CNA to LPN

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I live in NW Arkansas. I am starting CNA classes tomorrow. From what I hear I should have just started my LPN classes but I need the extra money to help me raise my son. Should I stick on the going from CNA to LPN to RN path I'm on or should I skip the CNA? A friend of mine said that CNA's get some experience. I am stuck at a fast food job until I get certified. My son is 6 months old btw and I just found out with my limited income that I am getting a goverment assisted place of my own. I dont want to depend on the government forever. I'm just trying to find out the best way to go about getting my nursing degrees. Does anyone have any idea what CNA's pay rate is starting out in NWA.

Thanks,

Ash

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I live in NW Arkansas. I am starting CNA classes tomorrow. From what I hear I should have just started my LPN classes but I need the extra money to help me raise my son. Should I stick on the going from CNA to LPN to RN path I'm on or should I skip the CNA? A friend of mine said that CNA's get some experience. I am stuck at a fast food job until I get certified. My son is 6 months old btw and I just found out with my limited income that I am getting a goverment assisted place of my own. I dont want to depend on the government forever. I'm just trying to find out the best way to go about getting my nursing degrees. Does anyone have any idea what CNA's pay rate is starting out in NWA.

Thanks,

Ash

... Around here, having your CNA license is needed for at least most LPN programs, so you'd be right on track...

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Specializes in CVICU.

All the schools here require you to be a CNA before doing anything else.

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.
I live in NW Arkansas. I am starting CNA classes tomorrow. From what I hear I should have just started my LPN classes but I need the extra money to help me raise my son. Should I stick on the going from CNA to LPN to RN path I'm on or should I skip the CNA? A friend of mine said that CNA's get some experience. I am stuck at a fast food job until I get certified. My son is 6 months old btw and I just found out with my limited income that I am getting a goverment assisted place of my own. I dont want to depend on the government forever. I'm just trying to find out the best way to go about getting my nursing degrees. Does anyone have any idea what CNA's pay rate is starting out in NWA.

Thanks,

Ash

Each state as well as each school has their own requirements, but I would probably continue with the CNA. You stated that you do need the extra money to raise your son, and the experience may be good for you. This way, when you start the LPN program, fear of patient interaction will not be a problem to you. You'd sail through the ADLs with flying colors. I don't know the rate of pay in your area, but I do believe you can't lose by completing the CNA course. If your LPN program requires it, then, this is one less headache to battle with.

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

Texas does not require CNA prior to LVN, but I think there are several good reasons to go that route. You will learn protocols and all sorts of tasks. You will learn where you do and do not want to work as a nurse. And they will have a trusted employee to promote. Also, your job may offer tuition reimbursement.

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