CNA in ER

[SpecificNorthWest]

Hello all,

I'm presently working on getting into an RN program. I'm taking some of the prerequisite courses now, keeping my GPA up, and volunteering at a local ER. I would, however, like to increase my range of expiences in the ER.

There is a CNA program at the school where I am taking my prereq. courses. It takes about three months to complete.

My question is, is it worth it to do this? Money is not a factor as it is not that expensive. My thought was working as a CNA would be more valuable then volunteering. I have also considered EMT training, but I believe this would take more time, which would be difficult with my present courseload.

Any ideas?

[LPN1974, LPN]

Do they have CNA's working in the ER? They don't at the local hospital in my town.

Seems like the EMT training would benefit you more.

[ERNurse752, RN]

Check with your local hospitals. Hospitals in my area don't really use CNAs in the ER, but do use EMTs. Also, our hospital has Patient Support Partners, which are similar to CNAs/techs. The hospital has their own training class for PSPs when they are hired. Good luck with the job and school!

[HAngel]

Hello all,

I'm presently working on getting into an RN program. I'm taking some of the prerequisite courses now, keeping my GPA up, and volunteering at a local ER. I would, however, like to increase my range of expiences in the ER.

There is a CNA program at the school where I am taking my prereq. courses. It takes about three months to complete.

My question is, is it worth it to do this? Money is not a factor as it is not that expensive. My thought was working as a CNA would be more valuable then volunteering. I have also considered EMT training, but I believe this would take more time, which would be difficult with my present courseload.

Any ideas?

I've been a CNA for over 6 years now (and have 1 year left to graduate with my RN BSN). I have worked in two different years for a combined time of 3 years. The experience is well worth the investment. See what your hospital accepts- ours only takes CNA's and student nurse techs (no EMT's in the tech role) but another I have worked in did accept EMT's.

We get to do EKG's, draw blood, insert urinary caths (uncomplicated), assist with codes, transport patients/ specimens, assist with procedures, etc.. We get to do so many things, it really has helped me learn how to organize my time and how to be more assertive (as the ER clientele can sometimes need instruction or requests beyond "Mr. so-and-so, please don't yell the **** word at me again, now." :)

Good luck with all endeavors:)

Hangel