CNA Question

[kellyo]

Anyone out there working as a CNA while going to school? At the conclusion of this semester I will qualify as a CNA I, and I am considering working weekends at a local hospital. Money is tight, and I need a job anyway--might as well help me w/ my studies, anyway, right? Do you think it helps w/ your clinical experience? Do the nurses teach you/show you things during your shift? I guess I just want to know if it is a good fit with your studies/shedule. What have your experiences been? Were you a CNA before nursing school? Thanks!

[LauraLou]

I started working as a Nurse Extern/CNA in May, after I finished my 1st semester. I worked full time over the summer and I now work Saturdays while in school. I am PRN so I pick the days I want to work. They have been very flexible about my crazy school schedule.

The experience has been helpful in that I am much more comfortable dealing with patients, nurses and the hospital environment. I have done really well in clinical this semster, mostly because nothing makes me nervous anymore. But, as others have said, you are so busy making beds, answering call bells, taking people to the bathroom, etc. that you don't get to see or do much else.

Beware, it is really, really hard work. I wanted to quit everyday for the first two months. Clinical days are nothing after working 12 hour shifts as a CNA. Overall, I am glad I chose to work as a CNA because of the experience but a part time job at the mall would be a whole lot easier.

[Maggie in NC]

I've been doing the CNA thing all semester on Saturday and Sundays. I have learned SO MUCH, especially what NOT to do.