How to steer into the kind of CNA job I want

[Tom C]

I took an early retirement from teaching, so, shall we say, I am closer to 30 than I am 20?  🙂  I started down this road after working as a home caregiver for about 16 months.  I enjoyed many things about the work, but was not satisfied with the organization - 120 caregivers and 2 supervisors - I felt more like I was being herded than being heard.  I have completed my CNA training, passed the written and skills test (state of Washington) and now am awaiting my certification and magic number so that I can go to work.  I am seriousy considering going up one step, to be an lpn, so I want my experience to be as focused as possible.  I have already been offered one CNA position working in home care that would be about 80% housecleaning, cooking and shopping - have politely told them I will think about it, but not really interested.  My question: what can I do to help steer me into better jobs (at this point, "better" means hospital work)?  I think I would ultimately like to work in a hospital, especially in peds, though I have told that men seldom get into that department.  I am looking through the internet at courses that might help me, might enrich my skill set as well as make a statement as to what I want to do. I have already taken a course in working with veterans.  I am considering a course in medical terminology.  Are there any other courses that would be beneficial?  make me stand out in a positive sense?  I have been told that there is a agency that gives temporary assignments.  I am going to talk to them to see if they will use me, and let me sample many different environments.  What else? 

[Red Shirt 6, CNA]

For a statement that says I am interested in pediatrics I would suggest certification in developmental disabilities, and PALS. As for a hospital employer becoming a PCT would be the most helpful.  

[Stephan Mark]

Your plan to use your CNA certification as a strategic step toward becoming an LPN is excellent. Here's a shorter, direct guide to landing better hospital jobs.

Skip the housekeeping role. Prioritize jobs that offer intense clinical experience. The best path to a hospital is often through a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) or Rehab Center. You'll perform more medical tasks (vitals, catheter care, transfers), which is exactly what hospital hiring managers want to see.

Your best tactic: work with a temp agency. This is the fastest way to get inside multiple hospitals. Excelling as a temp is a proven way to get hired full-time.

Get these two certifications now: They are essential and make you stand out.

BLS (Basic Life Support) for Healthcare Providers (required for hospitals).

Medical Terminology (proves you can speak the language).

Your teaching background is a huge asset, especially for pediatrics. Don't be discouraged—a skilled, compassionate male caregiver is invaluable in any unit.

When you're ready for the next step, finding the right LPN program is key.