Working part time as CNA while in school for RN?

[tfleuter, BSN, RN]

I'm just full of questions tonight

So, I'm trying to find a way to gain hospital experience while I am in nursing school so when I graduate I can have some experience behind me while searching for a job. The problem is I am a mother of two young boys (4 yrs and 7 week old) so working while I am actually taking classes would be very difficult and costly with daycare fees.

I'm tinkering with the idea of getting my CNA lisence so I can work during the summers while I'm not in class. I know there is a place in SLC that offers a two week course for the certification which I can definately do. My question is this: Are there any clinics or hosptials that hire temp CNA's for just the summer? Also, for those in the workforce now, do new RN graduates with CNA experience have an edge over those w/out any prior hosptial experience? Can I expect a higher pay increase? I'm trying to figure out if the extra work is worth it, or if I shouldn't worry about it.

[jeaneous]

Are there any clinics or hosptials that hire temp CNA's for just the summer?

If you don't tell them that.

Also, for those in the workforce now, do new RN graduates with CNA experience have an edge over those w/out any prior hosptial experience?

An edge in hiring? No. An edge in experience? Yes.

Can I expect a higher pay increase?

:lol2:. . . . . .No, sadly.

Working as a CNA is optional. The roles are quite different. I did and I'm glad I did just to be in the environment of a nurse if nothing else. Helps to put that you are a CNA on a nursing school app, though. Also, you'll really appreciate your CNA's once you've been one:bowingpur

[tfleuter, BSN, RN]

Thank you for responding! I would definately love some experience in a hosptial setting before I finish NS, so CNA seemed like the best way to do it. I've also found out that some programs/hospitals allow student externships during the summer, which would seem to fit my needs perfectly!

[ShineyNickelRN]

Im glad you asked this question. I was curious too. My school NOW requires that you have your CNA prior to entering the nursing program. So If I were you just do it anyways. It is worth it in my opinion.