Will working as a CNA during nursing school help me get a job?

[mysticpenguin]

I keep reading / hearing about all these new grads who can't get jobs because they have no experience. Some of my fellow students are getting certified as CNAs during our next intersession (after Finals next week) and plan on working as CNAs to get a "leg up." My question is -- will working as a CNA actually translate to the experience employers are looking for? I am currently working as a waitress and my employer has been soooo super flexible with me around my ever-changing school schedule, and I'd rather not leave a job that's working out so well to pursue a CNA unless it'll actually help me in the future.

Thoughts???

[guiltysins]

It depends on your luck. Yes CNA work is a health related job but you're not working as a nurse. Of course any experience is good experience but there aren't any guarantees. Your best bet is if you're a good CNA, the hospital you work out like you and if they have any RN positions when you graduate they will offer you a shot, but you shouldn't expect it.

[DolceVita, ADN, BSN, RN]

I have heard yes and no to this. Which is frustrating. CNA is not a nurse therefore not the experience wanted (which is true). Then other people saying you have a better chance if you worked as a CNA because of the experience.

It can't hurt...can it?

[caliotter3]

It depends partly on what you are looking for and expecting. Two long term care facilities that I worked at as a CNA hired me as a nurse. Glad and happy? You bet. The hospitals wouldn't acknowledge my existence.