CNA to Nursing?

Your repeating my story. I did not decide to enter into nursing till I was 31. Before I jumped feet 1st into nursing school I took a job as a CNA to make sure this was really what I wanted.

I never worked so hard for such little money in my life!!! But the experience gained was way more valuable than my measly paycheck.

Not only did I get great hands on exp, I also found myself working in a hospital that graciously paid a large chunk of my tuition and during my last semester of nursing school while my classmates were hitting the pavement trying to find a job, I had 3 dept heads at my hospital contact me to see what my intentions were after graduation.

The transition from CNA to nursing was easy for me. Not every one takes that route. Cna to nurse. But I would recommend it.

Plus I think it makes a big difference in your clinical's too. I already knew the flow of a hospital, and knew basic pt care before my 1st clinical.

Best of luck on an exciting/rewarding future!!!

I belive it's a requirement in our state (WI) and I agree- it's highly recommended. Best of luck!

Personally I think every RN student should be required to have some hands on experience outside of school. Not enough emphasis is put on the basic care in clinicals, such as lifts and transfers, moving a patient in bed, baths and bed baths, and just the basic bed side manner that you acquire when working in the field that makes you comfortable around your patients while you are focusing on tasks such as dressing changes, injections or other personal care tasks. Also, you get a realistic view of the shortage, the shifts, the environment and the people before you jump in with both feet.

I went from CNA to LPN to RN and I think it served me well. I believe when you have honestly walked in the shoes of those you will be managing/delegating to you can respect and work better with those team members. Just be warned you will work your tail off as a CNA for very little pay. Take it as a learning experince to know what they go through. Its tough work!

Thank you to all of you for responding to my question so quickly. I will definitely take your advise.:typing

It is awesome experience! Very little will freak you out in nursing school, and you will develop outstanding interpersonal skills! Good luck to you!