master's needed? Recommended?

EastCoast · Oct 28, 2003

If i were you i would focus on getting an EMT-c or paramedic if you really want to get into flight nursing. This is a prerequisite in the east for many flight nurses. It might be different in the west where there are more rural areas and probably a greater need.

My best piece of advise is forget more academic experience for now...focus on emergency nursing / critical care and gaining solid nursing experience. I think a company would rather have a flight nurse that can intubate versus a fight nurse who can elaborate on mid range nursing theory.

CraigB-RN, MSN, RN · Nov 2, 2003

Although the academics will help, experience will get you farther. I'd suggest that you get an ICU job and work towards your CCRN. (I'm partial to a SICU/Trauma unit myself). I'm not sure that getting your EMT-Paramedic will help you much right now.

Check out http://www.flightweb.com for the job postings. That will give you an idea on what services are looking for.

SickleMoon · Nov 2, 2003

Hi Cologirl and welcome aboard!

None of the flight programs I've been with or around give any weight to a Masters degree. I agree with the previous posters--experience is where it's at. The very best flight nurses I've seen and worked with were paramedics once, and 3 of us still are. I'd advise critical care or ER experience, or both, *plus* EMT--get your paramedic certification and licensure if you can (it's not as easy as some nurses think! ). Also, field experience as a medic or EMT is something my current program really places a premium on. Scene work is worlds apart from in-hospital stuff.

Go for it! The right attitude and a good head on your shoulders will get you a long way in flight nursing. Add some good experience and training and you've got it made! Speaking from experience here myself...

Best of luck to you!

COLOGIRL · Nov 2, 2003

thanks to everyone for your input...any further info would also be appreciated. Good Day!

EastCoast · Nov 3, 2003

Also, as an FYI....

Creighton University in Omaha Nebraska (IS this where this school is? I think so). Anyway, they offer a course RN to EMT and RN to paramedic. The course is Cheap cheap. However, you must 'ride' with some EMT to obtain clinical hours. It is intense course over 1 week. I'd encourage you to call and find out details b/c as i've said, around hear paramedic is a more important credential than a masters.

Good Luck.

TraumaNurse · Nov 3, 2003

I agree. If you are definitely interested in becoming a flight nurse than don't bother with going on for your masters yet. To get into flight nursing you have to be experienced and well certified. Get into a high level ER or Trauma/SICU and get as many certs as possible and even an instructor. Get your CCRN. Getting your EMT or EMT-P would give you an edge, and as has been posted, it is a requirement in some states. I would recommend working in a hospital that has a flight program so you can get to know the crew and get your foot in the door. Many programs hire internally first before looking outside.

Flight nursing was the best job I ever had. That is why it is so hard to get into, no one wants to give it up, unless your like me and are going to CRNA school. Good luck.