Is working as a CNA a good idea?

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Hi, I'm new to this site. I have a question or two that I need answered by people with more experience in the nursing field. I'm a 20 year old college student. I'm going to school to be a Registered Nurse, but a friend of mine told me about CNAs. I would like to know if it would be a good idea for me to do some CNA work while I'm in school getting my degree for RN? Or is that not a good thing to do. There are classes that I can take in the city where I live for CNA work. Another thing, how long does it normally take to get your degree for RN? I would really appreciate the help.

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Many nursing students work as CNAs during school. Depending on your state, you may be eligible to test for your CNA after you've completed a certain amount of time in your nursing school studies. Working as a CNA can help you develop valuable skills, such as time management, comfort with the hospital, and a knowledge of basic nursing tasks. It can be very valuable if you have the time to devote to work while you're in school.

With regards to how long it takes to get your degree--that is something you need to be asking of the school you're in, not of strangers online. Length of time to obtain one's degree varies based on the curriculum of each individual school and on the type of degree (ASN vs BSN, etc).

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I am in APII now and taking a CNA course this summer. I was advised to get some experience prior to taking my entrance exam to gain some insight as to what to expect. I am taking the CNA at the same school that I am currently attending. There are 2 and four year degrees. Since you are young I would recommend the four year option. More education and better pay. Your pre-requisites are in addition to the 2 or 4 year degrees. Good luck.

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Specializes in Public Health.

Nursing programs are almost always 2 yrs tops. It's called a Bachelors degree. ADN programs more often than not, have pre reqs that take two years to finish so either way it's gonna be about 4 yrs. might as well bite the bullet now.

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Specializes in L&D, infusion, urology.

Working as a CNA would be great experience, and you can make some great connections that will help you when it comes time for looking for a position as an RN. It'll help you to see more of what RNs really do on a day-to-day basis, as you'll work alongside them.

Nursing programs are generally 2-3 years, depending on which route you take, in addition to the general education and prerequisite courses.

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