Will working as a CNA be a good job while in Nursing school?

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I am a pre-nursing student. I am going to get my CNA license over the summer. I figured since I could use a job while in school that I would get a job as a CNA since it's related to my major. I don't have any major bills to pay, but my car payments which is $300. Anyone know what the average salary is for a CNA in Florida by the way?

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Specializes in ED, trauma.
I am a pre-nursing student. I am going to get my CNA license over the summer. I figured since I could use a job while in school that I would get a job as a CNA since it's related to my major. I don't have any major bills to pay, but my car payments which is $300. Anyone know what the average salary is for a CNA in Florida by the way?

How long til you enter the nursing program? Some hospitals will consider 1 semester of nursing school with clinicals as experience towards PCT, and they will hire you that way.

If there's a longer period of time in between CNA/PCT class and the nursing program, then the experience will certainly help you. It will make you feel more confident as you go forward in your nursing career. :)

As for salary...it depends on location. I have heard any where from $8-$15/hour plus differentials for holidays, nights, and weekends varying greatly among the hospitals. Something like $0.75-$1.50 is what I have heard.

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CP2013-I enter my nursing program in 2014, but I'm not waiting until then. I'm getting my CNA license this summer.

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Specializes in ED, trauma.
CP2013-I enter my nursing program in 2014, but I'm not waiting until then. I'm getting my CNA license this summer.

That's understandable. I was only suggesting waiting of you were starting in a few months. Definitely do your licensure, start working and get some patient care experience under your belt. Good luck!

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Specializes in Med Surg, PCU, Travel.

Brand new CNA about $9/hour at a nursing home

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man-nurse2b- How many days do you work a week?

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Specializes in ED, trauma.

I've heard more for nursing homes. Hospitals are roughly $10 or $11 base pay. Nursing homes I have heard $12 or even $14 but no differentials.

This is in the central/mid Florida area. Perhaps you are in a different part of Florida?

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CP2013- Yes, I live in Naples, Fl. But I will be working in Tallahassee, Fl though since I go to school here. $12 sounds pretty good for a college student that doesnt have many bills to pay. :)

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Specializes in ED, trauma.
CP2013- Yes, I live in Naples, Fl. But I will be working in Tallahassee, Fl though since I go to school here. $12 sounds pretty good for a college student that doesnt have many bills to pay. :)

It's not shabby. I worked per diem/PRN...basically whenever they needed me, and did not take any benefits (insurance, paid days off, etc) ....if you have insurance through your parents still, this is a great option as well. Helps pad those savings, so you can get 36 hours/week now, and when you start school you can cut back to 1 or 2 days.

Best of luck :)

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Specializes in Med Surg, PCU, Travel.
man-nurse2b- How many days do you work a week?

oh I'm not a CNA, my wife was one at a LTC, she quit tho, the place that hired her started with $9, this is in the country areas of Florida close to Palatka. She tried evening shift it was hectic with 15 to 18 patients per CNA, then switched to nights but their patient load was like 15 to sometimes 21 patients on the night shift per CNA. There is no way 1 CNA can watch all those people.

For myself I was thinking about challangeing the exam after I finish my first RN semester...i.e when I get accepted. I have a few option one of which is I am also thinking to keep my current nonmedical job and go to night classes at FSCJ..I got bills and mortage to pay, being a CNA wont really cut it.

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I would HIGHLY recommend getting your CNA and trying to work in a hospital during your time in school. Even if it's one day a week, there are Managers who will allow it. First, try to get in at the places you do clinicals at. You're there, in their face, and allowinfg them to view your interest and skills. I had a much easier time getting hired as a nurse once I passed my boards than most of those that did not work as an aid or tech. I was fortunate enough to get in where I worked as a tech.

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Hello! I know that the pay greatly varies depending on where you are in the state and what kind of facility you are in. I worked as a CNA/PCT for a little while before starting nursing school and it was a great way to start learning bedside manner and how to deal with people. Even normal "people skills" don't apply in nursing because of the people's difficult situations a lot of times and there are certain ways to handle things. Most of the girls in my class were CNA's but did not continue working throughout the program.. I ended up waiting tables through school because the CNA shifts were long and stressful, but I'm glad I had the experience before. If you can make it as a CNA I believe you can make it as a nurse. CNA's are tough! Good luck in your nursing adventures! :nurse:

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