Classes and American Red Cross CNA course simultaneously?

[stellakc]

Hi all,

I'm currently in the process of registering for a couple of classes (pre-reqs) w/ labs - bio and chem to be specific. I really want to do well in these classes but I also want to be able to start working and getting experience as soon as I can as it will help when the time comes around for applying to nursing school. I've been on the fence about taking the ARC CNA class simultaneously. I would like to gain more hands on experience, but I'm not sure if this is the best way to do so. The other option I have in mind is to volunteer at a local hospital as that won't require as much time commitment compared to the CNA class.

Any input is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

[SopranoKris, MSN, RN, NP]

I don't know how much the ARC CNA program has changed, but when I took it in the early 90s, there was no way you could do anything else in conjunction with the program. I was at the RC every day from 8 AM to 5 PM for 6 weeks. Granted, that was a long time ago and perhaps they've changed their schedule to something more accommodating :)