Starting nursing school in the fall: Should I take CNA classes this summer?

[txwonder]

Hey y'all,

I am extremely grateful to have been accepted into a two year BSN program based on my grades and TEAS scores, and I'm thinking about taking CNA classes this summer to gain some clinical experience prior to starting nursing school in the fall. The only issue is that most of them in my area are kind of expensive:

• Houston Community College - $795: https://www.hccs.edu/continuing-education/ce-programs/certified-nurse-aide/
• Lone Star College - $894: http://www.lonestar.edu/Nurse-Aide-Certificate.htm
• San Jacinto College - $902: https://www.sanjac.edu/continuing-professional-development/corporate-and-workforce/health-occupations/certified-nurse-aide

I know that some facilities will pay you to become trained as a CNA, but since I'm starting school in August, I wouldn't be able to commit to working there after getting certified.

So I need some advice: Should I bite the bullet and just pay for a summer CNA course to gain clinical experience, or would the cost not be worth it since I'm starting school in the fall?

[PediatricMA]

I would look around at how long you have to stay at the facility for them to pay for your class. Even if its a few months I would say do it. The class vs real life CNA clinical experience is completely different and I feel like it helps a lot with experience in the long run. Also does your program require you to have STNA experience? I know some here in Ohio does.

[heavwhit]

How long is the session? I would say do it unless there’s no way you can work while you’re in nursing school then it is a waste of money.

[DocBarnes, ADN, BSN, MSN, PhD, APRN]

Not sure what area your in but....

Veritas Nursing Academy
9250 Bay Plaza Blvd suite 315
Tampa Fl 33619
813-447-5422
veritasnursing.com

Veritas is an approved provider for courses by the Florida Board of Nursing; we offer 4 day CNA or Phlebotomy training for just $360! Day/Night and Weekend Classes. We are also a Board approved provider for LPN and RN remedial or Refresher courses for those who have been out of practice for 5 years or more, have failed the NCLEX exam (3) times or who are foreign nurses trying to obtain their license in the State of Florida. We are one of TAMPA Florida longest and best CNA test prep program that offers students a fast, easy and affordable way to get certified in Florida!