where can cna's work?

[pristy]

I start a CNA program in Aug. I am planning on starting nursing school next year and want to work as CNA for experience until then. From reading on this board it looks like most CNA's work in LTC or nursing homes, but if I want the experience for nursing wouldn't it be better to be in a hospital setting? Has anyone out there worked in a different area as a CNA? I was hoping working now would help me to know better which area of nursing I prefer.

[L&Dnurse2Be]

You can work in hospitals and home health as well. Sometimes hospitals use different names for CNA's such as PCT (patient care tech), CA (clinical assistant). It took me a while to know which jobs to apply for. I love working in the hospital. It has given me a lot of experience in patient care and dealing with families. Good luck in your class! :)

[Cute_CNA, CNA]

I work at a psychiatric hospital.

Good luck!

[SeekingChange]

I've heard of a CNA working for a pharmaceutical testing company. I just don't know how common it is. :uhoh21:

[MissJoRN, RN]

I did LTC- regular and elder psych as a CNA...took a short detour as a vet tech...then home health where I did short and long shifts either in private homes or in facilities as a private duty. I also had choices of adult and pedi cases as a CNA/HHA. Loved it! I considered working as a hospital aide while in nursing school but couldn't take the pay cut...at least not for an increased pt load and decreased skill level.

Lots of opportunitites for an ambitious CNA...and I actually got some much deserved respect!

Good Luck!