Getting a hospital job

Hello! This is my first post here, and I just wanted to say thanks to all of you. This website has been so helpful to me.

I am in the process of getting my CNA certification through the Red Cross. I'm hoping to get a job in a hospital. Even though I still have a little over a month of training to finish, I've started applying to some hospitals. The thing is, I live in Boston and I've read that it is really hard to get a job as a CNA, especially with no prior experience. I've looked into another Red Cross program about an hour away that provides acute care training once you get your CNA certification. I'd like this to be my last option, as I don't think I could handle the commute while going to school full-time.

I know some people have mentioned calling the HR departments or going to them in person. What should I say when I call/visit? Who should I ask to speak to? I'm just really unsure of how to go about doing this. If it helps, I'm already an employee at one of the major hospitals in Boston as part of a clinical research facility.

Thanks to all of you wonderful people!