on becoming an RN

[just_a_girl443]

im a high school senior and my top career interest is in nursing. Im very confused however on the process of becoming an RN. I live in the city of Pomona in Los Angeles county and i am considering Loma Linda and Everest (Bryman) for my school choices. I need alot of information though. I would like to know what my 1st step out of high school should be. Im not sure if i have to become a CNA first of or if I can go directly into an RN program. Im unsure of what a B.A and a B.S. means and which is better. If any one has information on the fastest route to becoming an RN i would very much appreciate it. I am basicaly lost in all this so if someone could provide me with detailed infomormation on the steps i need to take to become an RN it would help me a great deal. thank you

[ChristineN, BSN, RN]

No, you don't have to be a CNA first. It can help you get used to pt care and comfortable in the medical environment. A BA is a Bachelor of Arts, BS is a Bachelor of Science. If you went to a 4 year (Bachelor) program for your RN you would graduate with a BS. There are also 2-3 year Associates (often community college or diploma) programs available, which in theory are faster, but many schools have waiting lists. Depending on if there are waiting lists in your area or not will depend on what is the "fastest" choice.