CNA vs Phlebotomy

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Specializes in CNA.

I am contemplating becoming an RN, but I want to get more experience before making that jump. I was thinking CNA or Phlebotomy, there are programs for both where I live that would enable me to enter the workforce in 4-5 months. 
 

Blood doesn’t bother me, but I know CNA would help me learn a lot of basics. 

Any advice would be appreciated, thank you. 

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Specializes in retired LTC.

Based on your expressed future RN goal, obtaining your CNA will provide a broader experience base. Better still, and MOST importantly, it can open up doors for future employment and networking contacts. INVALUABLE!

Phlebotomy is a good possibility also, but NOT the better of the 2, JMHO. Phlebotomy job opportunities can be limited (depending ...) and can just box you into a specifically focused career tract.

Your choice. Good luck.

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I started Phlebotomy and dropped it because they wants us to do 44 stick in 3 weeks. we couldn't do sticks at the hospital because of Covid19. We had to bring family/friends in to  sticks for blood to get our 44 sticks. If you have no one coming in to help you get your 44 sticks, you don't pass the class so be careful. Plus, In job search, Most want one to two years of experiences so I'd go for CNA and then maybe Phlebotomy. 

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If you want to be a nurse, do the CNA. It will at least get your feet a bit wet to the process of nursing. You'll pick up some useful information along the way. You'll have plenty of time to hone your phlebotomy skills down the line.

On 10/8/2020 at 5:17 AM, Just Peachy said:

I started Phlebotomy and dropped it because they wants us to do 44 stick in 3 weeks. we couldn't do sticks at the hospital because of Covid19. We had to bring family/friends in to  sticks for blood to get our 44 sticks. If you have no one coming in to help you get your 44 sticks, you don't pass the class so be careful. Plus, In job search, Most want one to two years of experiences so I'd go for CNA and then maybe Phlebotomy. 

That is totally insane.

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Specializes in retired LTC.

That's the problem with commercial for-profit schools.  They make all the rules - you pay your money and hope you can fit in. Very little chance for wiggle-room.

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Specializes in Physiology, CM, consulting, nsg edu, LNC, COB.

When you're a competent phlebotomist, that's great. But that's all. A competent CNA sees and learns so much more than that, and has a MUCH greater advantage when starting actual clinical rotations.

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Specializes in CNA.

Thank you all for the advice, I appreciate it.

 I am happy to say that I found a CNA/PCT program and will be starting next week. Orientation is tomorrow. 

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Specializes in retired LTC.

CobraFan - TY for the comeback. You made a good decision.

Good luck to you!

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Specializes in CNA.

Thought I would give you all an update:

 I have finished the first module and am a few days away from starting the second one. Don’t have my final grades back yet but I’m told I passed everything, so I’m halfway there.

Day 2 of class, we went completely online due to Covid. Someone decided to lie about being exposed to the virus, and then they tested positive. I did what I could to help my classmates as most of them were struggling with the online format.

We resume in-person classes on the 11th. We are going online for the first week due to the holiday.

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