BSN grad...should i get a CNA???

[studentkj]

Hello,

I just graduated May 2011 from a BSN Program. I didn't even take my NCLEX yet. Probably not until September. My question is...should i get a CNA??? Do you guys know if I can just take their test or do I have to do a whole program for that?

I really need money, and nobody wants to hire me as a nursing assistant. They want a CERTIFIED nursing assistant.

Please help!

I'm from the bay area..california.

[Bbo.W]

You have your bachelor's in nursing...so no, you should not be a CNA. As a CNA, I make $9/hour. As a BSN, take your test earlier (if possible) and work as a nurse! If you can't take the test earlier, maybe work as a volunteer at a hospital to get a foot in the door. CNA work is hard, manual labor-it makes your body hurt!

[caliotter3]

You might be able to get your foot in the door as a CNA. If you really want to go this route, I say go for it. I don't know what the rules are in CA, I believe you can take the CNA test with your BSN education. You will have to check on that. But, one thing, I would not waste any opportunity to further your RN career. You should schedule a CNA job on the weekend and leave two days during the week free for job hunting and interviews. Best of luck to you. Trying to get a job in the Bay area is difficult for all.