So many jobs

[MissBrianna]

Regardless of our economic situation, I frequent the classifieds, craigslist, career builder, etc. and there are so many jobs for CNAs. I've read so much on this forum, and my question is, is the only reason there are so many openings is because so many CNAs just give up and quit? I want this to become a stable career while I pursue an LPN education, but I fear it also.

I'm turned off and turned on to the idea of getting into the CNA program, and I battle with it constantly. However, i'm fairly set on the idea of doing it and have every intention of signing up and trying this summer. Do you think becoming a CNA is a good step while I get into the LPN program, or should I just continue my day job and start fresh with LPN.

Thanks!

[juliaann]

Being a CNA is really hard. You're often understaffed, underappreciated, and underpaid. It's sometimes hard to find help when you need it. It's emotionally exhausting. It can be backbreaking. There's little to no recognition or thanks for a shift filled with hard work. So yes, there is a lot of CNA turnover. Not everyone is going to be good at being a CNA, and definitely not everyone is going to be able to do it long-term.

That said, there are men and women I work with that have been CNAs for 5, 10, 15+ years. For the right person, being a CNA can be an enjoyable and rewarding job. The problem is, being a CNA isn't for everyone.

Yet it is something a lot of people try because the training is fast and relatievely cheap, and there are lots of job openings in most parts of the country.

I think being a CNA would be very helpful to you in LPN school and your career as an LPN. It's invaluable exerience, gets you used to one-on-one patient care, interacting with other medical professionals, seeing the ins and outs of what the nurses do every day, which helps you determine if it's right for you. Knowing you *can* be a nurse that you *want* to be a nurse is a huge help in getting through all these applications and stressful waiting times and pre-reqs. You'll know the end will be worth it! And you'll have connections and leads in the medical field when you start looking for that ever-elusive new grad nurse first job. :)

[ijh6890]

The experience is good. I know a lot of people in LVN school (we call it LVN in Texas) that work weekend doubles as CNA's to get them by. Usually weekend doubles is 4 shifts, on Saturday and Sunday. And as a bonus for working those shifts, MOST nursing homes will pay you for an unworked 5th shift. So pay for 40 hours, and only working 32. It is hard work and often people say it kind of takes a special person to do it. But good luck and hope it all works out for you.