Should I try to work as CNA before I get my RN?

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Hello-

I'm hoping to get accepted and start nursing school (BSN) Aug. 2011. In the meantime I'm holding a full time job in an unrelated field while I take a few pre-reqs. I am wondering if it might be a good idea to get my CNA certification and work as a CNA before I start school to become an RN. Some nurses tell me not to do it because the work is "awful", others seem to think its a good idea because it will give me that experience and may help with applying to schools.

Please send me your thoughts on this if you have a moment. I would greatly appreciate it.

Best regards,

Lili

YES!!! My CC RN program requires us to become CNAs before we enter the program so we could get the basic skills like handwashing and how to take vitals outta the way. I've been watching a lot of videos about RN school (I start this summer) and I've notice that in the RN programs that don't require their students to have taken the CNA class, they spend a lot of time teaching those skills. If your school doesn't require it I say still go for it because it'll be less for you to worry about because you'll already know how to do those skills. You can also work part time as a CNA while you get your RN and get your foot in the door for when you graduate. It this job market every little bit helps to make you stand out from the rest.

Specializes in Med Surg - Renal.
I'm a pre-nursing student right now and still need a years worth of pre-reqs before I can apply for my bachelors in RN. I'm planning on getting my CNA in a couple of months and hopefully I'll be able to work part time while going through school. I think it can only help with finding a job after school & help get into school.

Yes. I think working as a CNA should be mandatory for anyone entering nursing school.

I am Getting my CNA certification as we speak. Just by having the few clinicals I have had, there is nothing more rewarding then giving a bath, changing soiled briefs, or learning the history of those before me. Yes it can be challenging, but this experience so far has only deepened my desire to be a nurse. I truly believe this experience will only benefit me and my patients in the long run. I personally would rather have someone who has experienced all sides of nursing, then someone who is afraid to get their hands dirty.

You can and should, but just watch out. I had someone who I worked with that did exactly that. They entered the nursing home with the intent that it would be a stepping stone for their medical progression. However, they quickly got off track. Within a couple of months, they got settled in and basically fell into the routine of it. Furthermore, she told me later that the thought of going back to school and giving up her current salary wasn't very appealing. Needless to say, she is still a CNA...not that there is anything wrong. I just suggest that you really give yourself a time table and move on quickly. Or else you will end up like her. It is important to note though, that she is very happy.

It depends... CNA in a hospital, yes. CNA in a nursing home... no. I have know a lot of girls who stop going into nursing after working in a nursing home. LTC is very different than hospital experience. You do get tons of patient contact and learn bed side manor, but it is a lot different than a hospital. Plus the nurses in LTC barely use any real nursing skills. Plenty of them have told me all they do is med pass, and assessment skills. Work as a CNA in a hospital and get real experience before you become a nurse.

Hey! I'm about to take a huge paycut to become a CNA as a way to decide if I want to pursue Nursing School. (Well, I know I want to pursue it, but I think this is a good idea to do first).

Did you end up becoming a CNA and was it worth it in the long run?

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