Getting a CNA job while in the BSN program

[LindyM011]

Hi guys! Im currently in a BSN program in Florida, and I have one more year left before I'm done. I really want to get some experience under my belt before I graduate because I know its probably going to be rough finding a job. My question is, can you get your CNA license without having to do the skills portion of the exam by being in a BSN program with clinical experience? I don't know where I think I heard that you can become a CNA just by having clinical experience. Any info would help!

Thanks so much!!

[WannaBNursey, ADN, ASN, RN]

If you want to be a Certified Nursing Assistant in the state of Florida you need to get certified! If you weren't already certified in another state you do have to take a written and skills test. You should have learned the skills in your first semester of nursing school. Some hospitals will hire a nursing student as an aide or PCA without being a CNA though. Best of luck to you, I strongly recommend working as an aide while in nursing school.