Is it beneficial to become a CNA if you are also becoming an LPN?

[em_loves_tex]

I'm starting school in the fall to get my LPN but for now I'm having a hard time finding any decent paying jobs in my town. I've been thinking of taking a CNA class because I always see tons of CNA jobs available around here.

Is becoming a CNA beneficial when looking for LPN jobs later on (once I graduate)? Does it look good on a resume? Is it helpful with the LPN program since it will help me learn the basics?

Just wondering if it's something I should definitely do, or if I should just keep on with my job search. Anybody do anything similar?

[KimberlyRN89, BSN, RN]

I'm starting nursing school next week & yes I totally think its beneficial to become a CNA first. There are some companies who will even help pay half of your tuition for school! I say go for it :) Good luck!!

[MurrR]

Having your CNA license and working as a CNA looks amazing on your nursing school applications, first off. Second, you begin to develop your MO - how you approach different kinds of patients/clients/residents. Third, you can pick up a lot from nurses. I've asked a lot of questions as a CNA, and even though what I've learned is outside my scope of practice it's still interesting to know and I figure gives me a leg up for when I do get to nursing school.

Also, once you're through the LPN program you'll - hopefully - have had some experience working in the field. That's gonna look good on your resume when you start applying for those LPN jobs you're hankering for. :)

One of my instructors, a nurse of 40+ years, told us that she wished all modern nursing students took CNA courses before starting nursing school. After being a CNA for about a year now, I can understand why. I'm never going to forget the nurses who were nice to me and helped me out - Or the ones who were nasty and didn't appreciate an extra pair of hands around!!