Is the job market better for paramedics then for nurses?

Published

I have to decide in the next week or two what classes to sign up for - LPN or Paramedic. Both of those degrees, in Florida at least, mean that I can then take an online Bridge program to RN if I choose to. Both programs will take me about the same amount of time to complete, and will cost me about the same.

So I'm wondering - with all the gloom and doom talk I'm seeing about new nurse grads having no luck getting hired - is it easier to get hired these days as a paramedic?

Good point - I don't want to repeat a lot of classes if I can avoid it. One of my goals is graduating as soon as possible so I can get out there and start working.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER OR LTC Code Blue Trauma Dog.
With an RN, I'd want to be an ER nurse. I thrive on that adrenaline, on rushing in an being able to help when there's an emergency.

Remaining focused and having the ability to prioritize, re prioritize, assess and constantly reassess the situation is key when working in the ER. :)

Remember this phrase...

"Take your own pulse, before taking your patient's pulse." before rushing in to help in any situation.

My Best.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I think one thing you should consider is that LPNs arent generally hired in the ER. If you are trying to get in there faster then go for the paramedic. If you have the time to do the RN your pay will be better. You should try to get a job as an ER tech so you have some experience and this could help you get a job once you graduate.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I know that places where LPNs can get hired are a lot more limited than places where RNs can get hired - the main reason I'm interested in an LPN degree is because I could get one quickly and then work as an LPN while I took the LPN to RN bridge course.

I hadn't heard of an ER tech. What kind of qualifcations/training do they need?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER.

In my ER techs need a HS diploma or GED. Sometimes they are CNA's or enrolled in nursing school, but not always. I would apply for an ER tech job if you want to do ER. I love my techs!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Certainly worth a try! I'll check with my local hospitals to see what the job requirements are.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Which did you end up choosing? I'm in the same boat now trying to decide RN or Paramedic

Up Vote Up Vote ×

No, because the same 3 paramedics have ALL THE JOBS. Lol. DH is a paramedic and usually has 3-4 jobs at a time and most medics we know do the same.

But seriously, it's challenging too when you're starting out. When he finished paramedic school he was able to get a job and get command at the place he was currently working at as an EMT and was able to move from that transport company to a 911 company after that, and after a few months there started collecting per diem jobs based on that experience. BUT many of his classmates struggled to find that first job as a medic.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion