CNA to be

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Hello, I am 15 1/2 years old taking sunday only classes to become a CNA. I have always wanted to be a nurse and am very interested in the field. I will be taking the state test when I m 16- which is allowed by california laws. I did not go into this with the intention of a job before i'm 18 at all because i know that there is a slim- none chance anyone will hire me, but i was curious if there are opportunities such as volunteering, or taking blood pressures at blood drives, or anything else that I could do being only 16 (when i have my certification). Any input or comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.

-Alexis

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Specializes in 6 yrs LTC, 1 yr MedSurg, Wound Care.

If state law allows, I don't see any reason why you couldn't get a job. Part time at a NH. I'm sure you could be a sitter or something in the evenings. You could probably pick up a few clients in home health. Again, I don't know about the laws, but we have posters in our break room at work about minors only working so many hours per week and a designated amount of breaks.

Just call around to see if anyone is hiring, go fill out an application. Just like the rest of us. Good luck!!

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Congrats on WANTING to work! you are setting yourself up to be a successful young adult with that attitude. You have the right idea with brainstorming all the different volunteer, etc. opportunities. You will also have a little advantage over others when or if you ever apply to nursing school in the future. Best of Luck to you!!

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I wonder if any of the summer camps that have nurses on staff would be willing to have a teen intern? Just an idea.

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yeah...she can also look into being a junior counselor for summer camps for kids with disabilities,diseases, etc. I know American Academy of Dermatology does them all over country, and i'm sure their hundreds of others

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I think the idea of applying around at nursing homes despite your age is a good idea. As long as you are legally able to work and put together a good application (for a "newbie"), you stand a chance. You can apply for part time work that won't interfere with school. Just be sure you can realistically balance your time, including homework and fun time.

And even if you don't get any work, having some experience with applying for jobs can be immensely helpful. "The job search" requires a set of skills that can be developed over time.

Other than that, yes, there are many volunteer opportunities for working in health care. Check with local health-related organizations and facilities. Have you considered possibly applying for volunteer positions that don't necessarily "require" the CNA training? The training may still help you, and any experience in the field is helpful. Hospitals often take volunteers on an ongoing basis.

Good luck! :)

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I'm 17 and just got hired at a NH without even having an interview.

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