Nursing education path - advice

[health_mo_cb]

Question for all of the nurses out here as I'm thinking about the future and weighing some options. For context I'm in the Kansas city area

Currently in paramedic school. Eventually I would like to also become certified as an RN as well so that I may work in the ED as well (for $$ and to expand the scope of what I see and can do)

There are some bridge programs for medics to get their RN certification, which are about a year and relatively inexpensive, which is awesome. I've heard from some though that many hospitals are looking to only hire BSNs. The accelerated BSN programs though are just incredibly expensive (I'm talking > 30k for accelerated BSN vs maybe 3k for a bridge program)

I'm curious how easy or difficult it would be to get hired PRN in the ED with an RN, no BSN. Keeping in mind that I'll have had a couple years of medic experience. Also, I do have my bachelor's in Health Information Management, so ... not a clinical degree but at least a lot of knowledge on how the healthcare system works. Also have 8+ years with an EHR company... I guess that could help me or hurt me depending on how you look at it

[Devon Rex, ADN, BSN]

Hello there!

Experience counts towards a decision of hiring new personnel. If you want to work in the ED, get your ASN, pass your NCLEX-RN, and start applying. As a paramedic with experience you already have a STRONG foundation on which you can build upon to becoming a Registered Nurse... let alone a critical care nurse. Build professional relationships while you are an EMT in the area hospitals you serve.

The BSN is not as clinical as the ASN is. So I would worry about the BSN independently from your job prospects. Do not let that (not having the BSN) stop you from applying and displaying what you have to offer (i.e. EMT knowledge/experience). The EMTs have the kind of medical knowledge a BSN does not give you... so move forward.

The BSN will open up more doors for you, but that doesn't mean it's impossible to get an ED job. There are BSN programs for those who already have a bachelor's degree in other areas... so that will be worth looking into to. Don't get discouraged from seeking your dream job!

Cheers!!! :)