Nursing questions

[abrod]

Hey everyone, I’m looking to be a future nurse and I’m just trying to figure out what’s a good way to prepare. My high school offers a CNA class but I don’t have space for it and I feel that when I get to actual nursing school that I’ll be the only one who doesn’t know the basics. Is it a good idea to get my own things like a stethoscope and blood pressure cuffs and stuff so that I can practice and learn how to do it or is it just a waste? Also are there requirements on what kind of stethoscope you have in Nursing school? Is there a brand every school uses or is each school different? Does it actually matter as long as I have a good one that works well? Thanks for the help!

[babysplash, ADN, RN]

Every nursing program has different requirements. I would narrow down what schools you are interested in applying for and see if they require a CNA certification as a part of the application process. In my experience, people I am in school with have PCT, X-ray tech, or EMT experience, but we are all new to learning nursing process and material. The perquisites for your chosen school will put you on par with everyone else - anatomy and physiology, psych and maybe pathophysiology or pharmacology will give you a base of knowledge to apply to your nursing curriculum. I personally was not a CNA before I began nursing school so I don't know if it can help you, but I don't think it will hurt, of course. As far as supplies like blood pressure cuff and other medical devices, your school should provide for you. They will also teach you how to use them properly (or to their standards) My school required us to provide our own stethoscopes - we were told as long as you can hear heart tones, bowel and breath sounds clearly, it will do the job. I use a Littman stethoscope which has a great reputation in the health care industry. A person I was in class with said he bought his at CVS. After 2 weeks, he said he needed to purchase a new one because he couldn't hear that well, but most of the time it is up to you to pick.

[Neo Soldier, BSN, RN]

I recommend getting your CNA certificate for sure. For one, it gets you a chance to know if nursing is what you want to do. Also, some schools take into account some healthcare experience for your application. The CNA school I went to was four weeks long Mon-Thursday or eight weeks long for weekend only classes. There is also the option of getting your CNA class done during a summer break before you begin your pre-requsites.

Having your CNA certificate is really for your benefit. You're not necessarily better off than someone who has no prior experience in nursing school. Don't overspend on a stethoscope. I agree with the statement below.

3 hours ago, babysplash said:

we were told as long as you can hear heart tones, bowel and breath sounds clearly, it will do the job