Debating on CNA job

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I feel like nursing is a passion I need to pursue. To see if I'm cut out for it, the obvious next step is to go for a CNA position, but there are a few things stopping me.

One of them is that I got a job about a month ago. I'd really rather not quit at this point. It's not that I rely on the money or anything ($8 an hour) but I don't want people thinking that I gave up on it, you know? I don't want to be viewed as a quitter.

The other challenge is getting my certificate. Some LTC's offer training in exchange for employment, but they're basically all day classes which conflict with my schooling that is full time. The Red Cross is offering training during winter break, but it's in a city about one hour away. I don't know if I can manage to do that commute.

Any advice or tips? I'm at a loss at what to do

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Hi Zac100,

I took a CNA class, saw how CNAs are worked to the bone and opted not to pursue certification. I was a LVN and I am now a RN and can safely say that, yes, I am cut out for nursing despite not being cut out to be a CNA.

I am of the opinion that while being a CNA is an excellent step into the world of direct patient care, it does not offer a complete picture of what it takes to be a nurse. You will see, hear, touch and smell (not taste, blergh) the things nurses do and be a crucial part of healing and recovery... but you will not immediately see the mental parts of the nursing process and responsibilities that come with being a RN or LVN. Plenty of laypeople see nurses touch here, there, listen for a bit then click away at the nursing station computer and assume that's all there is. But there are several intangible aspects of the nursing process that will take a few years' education, licensure and work experience as a nurse to fully appreciate.

So what I am saying is reconsider the idea that the "obvious next step" is to become a CNA. I think it will be an asset but I don't think it is a requirement.

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Thanks for your enlightning response.

The main reason I want to be a nurse is to be able to make a positive difference in someones life. Yet I understand the job of a nurse is difficult and stressful.

I feel if I can deal with the stress and other difficulties of being a CNA but atleast make someones day a little better, it will all be worth it and push me to continue my education, become a nurse and hopefully be able to help more people.

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Specializes in LTC.

I have been a CNA for 17 years. I'm going into nursing school starting in January.

IMO, I would say that being a CNA may not be a requirement, but it would be a HUGE asset if it's something you are willing to do; even if only for a short while.

When I work the floor, I can tell the difference between nurses who have CNA experience, and those who don't. They have more of a sense of what can realistically be accomplished.

It is VERY true that CNA's are under paid, under appreciated, and over worked. It is very stressfull, but there are the moments when the person who is under your care looks at you, and gives you a sincere thanks. Or a family member hugs you after their loved one has passed away, and lets you know how much you meant to them/the family member. When you know in that one moment exactly why you became a CNA. To help someone, to be there for them, to guide them through whatever they are going through. CNA's are the care takers who spend the most time with the patient/resident. They are the ones who will notice if a BP is too high, even if that means the BP is within clinical norms. They are the ones who will be able to let you know if a behavior is normal.

No, it may not be required, but I know that it helps incredibly.

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It is very stressfull, but there are the moments when the person who is under your care looks at you, and gives you a sincere thanks. Or a family member hugs you after their loved one has passed away, and lets you know how much you meant to them/the family member. When you know in that one moment exactly why you became a CNA. To help someone, to be there for them, to guide them through whatever they are going through. CNA's are the care takers who spend the most time with the patient/resident. They are the ones who will notice if a BP is too high, even if that means the BP is within clinical norms. They are the ones who will be able to let you know if a behavior is normal.

This is exactly what I want. The knowledge that I made someone's life better.

So the Red Cross has their CNA Class for $1,400. Since I'll be commuting two hours a day, thats an extra $200 bucks making it $1,600 total to take the class.

Is that relatively expensive for a class?

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@Zac100

Morning to all,

I don't have much to offer on your question as to if CNA is a good start, becuase i'm in the same quest as you. For me I do feel it is the right direction in the path i've decided to take.

I would like to inform you to check around for your CNA class. As you have listed that the class is $1,400, seems to be very expensive. I am in Florida so pricing may vary, but I have found classes much less expensive. The one I have an interest in is $790 but doesn't include any extras; such as ekg & phelb. This appears to be a average price in my area.

So just check around and make sure your getting the best education for the money. :)

I wish you well!

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