EMT to RN: Looking to Make a Change?

• Although EMTs and RNs both work in the healthcare field, their roles and average salaries differ immensely.
• It is estimated than an EMT stays with their job for about five years before deciding to make a change.
• If you are interested in transitioning from an EMT to RN, you’re in luck! Check out Nursing CE Central’s inside scoop!

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) play a vital role in our healthcare industry. 

They are the first responders who are there to help when a tragedy or emergency strikes. Despite the necessity of their role, the average career expectancy of an EMT is only around five to eight years.

Of course, there are several reasons as to why they may leave, but where do they go?

Many of them decide to make the transition from an EMT to RN!  

Are you an EMT wanting to make a career change?  

Are you thinking of applying to an EMT to RN program?  

We have all the information you need in case you are ready to take the plunge! 

You’re Not Alone

According to Salary.com, the average EMT salary is roughly $36,780, whereas an RN makes about $64,140; this is a significant difference. 

Although it would be reasonable to assume that “Yes, an RN’s salary is higher, but that’s because they work more than EMTs, right?” Not quite. 

Of course, both are healthcare professionals, so the hours will vary depending on patient volume and need, but EMTs and RNs work relatively similar schedules. 

For example, Firefighter Insider outlines that on average, an EMT will work between 36 and 48 hours per week, which lines up with the average work week for most RNs. 

With these factors in mind, it is no wonder that the transition from an EMT to RN is so prevalent in the healthcare industry.

When comparing EMTs to the nursing profession, the field provides higher salaries, more job diversity, and many advancement opportunities.  

On top of this, nursing professions allow you the chance to have more one-on-one time with your patients, as well as being involved in their plan of care.  

Of course, this is not the case for EMTs, as they are actively treating symptoms while en route to a hospital or nearby healthcare facility.

How Do I Get There?

Below are just a few of the steps you will have to take in order to make that EMT to RN transition! 

1. Find a bridge program. I would recommend checking out the Achieve EMT to RN program!  
2. Begin your coursework, complete clinical rotations and labs. 
3. Prepare for and take the NCLEX-RN Examination. 
4. Start your nursing career! 

Most nursing school curriculum builds nursing theory knowledge, and clinical competencies, so your experience as an EMT may give you a one-up during clinical rotations where the stress levels may be high among your peers.  

 You already have experience treating different types of patients in different scenarios; therefore, you will feel totally at ease managing your patients. 

If you think making the transition from an EMT to RN sounds like something you want to pursue, do your research on the different nursing programs or bridge programs near you.

Depending on your level of education prior to beginning your program, you may be eligible for accelerated programs that will save you time and money as you head into your new career as an RN! 

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