CNA VS. LPN VS. RMA

[nrichiez]

Hello. I am currently a CNA student, about to take State Exams Next week. I am wondering what class I should take next. I am going back and forth between taking CNA 2 so I can work in a hospital or starting the LPN program or starting required classes to become an RMA ( required classes are CNA 1 & 2, EKG, PHLEBOTOMY ). I am basically lost. Can anyone tell me the difference and which is better to take? I am currently enrolled in an Associate in Science Degree program because my goal is to become a Doctor. While I am attending school however I want to be able to work as one of the 3 mentioned above (CNA, LPN OR RMA) . If anyone can help it would be appreciated. Thank you!

[RunBabyRN]

I would stick with your CNA if your ultimate goal is med school. Don't spend more time than necessary going through programs and such that don't necessarily help you reach your goal.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I would stick with your CNA if your ultimate goal is med school.

I agree. I know of people who have worked as CNAs while attending medical school. If you want to be a doctor, there's not much point in becoming a nurse or RMA.

Doctors provide care under the medical model, whereas nurses (LPNs) provide care under the nursing model. These two models have a totally different focus. In addition, RMAs generally work 9am to 5pm schedules, which would be inflexible for someone who needs to attend school during the day.

If you want to go to medical school to be a doctor, the CNA role would provide you with the greatest amount of flexibility in scheduling.