Should I be a Certified Nursing Assistant?

[TheDreamJourney]

Hi Everyone! I need some advice from CNAs. I have a BA in Psychology; however, I have decided to go back to school for an Accelerated Nursing program (ABSN). I applied to nursing schools and if I get accepted I will start in 2012. In the meantime I was thinking about enrolling in a CNA class which is only 7 weeks in my town. I gave in the deposit of $200 and have $1,000 left to pay. My mother thinks it's a bad idea because she wants me to wait to get into a nursing program instead of investing in CNA. I did my research for CNA and I think it would be beneficial for me. I never had experience in the health-care field and I want to learn these skills. I have volunteered in a hosiptal in the past but I didn't learn much. I wanted to know if being a CNA would help me find a job as an RN after I graduate. I have a BA in Psychology now and my mom wants me to find a job in this field for the meantime. But I want to be a nurse so badly and land a job after graduation!!! I am so confused and lost. As of now I have a temporary job in retail and don't earn much. Please help!!!!

thanks

[Dorachanga]

Yes do it!!! it will help you get a job after school ; ) and you can learn alot !!!!! The lvn and RN always go to the cna, they are nothing without the cna!

[NursingStudent07/11]

Many nursing schools like to see that you have your CNA first. There are also a few schools that have a new program for nurses. (My CNA "tester" told me about them.) If you already have your bachelors degree and you pass your CNA exam you can apply for the accelerated second degree nursing program. I am not sure which state you are in, but I know there are several here in Texas. And one more thing, if you want to work in a hospital after graduation, check to see what their requirements are. I had a CNA who worked home health while going to nursing school. The hospital she applied at after graduation would not allow her to start off working for them as a nurse. They have a 6 month "waiting period" where they asked her to work as a CNA first.

Hope this helps!

[tmanuel08]

Hi, i believe it is a good idea that you become a CNA first. You will get a lot of much needed experience especially if you find a job working in the hospital. I have been a CNA since 2007 and i have been working in the hospital for about a year and a half and i have learned SOOOO much. I start my nursing program next month(august) and I know that i will be more then ready since i know whats its like as a CNA and being around nurses all the time...go for it!!!