Advice on getting a job in a hospital?

[FNP2B1210, MSN]

Hello everyone!

I have been a CNA for 6 months now. Currently, I am working at a medical rehab/long term care facility. The facility is one of the top nursing homes in the state and we are well known for providing excellent care. But, my goal has always been to work in a hospital and I feel it is time for me to move on and learn more about this field. I recently obtained my Bachelor's degree in Biology and within the next year I will begin my applications for PA school. I would like to get into a hospital ASAP as I would like to have hospital experience on my applications. I have been sending applications out to hospitals for about two months now and have not even received a call for an interview. I'm wondering if there is anything I can do to improve my chances? Besides having my bachelor's degree I also have about two years experience as a pharmacy technician. I'd consider myself pretty well-qualified for a hospital position yet I am having such a difficult time. I would like to know how some of you came about these positions. I've become very frustrated at this point and would appreciate any advice! Thank you!

[Missingyou, CNA]

Here are some thoughts...and they are just thoughts.

Given your resume, could it be that you are presenting yourself in a way that will make the decision makers think you are OVER qualified?

Not that you should talk down your qualifications but, maybe put (in a cover letter) your focus on your experience AS a CNA and being a care giver. What skills have you learned working in long term care that you don't typically learn in cna class? .....time management, working as a team, working under time constraints, caring for terminally ill, taking direction from other licensed professionals.......

At the same time, you can add that your goal is to become a PA in "x" amount of years, then they will know that you are serious about a position in health care.

Consider volunteering at the hospital even just one day a week. It will be a foot in the door!!

That just might cover it from all angles! :)

In the meantime keep your current position. The more experience as a LTC CNA the better!

[hookyarnandblanket]

Many hospitals look for candidates who have at least a year of experience and some look for candidates who are looking into moving on to a RN program. This is at least what I have seen in my area. Your mileage may vary according to your area.

[newuser321]

I wish I could help you but I'm in a similar boat. I'm applying to PA school this year but if I don't get in and have to reapply, I wanted to work at a hospital instead of a LTC nursing home like you do. I also think my resume is good but maybe we are overqualified (I have my bachelor's already as well). My interviewer was a little hesitant/confused about someone with a bachelor's applying for a CNA job where I currently work but she took a chance on me. Maybe hospitals don't want to take that chance since they know we won't be there for too long.