Once I get RN licensure, can I still work as a CNA?

U.S.A. Minnesota

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Hi everyone,

I am graduating soon with my RN and hope to take the NCLEX at the beginning of June here in MN. I don't have a job lined up yet, but have some possibiliites. I am currently working as a CNA in a privately owned LTC facility, and would like to keep working there until I get closer to starting a RN job this summer. I would like to keep working there after I get my licensure, to fill the gap until I begin a RN position.

I remember one of my instructors telling us that once we are licensed as RNs here, we cannot work in a position designated as a CNA, because we will be licensed as RNs. I don't know if she was talking about hospitals, LTC, or both. I'm concerned that I will have to quit my job sooner than I would like to, because of this issue. I tried contacting HR at my work, but haven't gotten a response. Does anyone have any insight?

Thanks!

Gastro

You have experience from your work in the UK. Agencies are more likely to recognize your experience as there are many agencies that will hire people right out of school. However, you can't expect orientation from them. You would get a brief orientation to the unit on the job but then would be expected to jump right in and function. I'm sure that with your prior experience you could handle it. I had a friend in school that went to work for an agency with no experience and she did ok although she said it was difficult for her.

Hello sam1998. I noticed this post of yours was about a year ago. Are you working as an RN now? When you were applying to other hospitals while working as a CNA with your RN license, did you list your current work experience as a CNA on your applications? I am just wondering because I am in the same boat you were going through. Will the other hospitals you're applying to look at that wrong with you working as a CNA with your RN license and may not consider you as a potential candidate for their hospital?

Caliotter3, do you know which agency your classmate worked for that hired her right out of school? Thanks!

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