Does being a CNA help you get into Nursing school?

[Di Deanna]

I have seen so many people opting to become CNAs and then branching to nursing. Does being a CNA help when you are trying to get into Nursing programs? Does it really make a difference or have any pull?

Thanks

[rn2bnwi, BSN, RN]

Definately contact your school and talk to them. it varies. Im in a 2nd degree accelerated BSN program. We graduate with a BSN in a year. I only know of two people in our group that were not CNA's (one is a respitory therapist)......all of us were CNA certified as it is a requirment. Because of the nature of our program they don't have time for 'nervous nellies' and training on the basic principals so being a CNA makes all the difference in the application process. but the only way to find out if it helps is to talk to the advisor. I found she was a wealth of information. Good LUCK!

[locolorenzo22, BSN, RN]

I FIRMLY believe every nurse should have at least 6 months as a CNA before getting their license. It definitely helps you learn how to relate to patients, understand rationales, do the basic care safely, and know how/when to do things. It also helps you learn how to prioritize....a great skill when you are nursing! CNAs do a lot of hands-on care, and I couldn't do my job without them. I frequently decide to go back and bathe or shave, or turn patients appropriately and know that I can give a frequent hand when they are swamped! I feel like CNAs are the backbone of any good facility. my .02

[jean36]

Beign a CNA would help at my school.