Is is beneficial to get CNA before nursing school?

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I need some insight on whether or not it is beneficial to get a CNA license before attending nursing school?

Several schools that I have applied to strongly recommend it; some say it not necessary at all. Just wondering if anyone has any thoughts on this? I understand that if someone is already a CNA, it will undoubtedly help them them once in the RN program, but I am debating whether to get my CNA license after I graduate with my bachelor's before attending nursing school so that I am better prepared.

Is it worth taking the time to do so, even if these skills will be learned in the first semester of nursing school?

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At my school it's required, and I think it's a good thing. I think it gives a good base to build from.

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

I've wondered about this myself. I start nursing school fall '09 and won't have time before August to start & finish CNA classes. My thoughts were to see if I can complete the CNA classes next summer '10 & try to get a part time job at one of the hospitals during my last 2 semesters of nursing school. Another graduate of my BSN program told me that already having a job at a hospital will increase my chances of being accepted into the hospital's nurse residency program (which are competitive around here).

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Some say don't because then you'll have your own habits on how to do things that might not be the "right" way in nursing school. But IMO I think having the experience of being a CNA will definitely help me. However, I don't think it's absolutely necessary. Good luck!

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