Can a no-job RN work as a CNA??

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I am a new grad, graduated on Dec '09 and just passed my nclex few weeks ago. I have had no luck with the job search, so much so that I haven't even got a call back from 50 places (close to, I guess) I had applied. Now, I am thinking of working as a CNA (although I don't have a certificate), and was wondering whether an RN can work as a CNA in the state of colorado? Is it me or the tough market?? This is really making me depressed and being an inernational student, I was granted a year of work authorization but I guess half the year is gone looking for a job. I don't know how to explain to my parents, this is just the lowest point in my life right now.

I think when they said theres a nursing shortage, they should have emphasized and made it clear that its only relevant for the "experienced nurses" and the rest of us with no-experience doesn't even stand a chance. Maybe then, I would not have been misleaded or prepared myself for the worst.

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I am an RN working as a CNA in PA. I have been unable to find RN work in 2 years. The only reason I am still in healthcare is because McDonalds isnt hiring. I regret going into this 9 yrs ago...lots of loans to pay, constant unemployment...pure hell, bad idea...a good deed never goes unpunished. First job I can get out of healthcare and I am there.

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How can that be possible unless you live in an area of pa that is remote with only like one hospital and sporifice population or other factors exist that you haven't told us. That's seems very unusual please tell us more. Where have you been looking for the past 9 years. Your getting me nervous as I embark on the job hunting trail.

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Specializes in M/S Short Stay/TCU.

i am praying very hard that we all find jobs.... I have applied everywhere as well...

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I am an RN working as a CNA in PA. I have been unable to find RN work in 2 years. The only reason I am still in healthcare is because McDonalds isnt hiring. I regret going into this 9 yrs ago...lots of loans to pay, constant unemployment...pure hell, bad idea...a good deed never goes unpunished. First job I can get out of healthcare and I am there.

You've been looking for an RN job for two years? Are you able to move to another area of the country? Even if it's temporary? You just need to get that one year experience, then you could probably find work in PA.

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In florida you can in Home Health care you just work as a CNA with CNA pay. The agency I work for does this

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How can that be possible unless you live in an area of pa that is remote with only like one hospital and sporifice population or other factors exist that you haven't told us. That's seems very unusual please tell us more. Where have you been looking for the past 9 years. Your getting me nervous as I embark on the job hunting trail.

It is hard to find a job. 9 years is crazy, but no RN has to look for a job for that long. Only 2 years, the license will be expired. It's a race to the finish line. Get an RN job before the time runs out.

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I am also a new grad, passed nclex in Dec. 09 and still nothing. But, I just got a call from a recruiter that works for Pediatric Services of America (PSA). Look them up they are all over the states and are hiring new grads and will train. I am very excited and even though it is not what I ideal for myself, it is a step in the right direction. I live near Tampa and hospitals are even screening for nurse fairs. They don't want New Grads.

Good Luck and I hope this info helps.

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Specializes in M/S Short Stay/TCU.
I am also a new grad, passed nclex in Dec. 09 and still nothing. But, I just got a call from a recruiter that works for Pediatric Services of America (PSA). Look them up they are all over the states and are hiring new grads and will train. I am very excited and even though it is not what I ideal for myself, it is a step in the right direction. I live near Tampa and hospitals are even screening for nurse fairs. They don't want New Grads.

Good Luck and I hope this info helps.

I was looking at their website PSA and I will look into it. Let me know how it works out for you... Good Luck:)

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Specializes in Med Surg, ICU, home&pub health, pvt duty.
I am a new grad, graduated on Dec '09 and just passed my nclex few weeks ago. I have had no luck with the job search, so much so that I haven't even got a call back from 50 places (close to, I guess) I had applied. Now, I am thinking of working as a CNA (although I don't have a certificate), and was wondering whether an RN can work as a CNA in the state of colorado? Is it me or the tough market?? This is really making me depressed and being an inernational student, I was granted a year of work authorization but I guess half the year is gone looking for a job. I don't know how to explain to my parents, this is just the lowest point in my life right now.

Yes. Check with the Board of RN in Cali. From memory, yes. You should be able to work as an LVN or CNA...check.

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GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!

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Anyone out there needing a job as a new grad, here is a very valuable piece of advice:

Nursing Homes (make sure you research the best in your state; send a resume by email; do a follow-up call)

Wellness Clinics by the Visiting Nurse's Association (they are all over the United States)

There are other agencies out there who will hire new grads for wellness clinics but I highly recommend the VNA; maybe they will eventually hire you for other positions as well (speculation of course, but could happen).

This will get you your one year of experience which most hospitals require and then you can apply for the job that you really want, if you haven't fallen in love with your current job, of course. : )

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