You'll need to be mindful of your scope of practice while you are working as a CNA while going to school for your RN.  You may have co-workers who are tempted to let you do things that you are not allowed to do because it will be beyond your legal scope of practice.  While it may be tempting to do some of these skills, DON'T!!!  You can jeopardize your chance at being a nurse before you even get your license. 

The training you receive in your RN program may make you more aware of what is going on with the patients you care for as a CNA.  You'll begin to notice more subtle changes or problems that may occur and be able to provide your charge nurse with better information to help him or her provide better nursing care.  Take advantage of the knowledge and experience of the nurses you work with while you're attending school; you can also use your experiences as a CNA to enhance your knowledge while you're studying for your RN because you'll be seeing some of these very things while you're working.

You'll also recognize that the "real world" is much different than the "text book/school world".  You'll see things being done in practice that you will be learning about in school that aren't "right" or not exactly the best way to do things - don't overstep and correct - trust me - it will backfire.  But be mindful of those things and remember that when you begin your career as a nurse.

I've been an LPN for 12 years and I'm going back now for my RN.  I've had the opportunity to work in different states where my scope of practice has been different in each state so I've had opportunities to do things that some LPNs have not.  But when I'm at work as an LPN it is imperative that I keep in mind what I am legally able to do as an LPN, even though I am doing more things in my clinical rotations as a RN student. 

If you are unsure what your scope of practice is, check out your state board website or call your governing body.  Again - always remember what your scope of practice is as a CNA while you're going to school - you'll be doing those other skill soon enough when you finish your RN program!

Good luck!