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Depending on what state you're in, you may be able to challenge the CNA exam after a short time in the RN program (usually about a semester). This would allow you to work in the healthcare industry, while completing your RN degree. Becoming a medical assistant would give you experience in outpatient, physician's office-type settings, as that is where they are mainly utilized.
As far as the LPN program, it depends on the length. Is it five days/week? That could really impact your ability to work during the program.
amanda1266
18 Posts
Hello all,
I'm 29 years old and after a couple years of wandering through life totally lost and wondering what I should do, I have decided on Nursing. I'm very excited for this new adventure. I'm also confused about where to begin. I must work as I have a home and myself to take care of. So I think I need to do a short program as a way to get myself into the medical field. My ultimate goal is to become an RN. My community college offers a few different programs and I'm not sure what to do. This is what they offer:
Certified Medicine Aide
Certified Nursing Assistant
Medical Assistant
Nursing (2 year program for RN)
Practical Nursing
Should I do the CNA program? What about the medical assistant program? I see in my college book that the medical assistant program is much longer than the CNA program. Or what about the LPN program. Or should I just go straight for the Nursing program and just work a non-medical related job while doing so?
I'm so confused on what to do.. Thanks to all for any help.