Should I take a CNA course or wait until after 1st Semester?

[peachshan, BSN, RN]

I have been accepted into a BSN program that will start in January. I am currently teaching but I am trying transition out of the classroom into the medical field. I would really like to have hands-on patient care but I don't have the CNA/PCT certification. I have been applying to medical receptionist and other administrative assistant jobs in the medical field but I don't know if I will hear anything. Should I take a CNA course now or should I wait until after my first semester and try to apply for the CNA/PCT jobs?

[ncgirl21]

I say go ahead and take it. Most programs can be knocked out in 8 weeks or less (depending on how much you meet) and you will get a little hands-on patient care with your clinicals. There are numerous day and night programs so just find one that works with your schedule! :) I know some people who have been offered jobs by the facility they did clinicals at and they will usually work around your school schedule also. I got my job within 2 weeks of getting my state certification!

[Stephalump]

I would go ahead and take the CNA for a couple reasons:

First of all, while that first semester or two of nursing school does count for experience, it might not circumvent any CNA preferences a hospital might have. Some hospitals flat out will not interview you without it. Even if they say clinical experience is accepted, you have to get past any filters they put up to even get your resume seen.

Secondly, 75% of your class (and every other nursing class around you) will start looking for a job after that first semester. You'll be sitting pretty if you started early and already have a job. If not, you'll stand out more when you do pop up on your potential employer's radar.

[peachshan, BSN, RN]

Thank you for your advice! I wasn't sure what direction to go in but this help me.