CNA first than RN program?

roser13, ASN, RN · Sep 20, 2016

There is no need to be a CNA prior to nursing school. Some schools advocate for that, others discourage it.

Just go for what you want to eventually do. Don't spend precious loans/$$ on a program that will not advance your academic studies one bit.

allnurses Guide · Sep 20, 2016

There is no need to be a CNA prior to nursing school. Some schools advocate for that, others discourage it.
Just go for what you want to eventually do. Don't spend precious loans/$$ on a program that will not advance your academic studies one bit.

I agree with this. And my mentor, a seasoned and savvy nurse, told me the same thing as well. And I didn't take the class and I did just fine.

You can be a CNA first but you learn all the same information in the first few weeks of nursing school.

It won't make you a better nurse. Your work ethic and compassion and trustworthiness will make you a good nurse. You can have that without being a CNA first.

sallyrnrrt, ADN, RN · Sep 20, 2016

I worked as medical assistant Sr. Year HS, all thru 3.5yrs as biology major, and thru 2 year diploma nursing program, back in the day.....my linical experiences, and 3.5 yr as biology major, made nursing school seem like a breeze.......but that was back in 1972, when I graduated.....ps, I'm still working 44.5 yrs as RN, and six years as RRT......

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Sep 21, 2016

Moved to the CNA forum.

bwimfutureRN · Sep 21, 2016

Yes. That's what I wanted to do but the nursing school is asking for prior medical liscenses and experience. The one I'm attending.

bwimfutureRN · Sep 21, 2016

Wow that's amazing. Rrt how is that career. Which one you like better between rn and rrt?

missourinurse2b, BSN, RN · Sep 22, 2016

I did work as a CNA many years ago and as a CMT as well prior to RN school. I was never a LPN, went straight to RN school and got my BSN. Now I am in school for my MSN, in the FNP program at a local university. I do think the CNA/CMT experience helped but I don't know if being a LPN first would have much difference since many of the LPNs who bridged over into my RN class struggled and a few even failed out.

Laura_G_in_ID · Sep 27, 2016

I just finished my CNA certification because my school gives an extra point in their points system to get into the RN program if you are a CNA. I decided that I wanted some experience in the medical field, and chose to apply for work as a CNA while I'm still in school. I found a flex position, requiring only one shift every two weeks, at a local hospital, in the float pool. It couldn't be more perfect for me while I'm still in school. The hospitals in my area generally hire staff from within as often as possible, so this should help me find a position at a hospital when I finish the RN program.

ZoeFrecn · Oct 10, 2016

I agree with Laura_G, a lot of hospital hire within for their residency positions. Also, I recommend becoming a CNA if your program is very competitive. Many programs prefer applicants with CNA over others. On the other hand, you will be a great nurse even without CNA experience. I know plenty of people who did nursing school without working as a CNA. I'm currently working part time as a CNA while in nursing school and I love it. My floor provides me with a lot of great learning opportunities (I work in the ER), and I get to see the nursing process in action. Good luck!