Question about students working as CNAs....

texastaz · May 6, 2009

I am not a student however the physical work of a CNA can burn you out. On the other hand after doing so much mental work - the physical is refreshing. Depending on your finacial needs - I personaly would not just jump from Admin Asst to being a CNA. I would advise once you do get your CNA license - sign up with a agency and let them know you want to work facility only - with a Agency you are not bound to work a min number of hours like you would be if you were to even frind a part-time job as a CNA, and let the Agency know when you are available(you can work only 1 or 2 days a month). This way you can try working CNA without quiting your job as a Admin Asst and possibly end up in a situation you regret.

azcna · May 6, 2009

Don't let anyone tell you that you cannot work full time as a CNA and be a student! If you love nursing, you can do it. It will be hard, but if you like to work hard it will be no problem. You might not get as much sleep as you used to, but it works for me. I take day classes and work second shift.

I did the same thing as you, went from administrative assisting to CNA. And I could NEVER go back. Working in an office is so boring compared to being a CNA! Even on the busy office days! Good luck with your decision!

ursus57 · May 7, 2009

My boss has major turnover at the LTC I'm employed at. I am in school evenings, and work 30 hrs each week. I have a really good situation, my boss accepted my schedule, up front. Started without a CNA cert, received my cert, due to graduate to LPN in a few months. Students are often preferred due to thier training in school helping them as CNAs. The major problem is that you may need to move to another workplace when you get a diploma. My bills are low and I have other income, so we get by.

Although I have never said it to my boss, I need the school much more than my job, for the long term. Schooling is my over riding goal at this time. If work bagan to interfere with my school I am willing to flip burgers or mow lawns until my schooling is done. For my situation this works very well.

laughingtoe · May 7, 2009

I just started working as a CNA in January at a hospital. Before that I worked at a large insurance company for 5 years where I sat at a desk all day. I was incredibly bored by the office atmosphere, so I started working as a CNA once I began nursing school. It was a bit of a difference from my office job, but I love being a CNA. I love the interaction with patients and the opportunity to see things I've learned about in school, i.e. NG placement, foley insertion. The work is hard and demanding at times, but it's worth it. I hope this helps in your decision.

caliotter3 · May 7, 2009

Working as a CNA will be very useful to you as you begin your career in nursing. If you go to work in a long term care facility it will become routine very soon and you will start looking for the challenge of applying your nursing knowledge. If anything, the biggest problems you might encounter will be coworkers with less than desirable attitudes and work ethics. Everything else is part of the job and can be adapted to. Good luck with your career.

mncna08 · May 7, 2009

I am in school right now, i go 3 days a week and i work every weekend. it works out nicly for me because i have plenty of study time. it of course does not give me a ton of money, but i get by for now. good luck!