CNA program question?

[hbs2]

Hello everyone!

Okay, I am going to take a 16-day class that runs 8 am-4:30 pm Monday-Thursday to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. I'm wondering if I should just quit my job before this, since I wouldn't be able to work 4 days of the week, then I'd be looking for a new job. At the same time, though, I'm not sure it would be worth getting a job as a CNA until I move in the fall. I'm 20 and living at home with my parents, and I'm leaving to live at my college this fall and hopefully apply for the nursing program after one year. I have money saved up, so it's not like I won't be able to survive. I'm just curious, is it a very hard couple of weeks? Will I have to spend a lot of time studying? I'm going to talk to the counselor about some of this, but it would be great to get all the opinions I can. I would appreciate any feedback!

[junigole]

Hi! The program will depend on your state. I live in NC. I did not find that I was unable to work part-time while taking a program that was structured the same as yours seems to be as far as hours in-class. I absolutely recommend that you set aside time to study, and take full advantage of any in-class practice time you are given. I would also ask off a few days before you are going to take your certification test so that you can concentrate on practice, if possible. However, I do not see any reason that you have to quit your job, unless you want to.

[wheresthealoha]

Sounds like you have a good plan sorted out. If I were in your situation I'd try to find another program that perhaps was only evenings, or maybe weekends. I wouldn't want to quit my job for just a 16 day class. As far as getting another job before moving, you don't want to have too many jobs that are short term on your resume, it doesn't look very professional. Good luck!!

[Missingyou, CNA]

I agree with "wheresthealoha". Maybe you can take the class in the evenings???

I didn't think the CNA class was difficult, but you MUST do the required reading and study at least somewhat, especially if you have no care giving experience.

Here's another thought, you can do home health care, where you can pretty much choose your schedule.(and possibly get some study time in!) You don't need your certification to work homecare, tho it pays close to minimum wage and you will be doing mostly house cleaning, meal prep and companionship. It's not a bad job and it will be an income while you train. You will get a pay increase with the home care agency once you are certified....thus, you will already have a job!! ...plus, it will give you some experience for your nursing program and your resume.

[Proton]

If your current job is willing to adjust your schedule, so that you can complete the course... I would recommend keeping it. Like the previous posts suggest; it's not worth quitting for a few weeks, neither does having 2+ jobs for a short period of time. It may suggest to future employers that you're not committed to long term employment.