New CNA no experience staffing agency?

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Specializes in public health.

Is it possible to find an agency that will take a new CNA without any experience? Most ads I read say that at least 1 year hospital experience. Just wondering...I am going to take my board in a month. I really want to get into a hospital but most people told me it's nearly impossible unless you know someone.

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Specializes in LTC.

I don't think any agency would take a new cna, and I wouldn't want to do that anyway. Getting used to ONE facility, after you've had orientation, is hard enough, and especially so for a new CNA.

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YES! YES! YES! I'm a "new cna" and I just got hired at one. Except I did have prior experience as HHA and Respite Care worker. Note, seriously- emphasize any experience or skills that you do have in the field- and use CNA terminology; assist with DLS, ambulation, bedbaths, toileting, etc. RELY on solid references too! Good luck!

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Forgot to mention- ASK if they hire NEW CNA's first- before applying at an agency. Thats' what I did.

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Specializes in 6 yrs LTC, 1 yr MedSurg, Wound Care.

When I got my certification last year, I tried getting on at the hospitals but they wouldn't have me. Trying to avoid LTC, I applied at an agency and they hired me. I got one call, which I missed, and never called them back. I got a job at a nursing home and looking back, I am soooo glad that I didn't work for that agency. There are a million things to learn before you go working alone. I'd bet money that most of the CNAs at the facilities you'll be working at, won't help you as much as you'll need them to.

I don't want to discourage you, but I want you to understand that your class does not teach you everything you need to know. Unless you have some kind of previous experience, I would give a nursing home 6 months and use that as an experience to learn everything you can while you're there.

I've been exactly where you are.

Good luck in your job hunt!

Dondie

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Specializes in LTC.
There are a million things to learn before you go working alone. I'd bet money that most of the CNAs at the facilities you'll be working at, won't help you as much as you'll need them to.

And if their facility is turning to an agency, they're probably really short staffed and don't have time to help you if they wanted to.

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