I'm so discouraged

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I have been wanting to start courses to become a CNA, but the more i research the more i find forum after forum of people saying they can't get jobs, no one will hire w/o experience, they went to school for nothing etc etc etc. Can someone fill me in? please help.

P.s. I need a job that pays at LEAST 12 bucks an hour SOON within the next 5 months, my girlfriend is having a baby and i need that. any ideas other then the CNA idea? THank you guys..

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Specializes in ICU.

You're nineteen. You need twelve bucks an hour now. You have no experience. Ever thought of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines? That's what I did. By the time I got out, I had a B.Sc., a great work history, and great experience.

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My beliefs are highly against the military :( Even though it sounds great, it just isn't an option. If i was homeless maybe..

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Specializes in ICU/Critical Care.

Against the military? They protect our country and our freedoms. I think it's commendable that any person goes into the military. You're not going to find a CNA job that will pay 12 bucks an hour right out of the gate. You are asking for something unrealistic.

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Specializes in ICU.

I see. If you were homeless, you wouldn't have such strong beliefs against the military. Well, that's what happens with most beliefs when things get tough, so I understand. Good luck finding $12 an hour.

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First of all we are getting off topic, I am not against teh people in the military, I just can't join, lets leave it at that, I am not here to debate. I am here to talk to knowledgeable people about nursing and possible jobs. thank you.

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Specializes in ICU/Critical Care.

Pay for CNAs depends on where you live, first of all. Secondly, don't expect to make 12 bucks an hour without any experience. Have you even put in any applications? DO you realize how bad the economy is and that many hospitals are putting hiring freezes on clinical support staff such as CNAs? You'll be lucky if you find a CNA job that starts at 9 or 10 bucks an hour.

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I'm not sure that I understand how this has turned into a discussion about the military.... but back to the original topic. I started out as a PCT at $12.50 an hour with no previous hospital experience at all. You have to be licensed though, or in some places have completed your first semester of an accredited nursing program, which is what I did. Five months might be pushing it so you need to make a decision and get moving with it now. Ovbiously the starting pay is going to depend on your location and what type of facility you go in to. In the mean time, perhaps you could begin looking for a job as a unit clerk to get your foot in the door at the hospital. This may help with the transition to a CNA when you complete your program. Good luck!

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Specializes in ICU/Critical Care.

You also might want to check into Central processing jobs. They clean equipment and stuff like that and make about the same amount of money as a CNA. Or if there is a housekeeping position open at any local hospital that would be a good start to get your foot in the door and it would be easier for you to transfer to a different position such a CNA.

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Thank you, what are the exact position names in which I could receive a no prior experience job?

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Specializes in ICU/Critical Care.

You could be hired at most hospitals without any experience. You'll be trained either way. Look for positions such as Nurse's aide, nursing assistant, and Central processing tech.

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So do you guys think, if i get my certification, I should be able to at least find a job at a hospital etc right? maybe not at 12 an hour but at least find a job? I just read so many people saying they went through there CNA / MA classes and no one will hire them....

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