CNA or MA

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I'm about to finish my CNA course so I can get some experience while in nursing school (RN).. but I most DEFINATELY don't want to work with the elderly. I have knee issues and cannot handle the physical strain of lifting and moving dead weight, so I'm considering going ahead and getting my MA. What I'm wondering is if it would be worth it. Do MA's do the same work as CNA. Money isn't an issue, it's more about the physical labor. I'm wanting to work in a Dr.'s office. It'll cost an additional $1500 and will take another 18 weeks (I have to get my phlabotomy and EKG tech first).

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.
I'm about to finish my CNA course so I can get some experience while in nursing school (RN).. but I most DEFINATELY don't want to work with the elderly. I have knee issues and cannot handle the physical strain of lifting and moving dead weight, so I'm considering going ahead and getting my MA. What I'm wondering is if it would be worth it. Do MA's do the same work as CNA. Money isn't an issue, it's more about the physical labor. I'm wanting to work in a Dr.'s office. It'll cost an additional $1500 and will take another 18 weeks (I have to get my phlabotomy and EKG tech first).

Since you are already in nursing school, I would consider the MA. Depending on the course of study, they may teach how to administer medications and other office procedures where a nurse would have to know about. But, let me tell you...nursing may be just as physical as being a CNA. And, it can be more mental with the additional responsibilities. But, with nursing school being as difficult as it is, do you think that you would have time to include a second course of study?

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Specializes in geriatrics.

where are you going to school the ma program in nc is 1 year for diploma and 2 years for associate degree it is less stressful you can do more administrative work or you can do clinical work also

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Specializes in Ante-Intra-Postpartum, Post Gyne.

First of all, you are going to work with elderly as a nurse no matter what. When the elderly get sick they go to the hospital. HOWEVER, you will not ONLY be working with the elderly in the hospital so why not get a CNA job there? I am all for MA's because I am one myself (or rather use to be since I am in nursing school now) but if you already or am about to be a CNA why waste your time getting your MA degree. Use your CNA degree. Although being an CMA gave me great experience, being a CNA will give you great experience too.

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Specializes in Geriatrics.

i say go for the MA. that would be a better course for you in my opinion

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From my perspective I would go CNA, I did it for 3 years UGH! BUT it did help tons so far in the first semester ADN program but whatever you feel better with do that, just know that a hospital setting isn't as grueling as a SNF by any means.

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Specializes in ER, Occupational Medicine.

I agree with heartswideopen, I too am a MA and I currently work in an ER as a CNA or PCT (whatever you want to call it) before working in the ER I did urgen care and gave meds and what have you, but I must tell you working in the ER is better b/c it gives you better exposure to things you will see as a nurse. I am a nursing student as well, I start Aug 2007 and I think my experience in the ER as a tech will carry me a long way.

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