California Foster Care and RN

elkpark · Mar 20, 2006

I can't speak specifically to California, but I've been a child psych CNS for a long time and have worked closely with the foster care system in a few different states over the years -- by virtue of having clients who were kids who happened to be in foster care; I did not work for or in the foster care system of those states.

I've never encountered (or even heard of) a nurse working for any of the foster care systems with which I've had experience -- foster care is typically run by the state Department of Social Services (different actual names in different states), and the staff are usually social workers. Foster care is not considered healthcare, so I'm not sure what you expect they would employ nurses to do.

I'm not saying that it's impossible you could ever get a job in foster care, but it would certainly not be a common, ordinary thing.

peaceful · Mar 21, 2006

Elkpark,

Thanks for replying, that was helpful.

lynnr_98, BSN, MSN, RN · Mar 23, 2006

I worked as a PHN for the Foster Care program in Los Angeles County. As far as I know, every county in California hires PHN's for their Foster Care programs which means you have to have your BSN and PHN certificate. The jobs are listed under each county's public health nurse job postings, which is why you're not finding any "RN" jobs in foster care.

The foster care program is actually called the Health Care Program for Children in Foster Care and you work alongside the social workers. When I worked there (2002 & 2003) it was strictly an adminstrative job (no hands on allowed). We basically just sat in our cubicles entering health information into the computer for all the foster children under our caseloads. We also made referrals to other programs depending on their health needs and followed up on abnormal medical/dental exam findings. The pay was pretty good, we had every other Friday off (worked a 9/80 schedule) and the job was very low stress. Let me know if you have anymore questions!

peaceful · Mar 24, 2006

lynnr 98, thank you for taking the time to respond. I will research job openings differently. Currently i have a BSN but not PH certificate. The idea of having every other Friday off sounds wonderful. Also seeking lower stress job from hospital 12 hr day environment. Have always had an interest in children and teens struggling with conditions such as homelessness or parents with addiction problems. Wonder if they would consider hiring me with BSN only? Absolutely necessary to have PH certificate? Appreciate your information so much.

iluvmynavyman · Apr 11, 2006

being an ex foster child i always remember nurses being around i think you should try private foster agencys

HarryPotter · Apr 12, 2006

Hi.

Check out www.sdcounty.ca.gov . I work for the County and I know for a fact that they have Public Health and Foster Care openings.

San DIego is a great place to live.

Harry