Working as a CNA while getting BSN.

Ive asked this same question. I've gotten mostly good replies about working as a CNA in school. If you must work it is a good choice, but I've heard its very easy to burn out. I've heard it's also very very hard work which is just added stress on top of your studies. I think certain folks can handle it. It probably just depends on how hard working you really are, and if you can balance your life well. Good way to make connections and get your feet wet for when you graduate. That's the way I look at it!

I think working as a CNA while in nursing school - regardless the level - is an intelligent decision. Holding any job during nursing school - regardless the level - is difficult, so working as an aide is no exception. I do believe with a little blood, sweat and tears, though, that it's possible to be successful.

I work PRN as an aide and I am also in nursing school. I have found the experience to be rewarding and beneficial in my studies. It's nice knowing how to turn a patient properly and change an occupied bed. Leaves more time to focus on the real stressors in our chosen profession.

Hi, I'm new to the game also. Could you tell me how you got your CNA training and license through a local LTC. Did you just visit a TLC and ask if they had a program? I am really interested in doing this while I'm in school, just for the experience. Thanks!

Usually you can apply for a position as an aide after your first semester in nursing school without actually becoming certified. You must remain in your program and upon failure to progress to the next level, you are no longer legally allowed to work as an aide unless you are certified. You should check with the board in your state, however, to ensure you comply with all rules and regulations.

It is definitely do-able, and I STRONGLY encourage it!! I'm a PCT at UPMC working towards my BSN. Currently I've only taken pre-nursing courses, so I haven't started a single clinical, but as far as my previous courses, I was able to work full-time, and still go to school, and I did really well. I don't know what its like to have clinicals while working, but there are most hospitals that offer part-time, or even casual (minimum 8 hours/month) positions. Its great, I love the experience I'm getting, alot of the nurses I work with know that I'm a student, and they show me some things about nursing, so its a great educational experience. Most major hospitals also have tuition reimbursement for full-time and part-time employees so you may want to look into that as well. The best part is that employers who see students working as an aide while in nursing school will definitely have a much greater advantage over those that haven't, plus, if you like the unit you work in, it would be very easy to work there as a nurse when you graduate.

Just adding my . I currently work as a PCA while in nursing school. I am finishing up my last year and will have worked as a PCA for about a year when I graduate. I think the experience is invaluable because you learn the little things that can definitely trip you up as a nurse. (Foley care, specimens, etc.) Plus, you get comfortable with how the floor is run, interaction with docs, etc. You just feel alot more comfortable and confident with what is going on around you. Plus networking is ALWAYS great. So if you can handle it, I say go for it. It can only help with getting a job once you are through! Good luck!

I live near Jacksonville, FL and I know that St. Vincent's & Baptist used to hire nursing students that had finished their first semester to work without their CNA certification.

I work as a CNA at a pedi hospital nights. I'm taking my pre-req's at the moment and hopefully when I can apply into the nursing program I'll be able to do the night or weekend program. I love working with the kids so it's great....