CNA vs MA

Giant Panda, as a fellow and new pre-nursing student, I can tell you what I feel. I feel that if you work as a CNA instead of CMA you'll be more prepared for the situations you may encounter as a nurse or in nursing school. CNA's are specifically trained by the nursing process, and like you said are much more versatile. (Not to down CMA's) Here in my area of North Carolina, many physicians offices are hiring CNA's in CMA's place since they have much clinical experience, and can easily alternate from an office setting to a hospital setting pretty easily. Hope this helps.

Yes, very helpful indeed. Thank you the information. Where I live, there is an establishment that offers CNA and CMA training tuition free (except for book and supply purchases of course) that run during completely different dates. The CMA training starts this year, while the next CNA cycle starts next summer. If I can't get into a CNA training-program at another facility this year, I might as well do the CMA since it won't conflict with any CNA training.

But it sounds to me, based on your post, that CNA would be the better route to take. Thanks again!

Hope to hear other opinions on the subject!

No problem and yes, I do feel CNA is the better choice you know because it's nursing training at it's most basic state and I don't know how it is where youy live, but here in NC at most school when your trying to get into their nursing program, they require you to have your CNA and only your CNA nothing less. But, like you said if it would clash with your future training get what you can while you can. Lolz!!!

Thanks everyone. The only reason why I had the confusion is because I've read other threads here about other nurses taking the CMA route over the CNA route because the scope of practice was wider.

Good information to know - I am presently a MA (not certified) and was mulling over the idea of getting my CNA while I am completing Micro, Physio, some Spanish and some math prior to applying to ADN and BSN programs. But then I found out when I requested my diploma/graduation documentation from my MA school; they told me I could take refresher courses, so I guess I'll do both; or whichever can get me a job first.

Additionally, my friend is a CNA and works in a prestigious burn hospital (and has for the last 10 years). We met while embarking on this nursing journey together. She told me her hospital doesnt really hire Medical Assistants.

Good luck in whatever you choose - and what part of California are you in that offers free CNA training? I've looked high and low.

I'm in Northern California; about 45 minutes north of Sacramento in a town called Yuba City. If you're near the area, you might want to look into Yuba Sutter One-Stop. They offer a variety of health career courses tuition-free (you still have to pay for books and supplies though). Actually, they are actually having an informational meeting regarding all their programs on April 14th at 3:00PM.

And thank you! I wish you the best as well. :)