Can CNAs work one 12h shift a week?

Editorial Team / Moderator · Jul 1, 2018

You would have to check with your local hospitals to see what they offer. If you obtain a job that is not full-time, then yes, there would be fewer shifts per week. Good luck!

Sour Lemon · Jul 1, 2018

I am a nursing student interested in working as a CNA. I would only like to work one (12 hour) shift a week so that I can devote most of my time to my classes. Is this possible for hospitals to work CNAs only one shift per week? Or, what is the usual work schedule for CNAs who are nursing students?

It's possible, but as a new employee, you're less likely to get your choice of schedules. Hospital jobs (as opposed to nursing homes) are also more competitive positions for CNAs. As someone new to the field with a restricted schedule, you may not be the chosen candidate.

If you live in an area that's not saturated with new graduate nurses, you might find a hospital willing to hire you and accommodate you with the hope that you'll stay on as a nurse after graduation.

Good luck!

babeinboots, MSN, NP, CNM · Jul 1, 2018

Yes, apply for a per diem position at the hospitals. I did this during nursing school and was only obligated to one shift a week but could pick up more hours if I wanted to. It worked out perfectly. I could work less and focus on school if it was a difficult class or a big test coming up but still work full time when my school schedule allowed.

Like a previous poster mentioned, these positions are often very competitive but you can't be considered if you don't apply. Good luck!

verene, MSN · Jul 1, 2018

Yes, it is possible, but the jobs may or may not be available at the time you are applying. You may find a set-schedule low hour/week job or you may have better luck working per-diem if you need a flexible schedule and low hours.

Be forewarned that hospital CNA jobs in some locations can be extremely competitive, and that as a new CNA & new employee your preference of schedule may not be accommodated. You may have better luck finding a part-time job in an assisted living facility or nursing home. (Particularly if you are willing to work nights/evenings/weekends)

RNperdiem, RN · Jul 1, 2018

If you are willing to work per diem, and maybe staff in the float pool, you can work one day a week. It helps if the shift you want is on a night, weekend or any time they need people the most.

KelRN215, BSN, RN · Jul 1, 2018

Per diem is the only way it would work anywhere I've worked. Permanent positions required 20 hrs/week minimum.

Long Term Care Columnist / Guide · Jul 1, 2018

I worked casual as a hospital CNA when I was in nursing school. I usually worked weekend nights, and then I did full-time hours during breaks. It was definitely a worthwhile venture.

Aunt Slappy · Jul 1, 2018

Just look for places hiring for PRN.

chacha82, ADN, BSN · Jul 2, 2018

I did. Look for a PRN or float position. Towards the end of school I worked more, but the first two semesters I only worked once a week.

RNNPICU, BSN, RN · Jul 2, 2018

Depends on what you are hired for. For example... you cannot apply for a full time position and then tell them you can only wokr one shift a week. There are part time positions, but you would need to ask them and see what is available.

KarenMS · Jul 3, 2018

I worked one 8 hour shift a week as a CNA at the hospital through school. (I also had another PRN job at another facility, but just saying it's possible to find a low commitment job)