CNA/STNA Requirement

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  1. Should pre-nursing students become STNA/CNA's before applying to RN/BSN-RN program?

    • 2
      Yes, it is vital for nursing students to have the skill set and preparation that a CNA/STNA job sets up for you.
    • 0
      No, becoming a STNA/CNA may provide real-life experience prior to becoming a RN but it is a waste of money, time and energy unless you're going into the geriatric field.

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I am attending my community college's RN program next fall. I have a 3.68 GPA. This semester, they have made it a requirement that all pre-nursing students applying to the LPN or RN program MUST be a state-registered STNA. I was wondering what other pre-nursing/nursing students and nurses think of this.

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Specializes in ICU.

I personally was not a CNA/STNA and am currently a second semester nursing student. I can see why this should be a requirement - the first month and a half or so of our program was learning basics of care like hygiene, bed changes, toileting and other CNA duties. The foundation of being a nurse is built upon the duties of a CNA. Being a CNA also offers great experience in learning how to speak and care for a stranger. They also work in other fields aside from geriatrics like schools, NICU and ICUs. Those settings have a need for extra hands and although the job opportunities may be slim there, they do exist. I think it is very helpful and takes less than a year to acquire. If It was a requirement for my school, I would do it without issue. In fact, after the first semester of nursing school where I attend, you can register to take the CNA licensing exam (so not a requirement but shows how 1st semester information is a foundation). It's a great option for people who would like to learn about patient care and get paid.

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