Should I Get a CNA Before Nursing School?
Pros and cons of CNA certification before starting nursing school.
CNA before nursing school is common advice. Worth examining what you're paying for.
Pros
Hospital exposure (find out if nursing is for you before tuition). Income during school. Resume builder. Many programs require some CNA-level coursework anyway.
Cons
Cost ($500-2000) and time (4-12 weeks). Some material redundant with nursing fundamentals.
Honest take
If you've never worked in healthcare, get the CNA. Hospital exposure validates the path. If you've already done healthcare work (medical assistant, EMT), skip and start nursing school.
Frequently asked
Schools require CNA?
Some do. Check program prerequisites.
Quick check
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