BSN Student, should i get my CNA?

[mariaferna]

I'm a second semester BSN nursing student, and i really would like to start getting some experience as soon as possible. I was wondering if it would be recommended for me to get my CNA over the summer so that i can begin working. I am unsure if i should do this however because i know that after a certain point Nursing students are able to sit for the CNA exam without having taken the course. Is it still worth it to take the CNA course now?

[Philly R.N.]

Hi,

If you are in your second semester in nursing school, then once you begin your clinical rotations, try to apply for an externship instead. You will gain more experience besides basic care and it will give you better insight on what department you see yourself working in the few years

[BertG77]

By end of second semester you will totally know enough to take the CNA boards and do well. You could try applying for externships as well as be gaining experience as a CNA. There seems to always be a demand for CNA's and you could probably dictate your own hours and availability. Also, any experience is good. I'm a CNA and I'm in a BSN program. Its up to you to decide what works for you.

[IBaNurse]

I too an a BSN second degree nursing student, with my CNA license. I highly think you should get your CNA license because it provides you with hands on experience and more independence. Also, being a nursing student does not mean that you will pass the practical portion of the CNA licensing exam.

[lissy1214, BSN, RN]

Hey :)

It's great that you are looking to get some valuable experience early-on in nursing school ! Kudos.

I don't think it's necessarily worth it to become licensed as a CNA.

In most states, you do not have to have a license to practice as a nursing assistant or patient care technician/clinical care technician. I have worked as a patient care technician for the past year and a half without having any professional license.

Most hospitals open up CNA type positions to both licensed CNAs and to nursing students. Nursing students, after having completed at least one clinical rotation, are considered to be qualified for CNA/PCT/CCT positions.

That being said, I don't think you can feasibly work as a CNA prior to completing at least one clinical rotation.

But to get yourself some experience and something to include on your resume, I think it would be in your best interest to start volunteering at a hospital as soon as possible.

That way, when you do go to apply for CNA/PCT/CCT positions after you've completed your first clinical, you'll already have had some hospital experience.

And at that point, getting a CNA/PCT/CCT job will make you a stronger applicant for an externship program. Externship programs are held during the summer between your junior and senior year.

Bottom line, I don't think it's worth it to take the CNA course because you ultimately don't need that license to practice as a CNA.