Medic to RN bridge programs

[traumagirl83]

Hi!

My name is Robin, I'm a paramedic and have worked in EMS for about eight years now and am now looking for a bridge program to RN. I live in Washington but am willing to move anywhere in the US for a good program. I've done a lot of research online but am hoping to get some actual suggestions from fellow EMSers . I'd really appreciate any suggestions!

Thanks guys! Stay safe out there!

- Robin

[Just Plain Ruff]

I have not heard much good about the online programs so please try to stick with the in class RN programs.

More people on here will have better info than I.

But I would think you would really be better going through the traditional RN programs than the paramedic to rn. Not to try to shut you down, but in my opinion most paramedic programs today do not prepare you for the RN level classes unless you have gone through a traditional degree program.

Just my opinion.

Let me see if where I'm located at has a good type of program.

[paramedicmike]

Welcome, Robin.

I'm of a similar opinion that a non-bridge program would be better. If you already have a bachelor's degree there are several programs out there that offer a one year BSN option where you spend 11-13 months, depending on your program, completing the nursing requirements. At the end you're awarded a BSN and are eligible to sit for NCLEX.

I know a few people who've done this type of program. From their reports it is pretty intense. However, it is doable.

Searching for "BS to BSN" or "accelerated second degree BSN" will give you a bunch of information about programs out there.

[scubanurse]

Having been both a medic and an RN, I encourage you to look at a BSN program. Like Mike said there are accelerated programs out there for those who already have a BS. There are even BSN programs designed for those already working in health care. EMS and nursing are two very different fields, they have some similarities, but in the end they are really different.

[iStater]

The accelerated BSN programs are pricey. Some may start at $45,000. By accelerated, it means they will cover the same material in a lot less time. You will not be able to hold a job during that time so you will need financial support from someone or take out more loans.

You will need all prerequisites done prior to applying and they must be current or done within the past 5 - 7 years. If you go out of state or even here in WA you will need your transcripts reviewed at some college like where you got the Paramedic program. They are usually hooked into a national database which will tell you if and how many credits transfer.

The only entry level online program which is accredited is Excelsior. But, WA will only allow experienced LPNs to test. You can get licensure be endorsement after being licensed in another state and documented proof of hours. A few states will not take the Excelsior at all.

The BSN is the best route. You will see BSN preferred in almost every ad. There is no nursing shortage and there are many unemployed or underemployed RNs. Some of the bridge programs were designed in the 1980s to encourage other health professionals, including Paramedics, to cross over when there was a huge shortage. Now you will find huge waiting lists before and after nursing school.