CNA course

[MsNancy]

Hello all,

I am having a bit of a dilemma in deciding what to do. I use to be a CNA for over 9 years, I let my CNA certificate go, now I am back on track with my nursing career. I got approved to challenge the test to get my exam. I don't feel that I have the technical part down for the skills, since it has been over 10 years since I worked as a CNA. I got accepted in the Pharmacy Technician Program, omg they want to send me clear cross the map to work for free. It isn't like nursing where you just learn the clinical skills and that is it. I decided to finish this semester up with Pharmacy tech and go for my CNA liscense. I am the only person in my household, and need something a little more solid. Should I take the CNA course through the community college, or the Red Cross program? I can afford to pay the fee for the Red Cross. I am already working as a private caregiver, and through In Home Support , but would like to eventually get into the hospital field. Thanks in advance for your opinions. I don't really like those home care jobs. I feel more like a maid than a nurse.

Nancy

[Missingyou, CNA]

I did my training through the Red Cross. You will probably finish more quickly with them.

If you've been approved to challenge the test, why not just brush up on your skills by reviewing guidelines for your state? You may even be able to just purchase the book from the Red Cross without taking the class so you can review.

~It really is like riding a bike. You don't forget the skills. You may be a little rusty, but it will come back to you once you take another look at it...especially since you've been working private duty.

Keep in mind that some states will reimburse you for the cost of the class once you begin working in LTC or a hospital. The Red Cross in your area will be able to tell you if this is an option in your state.

[MsNancy]

thanks for your comment. I know , I really should just challenge it, but I signed up, for the classes at the Junior College here in CA. I have heard that you don't forget your skills. I was thinking more on the technical stuff that they look for in the skills testing. I guess 3 months isn't all that bad. Hoping to find LTC, or a good hospital, maybe during the clinical training. I know I want to get something a little stable, than this care at home stuff. Now, it is time to do all the paperwork, TB test, and CPR. I am in my 40's. It will at least be a good refresher for the exam. I have too much anxiety to try and challenge it.

[peachescna]

Sometimes is just fine to keep your license with just working sometimes as PRN /PD once in a while. Just to don't loose it. I do the same with the teaching license . I decided to work in the healthcare rather then prek assistant teacher. But I'll keep my license since we never know.

I just read your situation and came to my mind. good luck