CNA Agencies?

The ones I know of in northern California include UNI, Star Nursing, and MGA which is the agency I work for. Agencies seem to be the perfect solution for people with changing or limited schedules. I am starting the 3rd semester of my BSN program after having worked 40+ hours a week as a CNA with the agency and they are totally cool with my limited availability during the semester.

The process entails calling them at the beginning of each week and telling them what my availability is for that week. Then on the days that I've said I'd be available they call me that morning to confirm that I am "on schedule for the shift that day" and if there is ever a cancellation or I'm not needed, they usually call me an hour or so before my shift and let me know. It takes some getting used to, not knowing if you're working until the last minute, but it's a trade off for having semi-reliable work and so much flexibility.

I am a recent graduate of a CNA program with 10 years of MA experience. So I thought the next step was a PCT position but hospitals did not without CNA experience. I didn't want to commit to a permanent CNA position but needed the experience so an agency seemed to be a good fit for my situation. I have to be honest I was skeptical at first too but did research about the agency. It turned out to be a really good choice. I was open and honest advising them it would be a temporary job as I was looking for a hospital position. I made a schedule with the shifts I wanted, the days I wanted, Showed up did my job went home that's it. For my agency the pay stubs were electronic and the pay was direct deposit. I just accepted my first hospital PCT position, gave notice at the agency, worked my last weekend for them and left with an invitation to return anytime. I liked the fact that I was not committed beyond the schedule I turned in.

Now as far as the work that is a different story. Wow was it different than school. Just remember once you see things they can never be unseen! I gained so much working with a great group of people who really cared for the patients at this facility. It was hard, confusing, and a lot of work. I am going to continue to learn the rhythm I need to succeed. Do your research on an agency. Ask friends or local schools if they use an agency rather than call one blind. My first experience was a good one with an agency. Good luck with all you do:cheeky: