[GaMBA]

Hi,

I'm new to this forum and I'm thinking about pursuing a nursing career. Before investing the time, energy and money it would take to go to a BSN (or ADN) program I would like to work in the healthcare setting to see if it's something I'd enjoy. I have no experience in the healthcare field. In looking at my options, I came across PCA/PCT programs where you get a certificate that includes CNA training in as little as a couple of months. It's very low cost too. This sounds like a good way to quickly (and economically) get a foot in the nursing door and be able to earn a little income as well while learning. I'd like to get a professional opinion from all the LPNs and RNs out there, does this sound like a good idea? Also, if I do go to such a program and find work as a PCT, is it likely my employer would pay for me to go to nursing school to get my BSN?

So far the only alternative I've come up with is to start on nursing school prereqs and get a volunteer position in a hospital in the meantime. I wouldn't get to do any nurse-related activities but I would at least get to "work" in the healthcare setting and see how everything works. Does this sound like a good alternative? Better/worse than the first???

I appreciate everyone's comments and advice!!

[GaMBA]

...bump...

Has anyone taken this route to get into the nursing field???

[Tweety]

Hi. The forum you posted in is mainly for ADN vs. BSN debates. I moved your post to the Career advice forum.

Option A sounds like a great option for you and one that I would recommend you explore. Then you can take your pre-reqs, while working in the health care field. Then after you've worked there a while you can take advantage of tuition reimbursement.

Many, too many for me to count, of the PCT's/CNA's I've worked with have gone on to get nursing degrees.

Usually there's a commitment for getting tuition reimbursement, so you have to like the facility you work for. Most often employers will work around students work schedules. So when you're looking for a job express the desire to find an employer who is supportive of students.

[GaMBA]

Thank you Tweety. I called a local hospital today and found out they have a CNA training program that begins in June and is 17 weeks long. You get paid (pocket change, lol) during the program to work in a nursing home and when you graduate you have no obligations to the hospital. I plan to apply when the application period opens up in May.

Alternatively, I've considered applying to an LPN program. I figure since it'll take me about a year to do nursing school prereqs and apps anyway I might as well get a certification during that time period if I can. What are your thoughts on this?

[Tweety]

Definitely go for the CNA position.

Getting your LPN might be a distraction, unless you need the income. RNs enjoy far better salaries and job opportunities, that my first instinct is to advise to keep plugging away at the pre-reqs now, while honing your hands-on skills as a CNA.

If you really need to work ASAP then getting your LPN first is an excellent idea. What happens sometimes is that people burn out from nursing school and NCLEX-PN that they take "just a little time off" and get off track working full-time and making money that they get years behind their original goal.

Sounds like you have a good head on your shoulders and are exploring your options, and you'll eventually do what's best for you and your own personal situation.

Please feel free to keep asking questions.