Hey all, I'm an older (40) student and I'm halfway through the health care prerequisites. My original idea when returning to school was to become a RRT, but I don't like what I'm reading here and there on the internet about RT's. Some people claim that full time RT jobs are scarce and that some RT's do nothing but nebulizer treatments and ABG's (in which case any nurse could easily take over the RT's job).
Some people say go RN for more options, but I think I would hate, really hate a lot of the things nurses have to do. The idea of staying in one spot, constantly checking and rechecking patients' fluids and vitals, dealing with poop, turning patients, this stuff does not appeal to me - though of course it is necessary and nurses are awesome for doing it.
What I'd really like to do is PA or NP, but my GPA's only a 2.9 because I was a slacker years ago in college. I'm pretty sure this topic has been posted before, but the job market is constantly changing, Obamacare is coming, etc. so I'd love to get some fresh perspectives. Should I consider doing RN and then school nursing, or public health clinic nurse or something like that?
Also, the RT I shadowed did nothing to inspire me about the RT field, except that he was making more than $30 per hour and didn't seem worried about job markets. $30 per hour is inspiring! I live in California but I'm single and I could move anywhere. And also, I'm nicer than this post might indicate and I do feel health care is right for me, I'm just being practical.
Just a quick note the VA I work at is begging for RRTs. They have to have travelers for a year at a time. Not bad environment not bad pay around $25 start in LCOL area. We have I believe 3 openings. Check USAJOBS.gov
Also, some CRNA schools allow you to apply as a RN with little experience if you have 2+ years as a RT with hemodynamic and ICU experience. Most don't mention on their site, so call the school and see what they think. I know 2 in Texas do.
theVaway
54 Posts
Just a quick note the VA I work at is begging for RRTs. They have to have travelers for a year at a time. Not bad environment not bad pay around $25 start in LCOL area. We have I believe 3 openings. Check USAJOBS.gov