New CNA in need of options...

[ladybug09]

Hello everyone! I just completed a cna course a few months ago and recently passed my state exam. I became eager to work as a cna mainly to gain experience as a premed. However, in the past few months, I've developed moderate back problems that stems from a back injury received as a child. As a result, I will have a difficult time performing any work in nursing homes or hospitals seeing that the work will be too strenuous for me and may worsen my condition. My question is are there any jobs where I can use my certificate to work in a position that is not as demanding? Or do you think it would be best for me to not work as a CNA at all? I don't want to feel as if I've wasted my $600 on the training course only to find out that I cant put my certificate to good use. Should I become a phlebotomist instead? Any advice is greatly appreciated.

[Darkstar1485, BSN, CNA, LPN, RN]

Being a CNA is normally physically demanding, but there are some jobs that aren't. I work in a ALF so I don't have to do any heavy lifting. My residents just need supervision and not skilled nursing care. I have nerve damage in my left hand and an old hip injury. I have never experienced pain while doing my job.

[RedhairedNurse2Be]

Look into Phelbotomy or EKG tech, or possibly

a medical receptionist. I'm sure there a lot of things you could still do, just be creative. Try a Home Health care job. I don't think there is a lot of lifting and I think the pay might be better.