LPN must obtain CNA cert to reenter school?

caliotter3 · Apr 7, 2011

I've run into a version of this. My advice is to find another program unless this is the only one available in the area. What idiocy!

caliotter3 · Apr 7, 2011

BTW, in my state a licensed nurse can not get a CNA certificate.

highlandlass1592, BSN, RN · Apr 7, 2011

Ok so this may turn out to be more of a rant than a question because right now Im really upset about it. I graduated with a diploma LPN and have been practicing for about 3 years now. I returned to the same school last year to begin taking required courses for ADN bridge program. I took all available courses and was rejected because most other applicants outranked me with A's in BIO courses (based on point system). So I thought I would apply to the next available ADN program (straight 5 semesters no credit for LPN) and was told I will need to take a CNA course and be listed as a CNA before being considered.
"But Im already an LPN" I explained to the advisor
"But you need to be a CNA or a Medtech to apply"
I tried to tell her as a practicing LPN I have CNA's and Medtechs that work under me and I believe my license allows me to work as a CNA but my pleas fell upon deft ears, being a nurse didnt matter, they want me to be a CNA
Have yall ever heard of this.Why should I have to get my CNA cert when I've already been licensed as a nurse.
This really frustrated me:mad:

I know it is crazy but with the market the way it is, they can cherry pick whomever they want without utilizing any common sense. As caliotter3 said, I'd look for another program.

If this program would be a good fit for you, then maybe you can tilt at a windmill (as I call it or have a "Don Quixote" moment) and try to speak to the dean. I wouldn't expect much other than walking out of there shaking your head but you could try.

Moogie · Apr 7, 2011

I agree. Speak to the dean. Hopefully the person with whom you spoke is simply misinformed.

Otherwise, I would consider this a bullet dodged and look for a different program. This is pretty ridiculous.

nurse0520 · Apr 7, 2011

Is the school just confused? In my state most of the colleges require you to take and pass the Nursing Assistant class before you can get into the LPN or RN programs at the schools. You do not need to get certified and work as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Did you ever take this class before you took your LPN? You might want to discuss this with the Dean as well.

allnurses Guide · Apr 7, 2011

I too would discuss it with the Dean.

If true - I'd find another school.

That's just wrong.

steph

kakamegamama · Apr 7, 2011

good griefa mercy!

evolvingrn, BSN, RN · Apr 7, 2011

go above that persons head, their not being logical.

lillymom · Apr 8, 2011

At my school anyone who applies to the ADN program must have current CNA cert, no other experince or title would be accepted. This came directly from the Dean of nursing and she said it was because they do not teach these basic skills in the ADN program.

The LPN-RN bridge program at my school also requires that an LPN work at least 6 months full time or 12 months part time before they can get into the bridge program.

allnurses Guide · Apr 8, 2011

At my school anyone who applies to the ADN program must have current CNA cert, no other experince or title would be accepted. This came directly from the Dean of nursing and she said it was because they do not teach these basic skills in the ADN program.
The LPN-RN bridge program at my school also requires that an LPN work at least 6 months full time or 12 months part time before they can get into the bridge program.

While I don't agree with having to get your CNA certificate prior to applying to ADN programs when you are just starting out and not a nurse - neither of these examples is what the OP gave.

She is already a licensed practical nurse. She's a nurse. And she's been working as a nurse for 3 years.

She shouldn't have to do the CNA cert in order to become an RN.

That's just crazy.

Simba&NalasMom, LPN · Apr 8, 2011

While I don't agree with having to get your CNA certificate prior to applying to ADN programs when you are just starting out and not a nurse - neither of these examples is what the OP gave.
She is already a licensed practical nurse. She's a nurse. And she's been working as a nurse for 3 years.
She shouldn't have to do the CNA cert in order to become an RN.
That's just crazy.

Agree. This is why I will most likely not bridge over into any RN programs in my state: none of them seem to care that LPNs are nurses too. I haven't been told that I have to have a CNA like the OP has, but there are still way too many hoops to jump through and expenses involved (most programs here tell LPNs, no matter how many years experienced, they have to start at the beginning). It's just plain insulting.

OP, some states do allow you to obtain a CNA cert. if you are already an LPN; you might contact your BON to find out.