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Discussion

Do I have to work in LTC?

I am starting a CNA class in a week while I wait for a spot to open up at a local school for their LVN or RN class. I decided to take the CNA class becuase I have no background int he health care industry and felt the CNA cert and experiance would look good on a resume.

I would like to work as a CNA when I complete the cert but I do not want to work in LTC. I dont mind doing my clinicals there but to based my income on it....nope, cant do it.

Is it possible for a new CNA grad to get a job in an area other then LTC? Or shoudl I just complete the cert and just do admin work while I wait for a LVN or RN spot to open.

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    You can get a job working in home health if an agency or an individual will hire you. To this end, getting the Home Health Aide certificate in addition to the CNA certificate would be helpful. You can also get a job working in an acute care hospital, but these jobs are harder to obtain.

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    You may be able to get a job at your local hospital. I know most hospitals only have few, if any CNA jobs, and the job responsibilities would probably be about the same but with all age groups that are in the hospital. You can also ask your CNA instructor and they should be able to help you out. Most jobs depend on the area you live in. Good luck!

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    Are you saying you already have a non-healthcare job that pays better than LTC? If so then just keep it. It is easier for new CNAs to get jobs in LTC than any other setting. You could try working per diem at an LTC facility for the experience without the commitment.

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    Pretty much all hospitals need CNAs. I applied to many acute care hospitals and got multiple job offers

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    It's possible to get a job in areas other than LTC, but in some areas it is very difficult as a new CNA.

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    When I got my CNA certification, I started working in a Med/Surg Unit. It gave me a diverse pool of patients with a variety of illnesses. I was able to perfect my role as a CNA and interact with Nurses, who taught me tons of information! Long Term Care is okay, but if you plan on becoming a nurse in the near future, I suggest for you actually start in a hospital, not a Nursing Home.

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    Working in LTC just for a spell can open doors for you,especially in a hospital setting. Most hospitals I know want some experience in a healthcare setting,so like @caliotter3 said also try for home health. Thats a great start because you are working with only a few patients at a time. Im in the same boat as you,my classes start next week and looking to head straight into a hospital as a PCT,but if that doesnt work out,I dont mind working in rehab or LTC. Try looking up jobs in your area and see what they are looking for,you never know,one may give you that opportunity! Good Luck 2 You :)

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