IHeartPhysiology

You may need to research whether a part-time program is even available. Area ASN and BSN programs are full-time only. Or, were you referring to doing pre-req's part-time? Good luck with whatever you decide!

I didn't see your update. Congratulations!!

At my local hospital they only hire CNA II's (Acute Care Certified). All nurse assistants must have certification and nursing students do not get preferential treatment. Keep trying! Most jobs are filled before there is a job listing. Take a resume and cover letter personally to HR and be persistent. Good Luck!

It depends on whether your school is on quarters or semesters. My school uses quarters, hence: AP I, AP II, AP III. Schools using semesters have AP I, AP II. 2 semesters = 3 quarters.

Agree with the above; it really depends on the school and how competitive enrollment to the program is. Get an honest opinion from an advisor or program coordinator. There is NO WAY C's would fly at my school. There are straight A students who don't get accepted!

From what started as a very long list, I only have two pre-requisites left to complete next term: A & P III ANTH 103 ( Cultural Anthropology) I'm applying in the Spring for next Fall.

RT stands for respiratory therapist. It's still a challenging program, but I feel that, for me, it will be less stressfull (than nursing) all around. And, I'm really fascinated by the respiratory system! When I fist wanted to be a nurse, I wanted to work in a clinic. Well, after some research, and many pre-req's down the road, I learned that in order to be an RN in a clinic you have to have many years of experience and, apparently, a letter of recommendation from Jesus himself. (:chuckle) Most nurses in my area work rotating hospital shifts, as this is how our local hospital staffs nurses, especially new ones. And, I will admit, I was naive about how incredibly all-consuming nursing school would be. Not to mention the first year or so as a new nurse. Now that I know a little better I'm starting to wonder if this is the right for my family. I would go for the gusto, no holds barred, if I were childless, but my kiddo's well-being comes first. I will take up a less-lucrative career if it means being there for her in the way that she needs. What can I say? She's a mamas-girl! Just remember, every family is different. Some kids really just roll with whatever comes their way. Parents who undertake a high-stress educational path/career like nursing will undoubtedly find family life challenging, at least through school and the first few years on the job. If the rewards to you are worth it, and you feel your kids will do well (you'll NEED a great and reliable support system; spouse, SO, family, and all the friends you can get!), you'll do GREAT!

I feel it's pretty tough; it takes a lot of time management. I'm just finishing my prereq's (only 2 classes left!), and now I'n seriously reconsidering nursing as a viable career when I'm the primary parent to a four year old. I really don't get to spend the amount of time with her that I need to be in order to be a good parent. She's in pre-school all day, and I am constantly studying. She is a bright and friendly child, but since I have been in school full-time (a little over a year), I have noticed a decline in her behavior (clingy, sad, whiny, etc....). And I MISS her!! I'm applying to my community colleges ASN nursing program next month (that is set to start Fall 09). I am also applying to the RT program. BUT.....I am in the process of getting my CNA certification so I can at least start working at SOMETHING. I am also applying to my colleges Medical Assistant program (1-year certificate and it's only $700) as a "back-up" in case I don't get into nursing or RT. To be honest though, I'm thinking it would be kind of nice to be a medical assistant. Way less stress and responsibility, and family-friendly hours. We'll see..... If your heart is really in nursing, you will find a way to be a nurse. It's just more challenging with kids, especially young ones.

Wow; the CNA course is only 2 weeks?? The CNA course at my college is 3 months (one term). I'm taking it in the spring because my pre-req's will be done. I'll just be waiting to see if i was admitted into the program. Do you have a lot of pre-req's left to complete? Maybe there's a weekend/ evening certification course you could take. These are sometimes also offered through LTCs and the Red Cross.

Thank you for your encouraging replies; I really am excited to start working as a CNA. I like the sense that what I am doing really matters and it appreciated by the patients/residents I work with. Does anyone have any suggestions for reading material (besides the standard textbooks) or web resources for CNAs? :typing

LOL! No curving at my school. That would sure be nice, though.

Personally, I thinks those are two pretty hefty classes to take at once. At my school, though, you cant take chemistry with micro because chem is a prerequisite for both the A/P sequence and microbiology. So for me, it was a non-issue. Good luck.

I am not starting my CNA class until late winter, but the course I am taking is 12 weeks long and requires: Textbook at least 2 sets of scrubs WHITE shoes a stethoscope a watch w/ a second hand I think you have gotten GREAT advice from others. Just be mindful of the specific requirements of the class before you go out and but anything. The CNA course I am taking has a mandatory orientation wherin they tell you exactly what you need before classes begin. And, yes, there is a HUGE difference in stethoscope quality, but some simple internet research and/or asking other health professionals can point you in the right direction. Good Luck!

Hello All, I will be taking a 12 week CNA course through my local community college soon and would like some encouragement from other CNAs. What are your favorite parts of the job? What are your LEAST favorite parts? Where do you work? ALF, LTC, SNF, hospital, home care, clinic...... I'm a little nervous about whether I am cut out for it! Thanks!

Okay, I know this is an old post, but.......... :chuckle:chuckle:chuckle