Which do you recommend, a CNA or an EMT for someone seeking experience in the medical profession?
Asked by <3
I want to gain some experience in the medical profession...I am working on my undergraduate degree, majoring in biology pre-med and english. I am a full time student so if I get my CNA or EMT I have to take it during the summer months. Is one better than the other as far as the amount of experience gained? Which, if either can be completed during the summer months? And if you have any other ideas besides these feel free to add them...thanks!

Best Answer:
If you have the time and money, DEFINTELY EMT. Don't even consider a CNA position unless you have no choice, or you are also considering nursing. The nursing model of care is completely different from the medical model of care, and if medicine is your bag, don't bother with a CNA course if you can help it. An EMT position will give you valuable emergency care experience and patient care experience more on a medical level. As a CNA, you will mostly be providing basic care to patients, such as bathing, wiping bottoms (peri care), feeding, etc. While I suggest that people who are unsure if they want to go into nursing should try being a CNA, I definitely do NOT suggest it if you are sure that you want to go into medicine. It is unlikely that you will be happy with that job, or as happy as you would being an EMT. If any of the school's in your area offer PT studies in Respiratory Therapy or MRI technology for example, or you are willing to take some time off to complete a diploma first, this is another option. Good luck!
Also a pre-med student in your exact boat. Am currently taking a condensed 2 year LPN diploma PT (LPNs where I live have diploma status), and absolutely HATE the nursing model of care and nursing. I prefer the medical model of care. Currently trying to see if I can switch into a tech program instead so I can work at the local university hospital to help pay for school and get experience.
Answered by reginachick22

Here in NY State, EMTs have a much longer training period than that for a CNA. CNAs probably can get a job more easily and yes, the summer would be enough time for that training. EMTs are often volunteers in a lot of small communities, or part of the Fire Dept. in most larger cities and they can make decent money, if hired. It's a lot more work and you are going to all sorts of calls. A CNA works in either a hospital, or home care or nursing home. It's not as stressful.
Answered by Bunnee

It really depends on what kind of experience you need. I know that you can get EMT trained in 6-8 weeks, im not sure about CNA. EMT's work some crappy hours for low wages, but the experience with Emergency Medical care on scene is priceless. Very few nurses now what its like stabilizing and treating a Patient while cutting them out of their car on a rainy freeway, or working a full arrest back to life before you even get to the hospital. I love EMS, so i would recommend EMT
Answered by BobbyUSMC