Will being a CNA increase my chance?

[1Luv_xo]

Is it neccessary to become a CNA before applying for an LPN program? Someone told me I wouldn't get in without being one.. but I already know I wouldn't like being a CNA. I'm more interested in the medical help I could give people rather then the personal hygiene job of a CNA. I want to give IVs, injections, medication, etc. I know helping people shower and whatnot is part of LPN clinicals which I'm OK with, but as a job... I wouldnt enjoy it. Sorry guys, not sure if I'm making any sense!

[runsalot]

Maybe not before. It would not of made a difference in my acceptance personally. But durning school getting on to a floor as a cna or pct is great experience. On my floor the nurses know which techs are students and take the time to teach us. It's great.

[SexyFloridaGirl]

As a CNA I can tell you first hand that if you do not think that "CNA" care is "right for you" that you might be going into the wrong profession/career path. As a CNA and soon to be RN, I have learned SO much by going through the daily routine of this position in a hospital. I work PRN as well as Part-Time for two hospitals and though you may not want to think about menial tasks that CNAs do, you will often find yourself doing them too. Just yesterday I had a man come up to the floor where he was admitted and treated and only 12 months later looked like a completely different human being. When he saw his nurses and CNAs he remembered them by their NAME, not job title or status within the hospital. He started crying when he hugged the one nurse that stayed right by his side the entire time he was admitted. Just seeing things like this makes me KNOW I am in the right profession and career path. I would suggest that you get a position as a PRN CNA, so you just get your feet wet within the field. Also if you are uncomfortable with one of the tasks you are assigned, like say an EA at 6:30 when you leave at 6:45 for the day, get someone to help you. More likely than not you will be trading favors with nurses, CNAs and other secretarial staff and will sometimes need assistance yourself to help get your rounds done at this time. Oh and one last thing, CNAs in my hospital DO NOT round every hour, we usually round every TWO hours, the nurses (on their own - without a tech/CNA) round and do all the necessary duties for that patient at that time. This includes vitals, I&O, BP and temps and accurately chart this as they go to each patient. These are fundamental things all nurses should know, I would really encourage you to try and adjust to the atmosphere and get comfortable for close direct patient contact.