This has always been one of my favorite topics. EMS vs Nursing. My perception is that Paramedics do outrank LPNs in the medical profession, because they have more education than LPNs in most places for example, Louisiana LPN training programs are 14 months and Paramedic programs are 24-27 months. And Paramedics perform more higher liability emergency medical tasks than I have ever seen an LPN perform. Paramedics also earn a higher salary than LPNs do here. It seems to me like EMTs and LPNs are about on the same level and Paramedics and Associate Degree RNs are about on the same level. It's been said too that EMT-Basics and CNAs are on the same level, but I don't see how that holds true either. EMT-Bs from what I understand perform more complex medical tasks such as using defribilators, appyling splints, dressing wounds, assisting with IVs, administering Oxygen Therapy, Inhalers, epinephrine, nitroglycerin, and assesing patients, where CNAs could never dream of performing these tasks??? Anyone else want to give input on EMS vs Nursing?
In my opinnion, Paramedics are not paid nearly enough of what they should be. I think it's a crying shame that in some communities- paramedics are not paid at all, strickly volunteers. I hope these communities are fewer and fewer.
Really don't see the necessity to compare apples and oranges, as another poster aptly categorized this. The only people that should be concerned would be those who are both EMT's and LPN's. It would make a difference to them when they are looking for employment. Otherwise, two different jobs.
Like others have said, you are trying to compare apples and oranges. Both are health care professionals, both have important jobs, and not one is better than the other.
Paramedics work in the ED at my hospital and I hold the greatest respect for them. There are two that work the night shift and I find them to be great at patient care and if I ever need an EJ I know who to call!!
This has always been one of my favorite topics. EMS vs Nursing. My perception is that Paramedics do outrank LPNs in the medical profession, because they have more education than LPNs in most places for example, Louisiana LPN training programs are 14 months and Paramedic programs are 24-27 months. And Paramedics perform more higher liability emergency medical tasks than I have ever seen an LPN perform. Paramedics also earn a higher salary than LPNs do here. It seems to me like EMTs and LPNs are about on the same level and Paramedics and Associate Degree RNs are about on the same level. Its been said too that EMT-Basics and CNAs are on the same level, but i dont see how that holds true either. EMT-Bs from what I understand perform more complex medical tasks such as using defribilators, appyling splints, dressing wounds, assisting with IVs, administering Oxygen Therapy, Inhalers, epinephrine, nitroglycerin, and assesing patients, where CNAs could never dream of performing these tasks??? Anyone else want to give input on EMS vs Nursing?
First of all, ANYTHING with "vs" in it invites drawing battle lines. What professional does this? Also, why are you comparing EMT-P's to ADN's? A nurse is a nurse, regardless of the degree earned, so says NCLEX.
EMT's (either basic, intermediate or paramedic) have the ability to give certain medications in the field without orders or a MAR ie: nitro, O2, glucagon, epi, ASA, etc. ANY nurse needs orders from an MD/NP to give these medications. You threw CNA's in at the end of your post, of course, they aren't allowed to do any of these things.
One is certified the other is licensed that is the difference. One has more work options then the other because of their status. Each has its pluses and misses on what they can and can't do. As others have stated work as a team. When in the field where there is a RN and Paramedic the RN is in charge due to the fact the RN has the license, but this does not mean they are not equal in terms of taking care of the patient.
This isnt the Army or the Marines, its healthcare. there is no rank when discussing lpn's and medics. as someone already said- apples/ oranges. nobody ever really pulls rank in heathcare facilities except nsg supervisors/ managers and doctors. the rest of us are all foot soldiers.
First of all, ANYTHING with "vs" in it invites drawing battle lines. What professional does this? Also, why are you comparing EMT-P's to ADN's? A nurse is a nurse, regardless of the degree earned, so says NCLEX.
EMT's (either basic, intermediate or paramedic) have the ability to give certain medications in the field without orders or a MAR ie: nitro, O2, glucagon, epi, ASA, etc. ANY nurse needs orders from an MD/NP to give these medications. You threw CNA's in at the end of your post, of course, they aren't allowed to do any of these things.
As far as EMT's giving medications they give them under standard orders. Nurse can give medications under standard orders also.
This has always been one of my favorite topics. EMS vs Nursing. My perception is that Paramedics do outrank LPNs in the medical profession, because they have more education than LPNs in most places for example, Louisiana LPN training programs are 14 months and Paramedic programs are 24-27 months. And Paramedics perform more higher liability emergency medical tasks than I have ever seen an LPN perform. Paramedics also earn a higher salary than LPNs do here. It seems to me like EMTs and LPNs are about on the same level and Paramedics and Associate Degree RNs are about on the same level. Its been said too that EMT-Basics and CNAs are on the same level, but i dont see how that holds true either. EMT-Bs from what I understand perform more complex medical tasks such as using defribilators, appyling splints, dressing wounds, assisting with IVs, administering Oxygen Therapy, Inhalers, epinephrine, nitroglycerin, and assesing patients, where CNAs could never dream of performing these tasks??? Anyone else want to give input on EMS vs Nursing?
I think the most important question that has been overlooked is..... Who cares? I'm sure if someone was in need of help and a LPN just so happened to be there the person wouldn't say "Hold on just a minute, I know my leg is detached from my body but I feel paramedics outrank you. Your 15 months of intense education will not be needed here. I will just wait for the paramedics to arrive while I bleed out." Why don't you just leave nursing to those of us who actually care about and respect the profession while you make a chart that "ranks" all the medical professionals.
In my opinnion, Paramedics are not paid nearly enough of what they should be. I think it's a crying shame that in some communities- paramedics are not paid at all, strickly volunteers. I hope these communities are fewer and fewer.
I agree Paramedics do not get paid enough. But if they filled all the areas that were covered by vollies the pay would be even less due to the decrease in call volume.
Sounds like a common IAFF post againist volunteer FF's
kcmylorn
991 Posts
In my opinnion, Paramedics are not paid nearly enough of what they should be. I think it's a crying shame that in some communities- paramedics are not paid at all, strickly volunteers. I hope these communities are fewer and fewer.