Introduction & CNA Questions

[Dorali, BSN, LPN, RN]

Hi Everyone!

My name is Dondie. I have been reading the forum for a few days now and decided to jump in.

A little about me, I'm 24, married for 3 years, and I have 2 little girls who are 5 and 1. I live in Tulsa and I've been a stay at home mom since my oldest was born. I took a medical transcription course and graduated last year but never started working. I have decided I want to try a more hands-on job in the medical field so I've decided to take a CNA course. Which brings me to my questions...

First, I'm considering taking the course at OSU. I read here that there is a class in Tulsa. Has anyone taken it and do you think they trained you well enough to do your job? Also, are there any classes that are better?

Second, since I have a 1 year old, daycare is something I will have to have. I've heard that St. Francis has on site child care and was wondering if this is true and if there is a cost. Are there any other places that offer child care? I don't have any preference for nursing homes or hospitals so whatever is available is fine with me.

Third, what is the average starting pay for a new CNA. I'm just trying to get an idea of what I should expect.

Thanks in advance for any help with my questions.

I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone!

Dondie

[Buckyxj]

in my experience starting pay is anywhere from 8 to 12 an hour at ltc (long term care) nursing homes. as for child care you could just work a shift that would work out with you and your husband or just get child care somewhere else. I didn't help alot but that is a start.

[Dorali, BSN, LPN, RN]

Thank you Bucky! I appreciate your help!

I guess hubby and I will have to figure something out between ourselves. Daycare would be coming out of what I earn and I don't plan on spending everything I get on it.

Any tips or advice on this subject would be helpful if anyone has any. Thanks!

Dondie

[iwillact]

Hi, I did the OSU tulsa CNA course and I was pleased. It wasnt difficult but it still prepared me for what I would be doing. The only way to really learn it, is to do it and that happens on the job. My pay through St. Johns is 9.60 an hour and excellant health benefits (that are immeidate). As far as daycare a lot of the girls work when family can watch the babies (Like doubles on weekends or evenings). GL

[Dorali, BSN, LPN, RN]

Thank you, daretoact! I will consider St. John's, thanks for the information about them. It will help me make an informed decision when the time comes. I appreciate it!

Dondie