CNA classes??

[Glimmer]

I really am not sure where to post this but thought that maybe someone here could help me out.

I just finished all my pre-reqs for my local nursing program and will apply for admission into the program starting fall 06. I would like to take a CNA course though and start working in the hospital environment before getting into nursing school.

Here's the problem... I dont know how to go about finding a CNA program. I have tried calling some places but really am not sure where else to look. The local hospitals have been no help.I would call the nursing program but of course campus is closed for the holidays. I guess if nothing else I can wait until after the break.

If anyone knows how to go about finding a CNA program in the hampton roads area of Virginia I would appreciate it :)

Alnee

[vampiregirl, BSN, RN]

Try calling local nursing homes. Around where I live, the nursing homes offer CNA classes at no charge and often a job offer with successful completion of the class. In fact, I got paid during the clinical portion of my CNA class. The nursing home I work for also paid for the testing fee. You could always get your CNA cert, work at the nursing home for a while and then transfer to a hospital. This way, you would already have some experience and professional references. Good luck!

[mollysn]

The hospital where I work offers a nursing assistant class. Hospitals often hiring nursing students with no training to work as nursing assistants. Good Luck!

[Glimmer]

Thanks guys!

I think I found a program. I finally found a link that brought up the NA teaching facilities on the virginia board of nursing website. I am calling to day and will hopefully be able to go and pick up an application.

The local hospitals around here will only hire nursing students after they have completed the first semester of clinicals or if they are CNAs...

Thanks for the help :)

Alnee

[HyperRNRachel]

The hospital where I work offers a nursing assistant class. Hospitals often hiring nursing students with no training to work as nursing assistants. Good Luck!

This is a good idea. I worked as a Professional Student Nurse (PSN). I was basically a tech but was also able to do various other skills that I had been checked off on during clinical as a student. The experience I gained is priceless.