Should I Stay or should I go???? HELP!!

[RN1485, BSN]

Hi everyone,

I'm new to the forums and I was wondering if you guys could help me out making this decision. I'm a Nursing major trying to get my ADN. I thought that it would be a good idea to get my CNA license and gain healthcare experience since I don't have any. I got my cna license in October, however I'm having a hard time committing to finding a job. I've applied to places online but haven't really gone out there and applied. The more I read about CNA jobs the more I'm disinterested in finding a job. Right now I work an hour away but...I get NICE benefits, the pay is 11.86, and they will pay for half of my tuition (since I work part-time). I know experience is invaluable, but I have to pay for nursing school out of pocket. So I guess what I'm asking is do you think the CNA experience is worth leaving my cushy job for and can I expect similar pay and benefits working in an assisted living facility or nursing home? I'm also worried that the high stress that comes with working as a CNA might disable me from doing well in school...ahhh decisions, decisions. Any advice or related experience on the matter would be greatly appreciated!

-Kat

[fuzzywuzzy, CNA]

There's really no right or wrong answer, but if your job is low-stress with decent pay and great benefits, then I don't see why you should leave it.

Working as a CNA before being a nurse definitely has an upside... you get comfortable working with patients and generally have a better relationship with the CNAs than nurses who never worked as aides. Plus, CNA hours are usually pretty flexible and accommodating to nursing students. BUT it's not going to ruin everything if you don't do it. If you really want the experience, try working per diem somewhere.

[katehensley, BSN, RN]

^^^Agreed.

I was in the same postion as you. I worked a retail job that I quit for CNA experience. While CNA does give you great experience, it can be very stressful! I think the big thing here is the money issue. It is great you work somewhere with tuition assistance. I know at my previous CNA job, there was no tution assistance unless you were a full time employee that has worked there for at least a year.... somewhat impossible while doing nursing school.

Here is my two cents: Keep your job for now but look into CNA jobs. Assised living centers are usually the least stressful compared to LTC or hospitals. If you find one that is good pay, and gives you similar benefits (tuiton assistance) then take it. Well im just saying this is what I would do :)

In the end its up to you. Whatever makes you feel like you'll be a better nurse. CNA=experience. OTHER JOBS=low stress and more time to focus on nursing school. There are benefits on both sides! :)

Good luck with whatever you choose and keep us updated please

[RN1485, BSN]

Thanks for the input guys, really great advice! I think for now I'm going to stay where I'm at but in the summer, since I won't have classes, look for something on the side to gain experience. :)

[katehensley, BSN, RN]

Sounds like a good plan :)

[yousoldtheworld]

In your shoes, I'd keep your cushy job, but look for a per diem CNA position and try to pick up maybe a few days per month. Get a little bit of experience, but keep your good benefits. :)