Can an RN in Maryland work as a CNA?

scrub<3 · Sep 5, 2009

Would you mind telling us what school you graduated from? I am currently a pre-nursing student and I was hearing that most students have jobs lined up even before they graduated from nursing school so it's a bit shocking to hear that you as a recent new grad don't have a job.

MissBrittanyRN · Sep 5, 2009

I graduated from Chesapeake College. I have talked to several new grads in MD and employment for them is about 50/50. Most of the people that I know who have jobs did in fact have them lined up before graduation. I unfortunately put my eggs in one basket - my choice hospital, where I have worked for almost 3 years as a tech, but they did not take new grads. My mistake that I definiately have learned from. I wish the best of luck to you through nursing school, and I'm sure you will do fine with your job search, just make sure you do not make my mistake!

Jules A, MSN · Sep 5, 2009

Unfortunately a few years ago it was my experience as a LPN trying to get my foot in the door with L&D as a tech that the MBON will not allow you to work below your scope of practice. Definitely get a hold of them to get the final word. You may need to go over the bridge or check out LTC for jobs on the Eastern shore. Good luck.

Daria88 · Sep 12, 2009

Traditionally, it has been true that according to the MBON, a licensed/registered nurse can not work outside of that practice. However, recently, due to budget cuts at local hospitals, modifications have been made to that rule. I know that at BWMC, many new grads (RNs) were given jobs within the hospital as PCTs with the understanding that when the hospital budget opens up, they will transition into the RN role.

I think that it is a general rule that can be modified if a particular institution applies to the MBON.

MissBrittanyRN · Sep 12, 2009

Thanks Daria! I emailed a few more people at the MBON last night, asking where I can find specific written info on this matter, and will post exactly what they tell me (if I'm successful at getting it out of them this time :-) But your answer was pretty much what I was looking for. I live fairly close to BWMC, and will try contacting them about possible opportunities. Thanks again!

Brittany

MissBrittanyRN · Sep 14, 2009

thank you everyone. i got my answer from the maryland board of nursing.

this is the exact reply that i received via email: "[color=#000]registered nurses are not prohibited from working in a position as a cna when the registered nurse has been issued the certification as a cna from the mbon".

i hope that helps anyone else who has been looking into the matter, particularly new grad rn's working for alternative positions! however, certain facilities may prevent it, but at least we know it's possible.

CASTLEGATES · Oct 12, 2009

I can't find a job and I've been in nursing for a while.... been out for 3 years so that screwed things all up. Desperate now! Never had to look for a job like this before. Been 2 months looking so far and nothing!

MissBrittanyRN · Oct 12, 2009

Good luck castlegates. At least now you know you do have more options to get your foot in the door, as far as taking a tech/cna position. Unfortunately, although we know it's legal, I have been having a tough time actually getting hired as one, and I know that I am qualified, because I have experience. I do have something lined up, but I worked as a tech at that hospital in the exact same position, so basically they are just giving it back, not pursuing a new hire. But again, at least we now know that it is possible.