Not a CNA, LPN, CMA, etc.

Published

I have considered becoming a CNA at one time, but since I'm already on the track to begin clinicals next summer, I don't really see the point of it. (I am traditional BSN-RN) Are there any previous or current nursing students who did not start off in the field as a CNA or LPN? What were/are your experiences as a nursing student without those certifications?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I went into nursing school straight out of high school, and did not obtain my CNA. My first couple of clinical days were a learning experience because I had to learn how to do simple things like take vital signs, do bed baths, assist patients with getting out of bed.. and so on. Some of my classmates who were already CNA's had a easier time adjusting to clinical because they already knew how to do all these things. However, I caught on pretty fast. During lecture, some of the CNA's in my class share their experiences at work and I notice that they are exposed to all sorts of different conditions. So in that regard, they definitely have a leg up on everyone else.

However, it definitely is possible to do well in nursing school without having that experience! I am proof of that.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

That's my fear... I start the RN program in January so I enrolled in a CNA program at a local community college

I feel that I have no background in the nursing field and would like a preview of what my first semester will look like.

I also want to start working in the field since my current job most likely will not work with my future schedule. I am thinking of applying for per diem weekend/nights position while I am in nursing school. Awwww the struggle begins!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I know most community colleges require that you have your CNA certification, and I was told that most hospitals will help student nurses who does not have their CNA to obtain it while they're going through clinical, which is what I may consider if that opportunity comes. In the meantime, I've just been getting my experience with volunteering.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Are you currently in nursing school? I would really like to hear more experiences from you!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Just to clarify a LPN does not obtain a certification, we are Licensed.

To answer you question, I became a tech at a hospital my last 8 months of nursing school. Glad I did it because it gave me a glimpse of what real world nursing was all about. Working as a LPN (I just became licensed in December) gives me a good grasp on what nursing is all about. I never knew being a nurse was soooo hard. It's a tough job and for a lot a people that just go straight into nursing is a huge culture shock and a not so good wake up call. "Clinicals" never prepares anyone for floor nursing that's for sure. As tough of a job it is I love being a nurse and about to begin my bridge for my RN.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Are you currently in nursing school? I would really like to hear more experiences from you!

Are you talking to me? If you have any questions just ask!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Are you talking to me? If you have any questions just ask!

Oh yes, that question was for you Simplistic. I was pre-nursing with a few CNAs that were already familiar with everything and it would kinda make me feel a little discouraged... just a little bit. My question is just how did you adjust to your schedule? Like did you work while doing clinical and if so, how did you manage your time? I always find interest in hearing from other student nurses.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Just to clarify a LPN does not obtain a certification, we are Licensed.

To answer you question, I became a tech at a hospital my last 8 months of nursing school. Glad I did it because it gave me a glimpse of what real world nursing was all about. Working as a LPN (I just became licensed in December) gives me a good grasp on what nursing is all about. I never knew being a nurse was soooo hard. It's a tough job and for a lot a people that just go straight into nursing is a huge culture shock and a not so good wake up call. "Clinicals" never prepares anyone for floor nursing that's for sure. As tough of a job it is I love being a nurse and about to begin my bridge for my RN.

That's wonderful! I wish you all of the good luck and thank you for your input. I will take it into consideration. :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Urgent Care, Emergency Department.

It is quite possible to do well going straight into nursing school. Some of my former classmates who worked while in school got stuck in the "that's not how we do it where I work" mentality, and they seemed to have a harder time adapting to the way we were being taught. Unfortunately there are always advantages and disadvantages to everything.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
It is quite possible to do well going straight into nursing school. Some of my former classmates who worked while in school got stuck in the "that's not how we do it where I work" mentality, and they seemed to have a harder time adapting to the way we were being taught. Unfortunately there are always advantages and disadvantages to everything.

Very true... I had all of my introductory nursing courses with CNAs and others who are already working with patients in the field who complained the most about what was being taught vs what they do at work everyday.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in OMFS, Dentistry.

I just graduated ASN a few weeks ago. I have been a dental assistant for 21 years. Nursing is a completely different realm for me. (But I love it) I think it is almost better this way because you learn from scratch instead of "this is how I was taught" or "this is how we do it". Best of luck to you!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion