CNA cert. as a pre-req?

[Sandi_NC]

The ADN program I'm considering is revamping their program and will now require CNA certification as a pre-req. They are also no longer using the HOAE (Health Occup. Aptitude Exam) but now using the TEAS.

Has anyone else had to obtain CNA certification before they could apply for their nursing program? The way the current program is set up, at the end of your 1st semester of nursing classes, you could sit for the Nurs. Asst. I and at the end of the 2nd semester, sit for Nurs. Asst. II.

If I pursue this route, it will set me back just a little bit because of having to add another layer (CNA cert.) but I was just curious if this was something wide-spread within other programs out there.

[zoe92]

None of the schools (ADN or BSN) around me require that but I know other people on this site have said their school required it. I think it is great if you have your CNA but don't think it should necessarily be required. Do you have to take CNA courses through the school you are applying to?

[Sandi_NC]

No, you don't have to take the CNA course(s) through them though they offer a Nursing Asst. program that is 2 semesters (Fall = Nurs. Asst. I and Spring= Nurs. Asst. II) That program is covered by financial aid if you qualify for a Pell Grant. The other CNA course(s) are offered through some kind of continuing education program but those are not covered by financial aid. I'm just frustrated that it's one more thing to add to my list! I agree with you in that it would be nice to have, but I don't think it should be a requirement.

[Sandi_NC]

The closest BSN program is not requiring CNA cert. at this time but since the comm. college and the university like to work hand-in-hand, I'm wondering if that might not be changing within their program as well. Ugh!

[AccelCNL, MSN, RN]

The schools over where I live do not require that. I am going for my CNA but that is just because I want to work in the health field while in school.

[Fireman767]

its actually a genius system. Most Physician Assistant Schools require direct medical experience as a CNA, LPN, RN, EMT, MA, etc. That way when the program starts people understand more. there more beneficial to keep the students in good standing and the main reason to lose students then would be financial. It only makes sense to do the same for RN programs, retention levels goes up, students understand the material.

I would say to do it, It can only help you.

[mabear3]

The community colleges that I have looked at in NC have all required the CNA 1 certification. I was a little upset that I had to take it given I am a PT in an inpatient rehab setting. I understand the value for those that don't have any kind of medical background but it was kind of a waste of my time. I wish they would evaluate on a case by case basis if the individual student will be required to take the class. The ones around here aren't cheap either - I spent $550 for a 3 week course and had to buy navy blue scrubs. I also had to take the written exam and skills test which was another $101. Quite costly.

[HeatherMax]

I think it is a GREAT idea!

[ADN2B]

My ADN program required CNA certification as a prerequisite.

[studentbear, CNA]

My community college's ADN program requires it as a pre-req.

[MommaTy]

My college doesn't require you to have it, but you actually have a better chance at getting in if you have one. I've been a CNA since 2004, so I had to get it again because I let it expire. But I took the clinical and writing portion and passed 1st try. But they have 6 to 8 week courses at American Red Cross :) Good luck. I got mine in High School.

[Stella_Blue]

My school did not require us to have it. I have been a CNA for about 4 years before I finally made it into the program. I actually got my CNA while I was in high school during my junior and senior year. What my college did do was if you did have your CNA they awarded you credit for it and I got to skip the first lab that was about 5 weeks, so it worked in my favor. It definitely was not mandatory though!