CNA before RN

Nursing Students General Students

Published

What do you guys think of being a CNA before you become an RN?

I think everyone should go for there CNA licence before you become an RN but after you graduate i recomend not working in a nursing home or a hospital right off the bat. I worked in a nursing home for about 3 months after I became a CNA and it was awful, they treat ppl like there only there so they can make money, and thats not right, if your going to become a CNA make sure you want to take care of ppl before you think its a good job for you otherwise go for you RN because CNA's should be kind and good hearted people, not just anyone can hack it. Home health care is the best way to go if your CNA, it gives elderly people a chance to stay home, gives the person caring for them more of a chance to get to know them and its better for there health.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

In my daughters case:

My daughter is a CNA working full-time in LTC. She's been a CNA since she was 16yrs old. Her plan was CNA,LVN,RN; in her high school she was able to do her aid training and LVN prep courses. Now that she has graduated she is rethinking her plan. In her case working as an aid turned her off to nursing. But, it is not the work of an aid or nurse. It is the nurses. She loves her job and residents. She is young and impressionable. The majority of the RN's at her facility do not leave the nurses station. The RN's who took the time to get to know her are filling her head with stories about "how they remember when they thought they'd make a difference, improve healthcare, etc..." and then crush her dreams and aspirations with their version of a burnt out reality. Still, I have faith that she will find her way.

I became an LNA(same thing) and this is slowly happening to me. In fact, I might leave my current job because the majority of the RNs I work with are such a joyless bunch and I do not want their negative attitudes to deter me from my goal. Still, I am glad I got my LNA

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I would advise that anyone wishing to become an RN take a program for CNA. It won't hurt... only benefit you and make you have an advantage over the other students. I, myself, am certified as a Nurse's Aide and I love it. I am in the process of becoming a Certified Medical Administrative Assistant, Certified Medical Transcriptionist, and enrolled in a HUC (Health Unit Coordinating) class. I have no intentions of becoming a nurse! I am content with being a CNA... considering we spend the most time with our residents. I love what I do... I have a passion for it and although continuing up the ladder of success is somthing I want, I don't see myself as an LVN or RN. I'm 21 years old and am confused as to what I want to do ultimately in my life... perhaps becoming some type of doctor? I am undecided, but what I do know is that I am glad I choose the CNA program. It is the best thing I have done positive in my life. =]

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I am in my CNA training right now. I think that becoming a CNA first, especially in this economy, is super beneficial. Any additional experience you can add to your resume will only further your chances of having a resume that catches people's eyes. You want to be sure for yourself and your employer that you are dedicated to your skill. In this economy it is crucial. Obviously just having real world nursing care experience will help you in many ways. I would never think it is a waste of time, especially if you haven't started nursing school yet because many schools look at CNA experience as an A+ for admissions.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I'm a licensed teacher with a bachelor's degree in education. I recently decided to go back to school for a BSN so I can be a RN. After making the decision, I registered for a CNA class. The class coordinator spoke to me after the class's information session about why I was taking the class at this point. I told her I plan to be a RN and want to get as much hands on experience in the medical field as I can. I COULD just go through school and go directly into being a RN, but I enjoy "getting my hands dirty." I realize it's not the most pleasant job, but I think I will be able to relate to my co-workers (CNA's) better when I'm a RN. Plus, it raises eyebrows that someone with a college education is willing to "start at the bottom" - it raised the class coordinator's brows enough to speak to me after class.

I don't think it's NECESSARY, but it shows you're willing to work - that's for sure.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I am a newby to this forum. I have a few questions for all. I have a AA in Healthcare Administration and currently completing my BS in Healthcare Administration. I will start the CNA program in a month. After I complete the CNA program, I want to get into the LPN program. Can someone tell me how to get prepared for the initial testing to get into the program as well as other books that I will need to study to get through the first two blocks?

Thanks

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Well I lost a job and was going to school and really needed a job with flexible schedule and could pay those car payments. And got so much more than I expected I work overnight, go to school until 1pm than get to sleep. Pays the car payments. Pays for some of school and Ive got my foot in the door. And added bonus on the overnight if theres downtime the nurses help me study. :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Im also not certified.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I would say go for it. I am a CNA and work in a LTC facility, and I can tell you that many of the nurses stay at the nurses station, only go down the hall when necessary to pass out meds, and generally are squeamish around feces and urine. It is an everyday thing for me. There have been many occasions where I have gotten feces on my clothes and I still do this job. I am not saying that you wouldn't be good at the job if you never were a CNA, but it certainly would give you confidence in dealing with patients. Also, I can tell you that you would garner a lot of respect from other CNA under you if you have had experiences in the "trenches." But please please don't work so much that your grades start to slip. If you can, try to utilize a summer to gain experience. Starting from the bottom up is never a bad thing and in the end, I believe it makes you a better person. God bless :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment