New Grad RN no job thinking of being a CNA

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So I graduated last May and I'm a licensed New Grad RN. I am having sooo much trouble finding a job here in California. When I moved I let my CNA II cert expire and now I'm wishing I would have held on to it. How do I go about getting my CNA license if I'm a RN? Do I have to take the test and all over again?

TIA

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It makes me so sad to hear this but I know all too well the reality of it. The thought of having to take steps back after all the hardwork we devoted to becoming an RN makes me sick!! I am in the same boat as you, I just graduated in May and has been an LPN for 14 yrs and am having so much trouble also finding a job. Either they dont call you back or reject you or tell you that you need experience..uggh, hello I guess my 14 yrs as an LPN are useless!! I'm sorry..I'm venting but it is so frustrating!! :yawn:

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It makes me so sad to hear this but I know all too well the reality of it. The thought of having to take steps back after all the hardwork we devoted to becoming an RN makes me sick!! I am in the same boat as you, I just graduated in May and has been an LPN for 14 yrs and am having so much trouble also finding a job. Either they dont call you back or reject you or tell you that you need experience..uggh, hello I guess my 14 yrs as an LPN are useless!! I'm sorry..I'm venting but it is so frustrating!! :yawn:

Its alright with me if you vent. I'm trying to keep my head up but it sucks and is very depressing.

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Specializes in Peds/outpatient FP,derm,allergy/private duty.

What I'd like to know is how everyone was broadsided by this. You would think having their finger on the pulse of the job market is something intrinsic to nursing school administration/faculties. People who attribute all of it to cyclic downturns in the economy-- well I'm sorry but you're wrong.

In my eyes, this is a disaster, but maybe that's 'cause I'm biased and read about nurses mostly.

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I'm also a jobless new grad but in Colorado. I've tried to get a job as a CNA and have been denied, I hear the reason is because it would create a liability for the hospital. I've given up on that option.

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

Most places won't hire an RN as a CNA for two reasons: liability, and the fact that they know the minute an RN job opens up you're leaving for it. They don't want to waste the time and money training you when they know you won't stay. You could still try...but don't be surprised if many places tell you No.

I'm sorry you're having a rough time.

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Specializes in CVICU.
So I graduated last May and I'm a licensed New Grad RN. I am having sooo much trouble finding a job here in California. When I moved I let my CNA II cert expire and now I'm wishing I would have held on to it. How do I go about getting my CNA license if I'm a RN? Do I have to take the test and all over again?

TIA

Have you considered looking for jobs in Texas?

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Have you considered looking for jobs in Texas?

I dont know that the market in Texas is any better. I've been all over the job postings out there and only one call from a hospital in Lubbock.

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Specializes in Cardiac Nursing.

I'm sorry to hear about how you are struggling! I am hoping to start an ADN RN program in the fall (am waiting to hear back any day now) and seeing how much folks are struggling to find a job post graduation is disheartening! I wish you the best and hope you find something soon.

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Have you tried home health agency,sometimes they are willing to hire new nurses especially those fluent in another language.

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Specializes in LTC.

I am not sure, but you might want to check with BON in your state. I am not sure that you can work as a CNA when you are an RN. Once I got my LPN, my CNA was null and void. But this varies from state to state.

Keep your head up and try to remain positive. I know its tough, but you will get a job. :redpinkhe

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Have you considered looking for jobs in Texas?

I'm a military spouse which is what brought me to California so up and moving at the moment isn't an option for me.

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