Paramedic/RN Bridge Program?

[laina66]

does anyone have any information about a paramedic/RN bridge program in the northeast?
I plan on going into emergency medicince--nursing---but someone had said it would be better to move on from a basic to paramedic and then take a bridge course...
help?!:wacko:

[Ridryder911]

Why? Finally, most of our Paramedic programs have decreased in number from those that want to be a "Paramedic to RN"... As one, I can say it would be similar to saying .. "I want to be a x-ray tech to a respiratory therapist"... Both are two distinct separate professions, with very little in comparison.

It does not make sense. A person spends one year to obtain their Paramedic, and then two years to obtain their "general education" if they did not obtain their Associate as a Paramedic. As well, most require at the least 1-2 years as an active Paramedic before applying to a nursing program. They are comparing Paramedics as LPN's... Most bridge programs only save you one semester, and then most require courses before applying to the programs such as ..Intro to Nursing, Focus on Nursing, etc. to teach and test over basic Nursing skills (care plans, assessment, etc.), so realistically it may not even save anytime at all.

My suggestion is as one that has both multiple degrees and teach at a bridge program, is if you want to be a nurse.. go to nursing school. If you are a Paramedic with an associate degree and you want to pursue a different career for a part time or security, change in profession, then research bridge programs.

I highly suggest one research the profession, and their desires really in detail before deciding upon programs.

Good luck!

R/r 911

[firecoins]

Excelsior college has an online program. Although Rid is right. You should take the full program.

[Ridryder911]

Excelsior college has an online program. Although Rid is right. You should take the full program.

WARNING: Be VERY, VERY, cautious of Excelsior or any on-line! Many states do NOT accept your RN (even if you are licensed in one state). Each state requires you give your school number (where you graduate) and the original state you were licensed in. They then will review your credentials and decide if you will receive a license or not. It is not a sure thing... Yes, there are some states that do NOT accept Excelsior and some on-line graduates... so be very careful and cautious.

As well, many Universities also do NOT accept Excelsior as a science degree (it is a liberal arts university) and may require additional courses for graduation or even acceptance. There are several that enter the program and very few that finish it.

R/r 911

[laina66]

I am planning on becoming a paramedic either way because there is nothing I love more than riding the ambulance...and it will most likely be helpful in the future of persuing a nursing career.
Is it possible to do both?

[Ridryder911]

Yes, it is very possible to do both but unfortunately you will find out most do not continue. I am not bragging, but considered to be one of the few that went back to the field full time after nursing. Most drop out of EMS, understandably due to the pay is not even half the salary, working hours is usually twice as long, and truthfully elements of the field (environment-heat, cold, violence, etc) is no longer there.

Sure, I can admit it is fun, but those with families and responsibilities immediately find out, working over time at >$55.00 hr sure beats the $10.00-12.00 an hour in EMS. Again, one can do what they really want (obviously, I did) but most find out it is hard.

Yes, you can go to Paramedic school first if you want.. but why? Go obtain your RN, you will then have the essential basics of A & P, microbiology, chemistry, etc. This will assist you in your studies, and as well usually most focus your clinical time in EMS rather in hospital areas.

I wish you the best of the luck !

R/r 911

[laina66]

I wouldn't ride EMS for the pay...if I can get a few extra bucks...great. But mainly I would do it for the love of doing it. (As would my boyfriend)
We'll see I guess...:blush: