LTC CNA experience for hospital employment?

[CAAMSE]

It seems pretty difficult, if not impossible, to get hired as a new CNA/PCA at a hospital unless you have at least a year of prior direct patient care experience. So is it safe to say that you have to work in long term care (i.e. nursing home or assisted living) first -- where it's easier to get hired as a new CNA grad -- before ever getting hired at a hospital?

[lalopop86]

Not necessarily. I received my CNA in April and got a job at a local hospital in June. I was floored and couldn't believe it, but it can happen!

[CAAMSE]

Not necessarily. I received my CNA in April and got a job at a local hospital in June. I was floored and couldn't believe it, but it can happen!

Congratulations!! That's fantastic. Did you have any other prior patient care experience at all, aside from your CNA clinicals?

[lalopop86]

Thanks! I definitely lucked out. I had a little bit of public health experience, but not much. I hope you can get in at a hospital, I absolutely love my job! Good luck.

[rose2012]

lalopop86, where do you live? I know the job market can depend on location.

I'm in the same boat as CAAMSE.

[lalopop86]

I'm in NC

[rose2012]

Thanks, that helps to know.

I'm in California.

Today I got an interview for a job I applied for last night at a home health agency.

It pays only $11/hour, but my friend thinks I should go for it, thinking that whatever experience I get will help me for other jobs.

Thoughts, anyone?

[Weezy24]

hey lalopop86 I am in NC and I recently got hired by a hospital . I think I lucked out too. A great manager saw my resume and was willing to give me a chance. I start in 2 weeks. I am very excited. How is it working in a hospital? I would love to know your experience.

[Weezy24]

I think your friend is right. Any experience to get your foot in the door is helpful when you are starting out. You can then move up or move on to better opportunities armed with your experience. Good luck :)

[rose2012]

Thanks!

[CAAMSE]

Weezy24 and lalopop86 - just curious, how many hospital jobs did you apply for before you finally got yours, and what units/shifts did you get? Also, what is the starting wage at a hospital, compared to a LTC facility (at least where you are)?

rose2012 - I agree...it sounds like we have to work our way up!

Thanks for all the great info!

[Weezy24]

I started applying on the very last day of last year and got this call on the 6th of January. My interview was on the 12th and I found out the following Monday. I have to say I was expecting a long job search and infact I applied only to hospitals initially and got some rejections from one particular one right away. So, this job was a good example of being at the right place at the right time. I wish you guys lots of luck. Do keep applying, a good manager will definitely look at your resume soon!