Should I start as a CNA and work my way up to RN?

Published

Hello,

I just wanted some opinions on what i should do. So i am a nursing major & i am debating whether i should start as a cna, then lpn, then rn. My community colleges rn program is very competitive, (as well as other local community colleges here in Cali) and i just don't want to be placed on a waiting list and wait 2 or more years to finally get accepted into the program so i wanted to know if anyone has climbed the ladder and what they think... I'm seriously in a pickle right now. Thanks in advance :cat:

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Trauma, Teaching.

Have you considered moving to another state where you won't have to wait 2 years?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

No... as much as i would like to move my finances wont allow it ...yet

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Working as a CNA will gain you some basic bedside skills. It is far from climbing the ladder.

You need a degree, period. I took all of my pre-requisites first, got a 4.0 average, then applied to to the program. If you don't make it into the community college nursing program on your first attempt, then rethink.

Please talk to an academic advisor.

Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

My personal opinion is starting as a CNA will be a valuable asset to you in your nursing career, regardless as to whether or not it makes you more competitive in schooling. CNAs are the primary caregivers now and often know much more about patients than their nurses. If you can learn what they have to go through and later relate and assist them in your career, I think you will find a wealth of information and assistance that would otherwise be unavailable to you.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Pediatric specialty.

Personally I started as a STNA, I am now a Medical Assistant in nursing school. Working as an STNA for those few years really helped with were I'm at. Also that having that on your resume looks good. My advice would be yes get a CNA job and try to get it with a company with tuition reimbursement so you can gain experience while you are getting your school paid for. Also honestly I would skip the LPN and work towards your RN if possible.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion