Should I get a part time job?

[echo56]

We've just started clinicals this week. Although I enjoy this, I'm realizing just how much experience I actually have, translate that to none! My question. The facillity we're doing clinicals is very short staffed, and told us pointblank that they were needing more help, even part time. Should I consider working a couple days a week? It would be as CNA/PCT type work. Would that give me more experience to apply towards my clinical rotation?

I believe I could handle a couple of shifts, and still do the studying required. Also, I think this would help me get hired after graduation. Just looking for some input here. Financially I'm sitting pretty solid, so this would just be for experience.

[athrun340]

It's not a bad idea to get a part time job as long as you know that you can manage your time effectively and you won't let it affect your study habits. Working as a CNA would definitely help you in your clinical rotation. It will make you more comfortable especially when talking to patients. It will also hone your basic skills such as bathing, taking vitals, etc. You mentioned that you just started doing your clinicals and the job opening is for CNA/PCT Do you have your certification as a CNA? Because I know in some schools, you have to finish the 1 semester of clinical before you can take the test for CNA license.

[Mike R, ADN, BSN, RN]

I say if you're good with managing your time and actually studying after work, then go for it!

It'll give you great floor experience and you'll be able to relate things you see at work to your lectures.

Though if you're the type that needs a little extra TLC in the learning and understanding department, I might suggest no.