I just started my pre reqs for the ASN degree at SCC and im lost

nursejoy1, ASN, RN · Nov 23, 2008

I'm not sure about Florida, but Alabama allows nursing students to take the Nursing Assistant Certification tests after completing Nursing Fundamentals and the associated lab. We have had several do this at our facility, to, as you said, get more "hands on" experience. Good Luck

QuietRN · Nov 23, 2008

Hi! I just finished up my prereqs and was accepted into an ASN program which will start in January.

I don't know if you'd be able to find a position in a hospital that has to do with actual patient care - but you could try! I found that volunteering was a great way to start!! (That's what made me want to be a nurse to begin with!) As a volunteer I got to be familiar with the hospital setting and how things run. You obviously don't get paid - but it's a good way to be able to observe your career choice and be of service to others!

Look into the CNA program at your college (if they offer one)! I did it while taking my prereqs and loved it (it was a one semester course)!! It just made me more sure of continuing on into nursing (though CNA's do a LOT of dirty work - don't let it scare ya)! So, I have my CNA license...but I haven't actually had the time to work as one. But if you got that done in one semester - you could find work as a CNA while you continue in your schooling!

Good luck!! :)

caliotter3 · Nov 23, 2008

Lots of people work as CNAs while going to nursing school. It is a recommended activity to get you used to the atmosphere and give you experience in basic patient care. You also learn to look at things through the eyes of those that you will be supervising. There are different ways to become a CNA. Some schools allow their students to test after they have completed their first nursing courses. You can also find CNA courses in community colleges, at adult education centers, at job training centers, private schools, and in long term care facilities. Some Red Cross chapters provide courses, others only offer the certification exam. Once you have your CNA certificate you can get part time jobs at LTC facilities, acute care hospitals, private cases in homes, and in home health or staffing agencies. You can plan your work schedule to go around your school schedule. It is up to you. Good luck.

Cococure · Nov 23, 2008

hey nursing is my calling...i don't go to scc i go to vcc but i did go to the orientation at scc when i was considering that college. You need to go to the nursing orientation that they have for interested applicants they will answer all your questions there..its the best place to get an accurate response. I was a CNA/PCT before nursing school because i wanted to be sure nursing was for me before i started the program so i did a local CNA course and got my license. After your first semester of nursing school you can work as a tech at the local hospitals. Take it one day at a time and get through your pre-reqs first...ok:nuke:

good luck

coco

AprilCNA · Nov 23, 2008

Working as a CNA definately helps, and you will gain a lot of expierence. When it comes time for clinicals, it will be that much easier. I work in a hospital and find the nurses really helpful and show me lots of things. I can't do them yet, but by teaching me and letting me see hands on will make it easier when it's time for clinicals. I see nursing students now on my floor, who come to me for help, and it's a good feeling to know that I'll be all set when the time comes. I'd say to work in a hospital as a CNA than LTC, you'll see a lot more and gain much more expierence! Good luck!