Can I work as a PCA/CNA after graduation (while searching for RN residency)?

[twentysomething]

Hi everyone,

I was just wondering if hospitals will consider me for PCA or CNA jobs if I've passed my NCLEX? I ask because although I hope to get a RN position asap, I still need some means of paying the bills, and figured that PCA work is something I can do. Will they deem you overqualified? How about pier diem PCA work?

Unfortunately, my nursing program did not mention nurse externships at all; I was wondering if externships/internships are available for new grads too?

Any information on what "A new grad can do" for work (while searching for an RN position) will help -

Thanks!

[PediLove2147, BSN, RN]

I know at the hospital I work those who have passed the NCLEX are not considered for a PCA job. Even those who have worked there during school are only given 4 months to find a RN job, talk about pressure!

I am sure it is not like that everywhere so I would look around. Just be ready for similar situations. It's all about liability..

[Bobbkat]

I think you are technically allowed, but most hospitals are leery of hiring someone for a position that they know they will bail from the minute they find an RN position. This is what I was told, at least. It's one thing if you were already working in the position, but it's different if you are applying and already are an RN.

[Busybusybee123]

Hi Pedilove,

Is the 4 month limit set by the hospital, or is that a law? I've heard different things, and I'm concerned about my own PCA position

Thank you

[twentysomething]

Thanks for the replies everyone :)

Busybusybee123 - I say talk to your Nurse Manager to be sure! :) Goodluck.

[PediLove2147, BSN, RN]

Hi Pedilove,

Is the 4 month limit set by the hospital, or is that a law? I've heard different things, and I'm concerned about my own PCA position

Thank you

It is a hospital policy, a very new one at that. To be honest I don't even know if they are enforcing it.

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

1. Check with your state BON. Some states won't let RNs work as CNAs. However they may be able to work in unlicensed positions...

2. Many employers won't hire RNs as aides/CNAs because they know the minute you get a RN job you will quit, and they don't want to waste the time and money training you if they know you won't stay.

3. And some employers won't hire RNs as aides/CNAs becuase of liability issues.

[turnforthenurse, MSN, NP]

I know at my hospital and in my state you cannot work as a PCA/CNA once you have passed the NCLEX because technically you are already licensed as an RN.

You could try working as a unit secretary or something, or teach CPR classes?

[goodstudentnowRN]

This is sad...I was told this too in Florida.. I cannot work as a CNA because I passed my boards. I applied once and did not mention that I was an RN and the recruiter was very angry...She said that it is dishonesty...Go figure!

[elkpark]

This is sad...I was told this too in Florida.. I cannot work as a CNA because I passed my boards. I applied once and did not mention that I was an RN and the recruiter was very angry...She said that it is dishonesty...Go figure!

Umm ... it is dishonesty. If you're a new grad you may not be aware of this (do nursing schools not teach this stuff any more??), but licensure is a legal issue/responsibility and a big deal in healthcare. Most healthcare employers consider omitting/withholding information from an application or resumé to be the same as providing false information (lying), and grounds for disqualification as an applicant (or to fire you if you've already been hired when they find out).

Best wishes for the job-hunting. I know these are difficult times, but you will find that honesty is always the best policy in nursing. Anything else is likely to come back and bite you in the butt (often when you least expect it).

[goodstudentnowRN]

I learn my lesson and I will not let it happen again.