PHRN Cert--how to go about it?

[CYMBALS]

I've been an EMT for over 4 1/2 years, and an RN for 2 months (just graduated nursing school in May). I'm currently working on a telemetry unit, but EMS is my heart. I work as an EMT on my days off. Everyone's encouraging me to get my PHRN cert. I've been told that I can just take the state written exam, but I wouldn't want to work as an ALS provider without the proper training first. For other PHRN's out there, how did you achieve your cert and prepare yourself to work in the field? Any suggestions or advice is most welcome.

Thank you!

[Shamira Aizza]

You need to contact your Regional EMS Council; that would be the agency that manages the Con-Ed you are required to obtain to maintain your EMT certification. Contact them and they should be able to assist you in becoming a PHRN.

I don't know where you live, but some Comm. Colleges offer PHRN training (i.e. Butler County Comm. College or Harrisburg Area Comm. College...and others). Some independent instructors will also offer the training as well. I agree that simply taking the test and entering the field as a PHRN is dangerous; prehospital ALS care is a demanding activity.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

In IL - it is individually accredited - there are less than 6 in the entire state! I had several years as a staff nurse in a level one trauma center and then I did some ride along time and voila - I was off and running! I run with a volunteer EMS/fire dept and have 7 years experience doing that plus 10 years in a level one trauma center.

[JoshuaAdamsRN]

Hey, I'm interested in doing the same thing but it seems crazy the way the state has you go about it. First an EMT practical, and then the NREMT-P written exam and boom, you're certified. Did you find any courses that allow you develop the ALS skills we don't do as nurses but are expected of PHRN? I'm half-tempted to enroll in an upcoming paramedic class which seems kind of silly as a nurse, but if it's what I have to do, I'll do it.