Great job opportunity for nursing students!

[RunnerLuv]

Hey all you fellow crazy nursing students!

I am trying to spread the word for a great job opportunity for nursing students. It is a great way to make money, and get VERY good experience.

Because of the de-institutionalizing of MR/DD facilities, many states are in GREAT need for employees in MR/DD community living. Check for companies around you.

I work for a company that offers community living for adults with MR/DD, and a center for children. I am getting so much experience and am learning more than I am in my similiar position at a local hospital.

I work in regular homes in the community that are home to around 4 individuals with 1-2 staff there around the clock when they areb't in workshop. I am not a CNA, but I do so much more. I don't know the exact details, but because of the place in the system, we are trained and certified to legally do many things that CNAs cannot. In addition to the basic care cleaning, feeding, changing, we pass meds, and do g-tube feedings and med administration. Because we have small staff to client ratio, we learn the insides and out of each individual and all of their health concerns. It is such great experience. I absolutely love it. I know that working while in the program is frowned upon, but most people just have to work. Plus there is plenty of study time because once they are in bed you have free time after doing general side work tasks. If anyone is looking for a great way to get experience, I highly recommend this!

I never thought there was so much to MR/DD but I absolutely love it. I have been staff at around 7 houses and each individual is so great, and has so much to offer. I also have a house with very low functioning individuals and I just feel so good because I am helping someone have a better life. You put in a little love and you get so much in return! I have one client who is non verbal and completely immoble, but if I talk to him for about 20 minutes and rub his head, I can get a laugh or two out of him. I just love putting the time in to making these guys (and women!) feel loved!

Lisa