Can i work as a CNA before I get my certificate?

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Hi everyone-

I am currently enrolled in the CNA program at my college which has two classes NRS 101 and NRS 103, each followed by 5 clinical sessions at the nursing home.

I have already finished the classroom of NRS 101 and have started doing clinicals. My question is-could I get hired as a CNA before I get my certificate? I don't take the test until January and I need a job before then.

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When I took my CNA class, the teacher told us that there are places that would allow you to work before being certified. As long as your certification is pending. Your pay should increase after you pass your test. Try to apply at some nursing homes.

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If you were hired in this capacity you would be working as an NA, not CNA, most likely at a lower rate of pay. In my state, facilities can hire people to work as an NA, but they must become certified within 4 months. You could find out if this is possible in your state by contacting the authority that certifies nursing assistants. Or you could ask the instructor in your class. Or you could go to nursing homes and ask if this is possible and try to get hired, if ok. Good luck with your classes.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho.

In Illinois you can work as a NA but not a CNA. What this means is you can work in a facility but can only work if there is a CNA on the unit with you. Just as people in nursing school can work at hospitals and do the same work the CNA's do, they cant legally call themselves CNA's. They are techs.

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Yes you can work as an NA your teacher should give you a paper saying your able to do certain activites, but some are restricted and you are always suppose to have a CNA with you...you aren't suppose to lift by yourself, or feed, and stuff like that...as an NA you might make less than you would as a CNA but then your pay will go up once you become certified, and I think it's 45 days to 2 months you can work as an NA in a long term facility then u have to be certified if longer..my cousin works in a assisted living and she can give insulin and stuff she never went to CNA classes so it mostly depends on where you are going to work..good luck!

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Does anyone know of any decent places to work as an NA? I am going to be starting the CNA program soon and am currently not working :sniff: and need to get a job as soon as I'm able to in nursing. I live on the north side in Ravenswood. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

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Look at the hospitals in your area. Better benefits and tuition assistance if you are planning on going on to Nursing School good luck !

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Look at the hospitals in your area. Better benefits and tuition assistance if you are planning on going on to Nursing School good luck !

Hi, I completed my CNA training in dec 2009. Currently preparing for state exam which is on 21st of jan.

I live in dallas, tx. Can i get job in hospitals without any prevous experience? I want to continue my education and want to become a RN. And,what is the starting hourly rate for new cna?

Thanks

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