New grads & CNA experience

Art_Vandelay · Jul 13, 2012

My CNA experience definitely helped me land a position as an RN. If you are already an employee, you shouldn't have problem getting the interview. If only I didn't have to move across country as soon as I graduated I would've landed right into med/surg.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Jul 13, 2012

My workplace recently promoted a longtime unit secretary who graduated from a local nursing program. She is now on orientation as a GN (graduate nurse) while she waits to take NCLEX.

BrandonLPN, LPN · Jul 13, 2012

Short of having your mother being the nurse recruiter or something, being a CNA or LPN first is the best possible way to land a job as a new grad RN.

Mom2Chaos · Jul 13, 2012

I worked as a CNA, and while the facility I worked at had NO positions open in which they would take a GN (budget, staff mix, etc)- I applied at another facility and was called by HR the next day. During the interview she directly stated that she was interested in me because I had hospital experience and a BSN.

Good luck!!

ashleyisawesome, BSN, RN · Jul 13, 2012

im a pca at a hospital, and about to graduate in about 23 days.. ok exactly 23 days. but ive already got 3 interviews at the hospital i work at for different units, while many of my classmates have none. having a job as an aide where you want to work as an RN is definitely a good idea.

KelRN215, BSN, RN · Jul 13, 2012

I am not a new grad but YES working as a CNA undoubtedly gives you a leg up.

SpringNurse · Jul 13, 2012

Great topic.

lalopop86 · Jul 13, 2012

Thank you all for your comments and responses! I always thought it would help, but with hearing about how tight the job market is out there and how different CNA and nursing tasks and responsibilities can be, I've been curious :nurse:

rockstar11 · Jul 13, 2012

My CNA experience was at a nursing home, before I started nursing school. It didn't matter to the hospital jobs at all. In fact when anyone asks about my previous experience they make a point to say that it doesn't count.

However, if you are a nursing assistant/tech/extern at a hospital - that's whole different story. Mostly because the unit you are on is likely to hire you if they like you. Also, corporations tend to look internally first (you!)

alibee · Jul 14, 2012

Yes, most of the techs at my hospital who graduated this past May have landed RN positions (including me, yay!). It definitely is to one's advantage to find a tech job, show your work ethic, and make a name for yourself in a hospital setting.

sbostonRN · Jul 15, 2012

Thank you all for your comments and responses! I always thought it would help, but with hearing about how tight the job market is out there and how different CNA and nursing tasks and responsibilities can be, I've been curious

It doesn't have anything to do with your tasks and duties. It's about showing the nurse manager how strong your work ethic is, and being a team player. I worked in a non-patient care role at a large hospital while in nursing school. It was a huge disappointment when I graduated and didn't have an "in" because I didn't know any nurse managers or recruiters! The more people you know and the more you can prove yourself, the better. Also, working as a CNA and learning how to interact with patients will help you when you become an RN.