt's that returned to school to become rn's. i personally know of zero rn's going to rt programs in return. as stated in the above post, it's probably best to follow both around and see your self.

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Good things come to those who wait! Nursing schools have long waiting lists for a reason. Have you tried an LPN program, the wait may be shorter and you'l have the 1st year of your RN complete and will already be a nurse!

Good luck in your decision.

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i know plenty of rt's that returned to school to become rn's. i personally know of zero rn's going to rt programs in return. as stated in the above post, it's probably best to follow both around and see your self.

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I had 2 BSN's in my A.A.S. respiratory program, they both failed out. They said they were surprised at how challenging the curriculum was. (something to keep in mind while applying) I'm not saying that NS isn't challenging, just different. Respiratory is heavy on math, gas physics, critical care, hemodynamic monitoring, and the technical aspect of things. There was an RN in the year following me who did very well, she wanted both credentials to get a job as a transplant coordinater. Most hospitals will pay for 100% of a nursing degree, which is also something to keep in mind. I work with a staff RN and a traveller RN who were RT's first. They both were able to work full time during NS, which is a "luxury" most students can't hack while in an all consuming program like nursing. RT to RN is a lateral move, but nursing holds a lot of opportunities that until very recently, respiratory had'nt even begun to offer. The pay is different as well, an RT makes about 90% of and equally experienced RN.....nursing typically has a heavier workload. Shadowing both is a good suggestion.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Tele, Peds, LDRP.

I almost went to RT school when I was frustrated by the waiting lists. I decided against it, since it wasnt really what I wanted, plus I ultimately wanted to be an RN and RT is 2 years plus another year if you take an RN bridge program. LPN was 1 year and then the 1yr bridge program, so that worked out better for me (2 years of school minus 3 years). Also many hospitals will count LPN experience as nursing experience...for example every 2 yrs LPN will count as 1 yr RN experience. Some of the ppl in my class were LPNs for 15 years so that was great for them that they wouldnt have to start out with new grad pay since it would be less than what they currently make.

In my opinion, There are far more opportunities in nursing. Also, if you become an RT and hate your job...there arent many options. If you become a nurse and hate your job, the options are unlimited because there are so many different things you can do with a nursing degree.

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