CMA vs CNA

Nursing Students CNA/MA

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Here in Wilmington, NC where I live it appears that there 2 routes to get started as an entry level heathcare worker.

1. Community college - CNA program (also has PN and ADN programs)

2. Private tech-school - CMA program

In this bewildering field of acronymns, can someone tell me the difference between a CMA and a CNA?

Thanks -

Thomas

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Specializes in HH, Med/surg- liver & kidney transplant, ortho, ++.

CMA can mean 2 things. Certified Medication Aid and Certified Medical Assistant.

Certified Medical Assistant has more training than a CNA. You can work in drs offices, clinics, and some hospitals.

I worked as a medical assistant (CMA) in pediatrics mostly, did some family medicine.

My duties included injections (immunizations, antibiotics, flu), strep swabs, urine dips, finger sticks for glucose testing and CBCs.

I loved working as a medical assistant. It was great. A lot of colleges now want you to be a CNA before you start the program.

Most CNAs work in nursing homes, assisted living, or hospitals.

They both have their advantages and disadvantages. CMA takes longer than CNA. If you go to a tech/vocational school most community colleges and universities don't take the credits from those schools. I reccommend, if you go the CMA route, to take the classes at a community college if possible. That way you can work as a CMA and continue going to school to get your RN and you wont have to start from scratch.

I went the vocational school route. Kinda kicking myself in the butt for it. But then again, I finally figured out that nursing is the right route for me.

If you have any more questions you can private message me. Good luck in your decision. Either way you go you will get great experience.

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