Cna???

I am applying for a CNA position but ofcourse there are classes to take before you get into the job. I was just wondering what type of things should I look out for? what is the testing like? Pretty much what does everyone think about it?

Also, I live in Michigan and was wondering if anyone new what the pay rate is for a CNA or what do other CNA's make in other states?

Thanks

i can't really say for your state as i live in new york state, i know here you do a state board testing where you have to do certain skill i think there are 18 skills total that you have to know but you only get tested on three skill(skills are things like feeding, changing their bedpans etc...) then after that you get a written exam which is basically skills and knowledge you should know as a cna.....about the pay well every state varies ...i know that where i live it ranges from $9.50 and up(i've heard of people making $17) so it totally depends on where you live and what agency/nursing home/hospital you work for

I am a CNA in Utah. The pay ranges between 8.50-9.50 per hour here (less if you work in a nursing home or LTC facility) I was certified through the red cross and the class was around $300. I was recommended to get my cna certification from my academic advisor because I was interested in nursing and doing this gives you a better picture of what nurses do (rather than ER he he he). I really love it! Some of the main skills you will learn are bathing, feeding, dressing, taking vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, etc.), isolation precautions, Imput and Output measurements, weights, turning patients, technique in transferring patients and making beds (so you don't injure your back), etc. Also when I found a job, I was also trained to read telemetry and do dressing changes.

After you finish the class you need to take a state exam which isn't too hard as long as you've paid attention in class. :) Then after you pass and are ready to look for work, you need to register with the health care dept. (a government requirement that was later taken back but I don't know if it's just a Utah thing...) It's not so much about the money as the experience you gain.

Keely