Should I work as a SNT before applying for a nurse extern position this summer?

[ninavous]

Hello! I'm so glad to finally be here in this community of nurses out to help each other. I just finished my first semester of nursing school, and some of my peers in my clinical group are getting positions at the hospital we do clinicals at, as Student Nurse Techs. It's a kind of glorified CNA position, for the nursing student to have during school.

I just wanted opinions on this topic because I don't know if I should "waste" the time I could be studying by being at the hospital getting (basically) CNA experience. Do you think I should get the job so when I apply for the externship this summer they already have an idea of who I am and my commitment to the hospital? Or should I finish out the semester and apply for the summer extern program then, without having the experience as an SNT? I study hard for long hours, so the 8 hour shift I work as an SNT could change the grade of the exam I take the next week, due to the missed studying opportunity. I can't decide if the SNT position is worth it or not.

I just want to make best use of my time, and I want to see what I could do to get myself the greatest chances for that externship. I want it very badly, and there is a small, limited number of spots.

I appreciate any input!

[203bravo, MSN, APRN]

I just wanted opinions on this topic because I don't know if I should "waste" the time I could be studying

If you honestly feel that it is a mere "waste" of time to obtain the position as well as experience and contacts that may come with it,, then I wouldn't even consider it.

[oops I bradyed again]

If you really want the externship position I think you should try and become an SNT. This will give them the opportunity to see your work ethic, get to know you, and decide if you are a good fit for the externship. Some students in my cohort who are working as SNTs are already being recruited by managers to work on their units after graduation. Getting some healthcare experience and networking as an SNT will be just as important to your nursing career, if not more, than your grades.

I would be careful about perceiving CNA work as separate from your nursing responsibilities. If you pay attention, working as a CNA (or SNT) will provide you with skills you will also use as a nurse such as; basic communication with patients, dealing with family members, charting, hygiene care, basic workflow, some hospital protocols, and so much more. Thinking you're above "CNA work" as a nurse is a disservice to yourself, your co-workers, and more importantly your patients. Your patients will rely on you to deliver this care when your CNA is busy in another room, or if you work on a unit that does not use CNAs at all. If you do get an SNT position please do not think of it as a "waste" of time doing menial CNA tasks, but rather an opportunity to learn, grow, and make connections that could possibly lead to an externship, or even employment. Good luck!

[nalie2, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN, NP]

Take the job. I took a similar position while in nursing school and I'm so thankful I did. It's probably not the same as the hospital I work for but they were super lenient with our schedules because the managers knew we were students. Not only do you gain invaluable experience but you may become familiar with the managers that do hiring and that is always a great thing.

Even though you do CNA work the experience is still worth it. Many CNAs and RNs were kind and taught me things like how to turn patients with the least amount of effort possible and how to access a portacath. You will find the time to study.