CNA as a prereq for LVN programs.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Jan 4, 2008

Due to the extensively hands-on nature of CNA training, you are most likely not going to find a CNA course that is offered via online or distance learning. CNA training is a little bit of classroom theory interspersed with a whole lot of hands-on skills such as bed making, repositioning, toileting, transferring, using mechanical lifts, giving baths and showers, feedings, etc.

tmpMA · Jan 4, 2008

I see...Thanks for the info. =)

pink2blue1 · Jan 5, 2008

I'm interested in becoming LPN/LVN in California and the classes I have been reading about have some prereq's including current CNA certification...I was wondering though, does anyone know if it's possible to study on your own for the CNA test, rather than taking a course?
I don't want to work as a CNA, I just need it so I can join the LVN program.
I completed my MA program as one of the top 3 students. I know that CNA and MA are two totally different things, but I feel confident that my study habits and info retention will allow me to pass the test. I am not sure if that's even a possibility though. Do you guys have any info?
Thanks!
-tessa

I doubt that you would be able to do an online course for CNA. IMHO I feel that ALL nursing programs should require not only a valid CNA certificate, but experience working as a CNA. When I entered my LVN program I was the only person out of 30 who actually had worked as a CNA in acute care. I had 3 years experience. THis helped me greatly when I started clinical and after graduation as a new nurse. It's worth it!

Good luck!

midcom · Jan 5, 2008

"THis helped me greatly when I started clinical and after graduation as a new nurse. It's worth it!"

Not only will it help during your training but also afterward, when searching for a job, it is considered as experience in health care. Believe me, that means a lot. I wish I had realized it sooner. I had to take the training while in school but never worked as a CNA. now I'm trying to find a clinic job & can't get hired due to no experience. I was the top student in my class & those with experience are getting hired.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Jan 5, 2008

I'm trying to find a clinic job & can't get hired due to no experience. I was the top student in my class & those with experience are getting hired.

To be straightforward with you, your age might be a reason for your inability to quickly get hired. Your profile indicates that you are 56 years of age. Unfortunately, ageism quietly exists in the job market, and it is often practiced most profoundly against persons who are over the age of 40. No hiring manager will ever admit to the bias, but it is out there. Do not be fooled.

Middle-aged people are hired on a daily basis, so I am definitely not declaring that all people are victims of ageism.

midcom · Jan 5, 2008

To be straightforward with you, your age might be a reason for your inability to quickly get hired. Your profile indicates that you are 56 years of age. Unfortunately, ageism quietly exists in the job market, and it is often practiced most profoundly against persons who are over the age of 40. No hiring manager will ever admit to the bias, but it is out there. Do not be fooled.
Middle-aged people are hired on a daily basis, so I am definitely not declaring that all people are victims of ageism.

Thank you for noticing, and no, I'm not offended that you feel this may be a reason. You are only 26. I asked the same of HR and managers that I was interviewed by & was told that actually they felt the opposite, "mature" employees tend to be more dependable, dedicated, and have a much better attendance record due to not having to deal with babysitters, school closings, sick kids, ect. They don't have to deal with maternity leave & nurses who come to work hung over from a night of partying. They also mention the extra life experiences that we have encountered. Now, I realize that they'd never admit to ageism & I'm sure it exists but, I still believe that lack of experience is my problem.:angryfire

Dixie