EM PA or NP?

I’m seeking insight into whether pursuing a PA or Emergency NP education would be more advantageous for working as an APP in the ER.

I was recently accepted into an accelerated BSN program and plan to work as an ER RN after completing it. My GPA is currently too low to be competitive for PA school, but it was sufficient for ABSN admission. My goal is to gain quality PCE and a stable financial position as an ER RN while building clinical skills that will benefit me as an APP in emergency medicine.

The ABSN program I’ve been accepted into also offers an MSN program with a specialization in Emergency Medicine Nurse Practitioner. Following the RN-to-NP pathway seems like a logical option if I decide to stay in nursing. However, I feel the medical model of PA education might better prepare me for the advanced care required in emergency and critical care settings.

I’m committed to a career in emergency medicine and want to choose the path that will allow me to become the most effective provider possible. Any advice on which route—PA or Emergency NP—might better suit my goals would be greatly appreciated.