I am curious. I completed a program for my MA back in 2003 in high school, completed a Phlebotomy program, and later completed and did the boards for my CNA. However, clinical experience wise-other than internships-I don't have much experienced. I'm currently not licensed for my MA (I was told back then the boards were optional), however, I did work a Medical Assistant based position at a Radiologist office. Mainly front desk, calling in prescriptions, etc. It just had a different title but I was hired based on my MA background. I never got my phlebotomy certification and as for the my CNA license, I need to renew. I tried several times to find work as a CNA in Florida and two other states (VA and NY) I lived prior to moving here without much luck. Work was pretty to difficult to get during the recession as we all know. Most places I've tried to go to out here are looking for one year CNA experience. So my question is, what can I do to obtain part-time employment as a CNA. I was even looking into PCT jobs also since I have my CNA and my MA but just don't know if I just don't have the experience they are looking for and wasting my time. Right now I'm applying for an lpn program to start in October and currently work for the Case Management department at my current job at a Medicare Advantage insurance company (which I will still keep). Any suggestions or advice would help. Thank you.

Can't help you with the area (Florida). But I can tell you as long as you have CNA (at least a year) experience a hospital will consider you. They will teach you the extra things you need like catheter insertion/removal, EKGs, glucose testing, and anything specific to that hospital. Apply for all the open positions for PCTs if you are applying for a hospital because different HR personnel deal with different postings and if one over looks you the next person may not. Good luck. Make sure you are CPR certified and that your CNA certificate is up to date before you apply.

I'm in the Florida area, and it was extremely tough for myself personally to find a job in this field. I remember I would get home from class and spend hours upon hours filling out those grueling hospital applications that want to know your entire life history. I will suggest online Job Boards like indeed.com and keep checking here as well, you honestly never know who or what you will run into one day. My job is in North Florida area but I can't disclose it due to the strict policy guidelines about "social media" in my workplace. I do also want to say that my job hired me solely off the fact that I was interested in the field, was willing to go through extensive training, and also had completed my A.A. degree and have now scheduled an time to sit for the CNA exam. It is hard to find a job right now, and even that much harder to find a decent paying good one with benefits and such. I say if you really feel like you could be a CNA/MA then go for every position you find and don't let up on these places until you get something. Many of the colleagues I have worked with in this field dislike their position for one reason or another and decide to leave and you need to be available when something like that happens, or at least have your application on file. Also, I would suggest this (but don't force it if it seems to be an uncomfortable situation) is to directly call a nurse manager on a floor/unit you might be interested in. One of my girlfriends did this and she actually got a position because she was interested and aggressive. Don't give up because there are jobs out there and good luck!

Thank you! I actually know how to do catheter insertion/removal, EKG's, and glucose testing. A little rusty at the first two though. I have my CPR and AED cert through my current job and the only thing is renewing my CNA license. I don't, however, have hospital experience which of course is my concern because everywhere wants experience but I felt I should start somewhere. I plan to do that this week. Especially after going through one of the application and of course they ask for license numbers, dates, etc. I been trying on an off to get a PCT position but wasn't aggressive with it but thought it would be good experience and decent enough income. Thanks for your advice, I appreciate it!

It's tough out in Florida in general but I have faith that something will work out. I work in an office setting right now, so that is one of the reasons why I'm pushing to do more clinical. I am applying for an LPN program out here and felt this would be good experience and a good way to keep a foot in the door. Also, to have extra income. I'm a single parent and things are a bit of stretch. I've always wanted the opportunity to work in the hospital and have tried for years. I've gotten offers before in the other state I lived in but due to circumstances wasn't able to work there as a PCT. I hope something comes through but nothing beats a failure than a try. I think what your friend did was actually a pretty good idea, I need to try that. I know some contacts at the hospitals out here through my current job, maybe I can try them and see what they say possibly. Thanks again.

Well I got my CNA license renewed. Just currently applying. I tried Fl Hospital for PCT and immediately got shot down the next day. It is all good. I am going to keep trying. I believe something will come around soon. :-)