How I Went From Paramedic to Flight Nurse to CRNA
>>Listen to “The Making of a Nurse Anesthetist: My Path from Paramedic to CRNA (With Everett Moss II, DNP, CRNA, EMT-P)”
Success is often seen as a straightforward path from point A to point B, but as Everett Moss II shared in a recent episode of Nurse Converse, the reality is much more complex. His journey to becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) illustrates that success doesn’t follow a set path, and each step—whether forward or sideways—offers valuable lessons.
Everett believes that success looks different for everyone and emphasizes the importance of focusing on your own journey instead of comparing yourself to others. This mindset helped him overcome various challenges in his career.
Early Influences and EMT Beginnings
Inspired by his father, a firefighter and EMT, Everett was drawn to emergency services early on. His experience as an EMT laid the foundation for his healthcare career, sparking a passion for helping others in critical situations.
After becoming an EMT, he pursued paramedic training, a key step that deepened his expertise. As a flight paramedic, he learned how to operate under intense pressure and quickly earn patients’ trust—skills that later proved invaluable as a CRNA.
Transition to Nursing and the ER
Everett transitioned to nursing through a paramedic-to-RN bridge program. Initially, he didn’t fully commit, which led him to the emergency room. His background as a paramedic made the ER a natural fit, where he honed his ability to make quick decisions and handle unpredictable situations.
He also gained experience in nursing administration, which broadened Everett’s perspective on healthcare systems and resource management. Later, working in the ICU refined his clinical skills and prepared him for CRNA school. He found that understanding patient management in critical care was crucial to his success in anesthesia practice.
Everett’s path to becoming a CRNA shows just how important resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning are in healthcare. His wide-ranging experience in emergency services, nursing, and administration has shaped him into a well-rounded CRNA. For anyone on a similar path, his story is a great reminder that success isn’t a straight line—it’s about the lessons and growth along the way.
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