private duty nursing vs facility

[aspiringnurse.]

I'm currently a high school student. I'm dual enrolled in a nursing assistant program and I'm on the verge of finishing it. Next year I'm going for my LPN. This summer I want to get a job working as a Nursing Assistant. I plan on going to get my state certification soon.

I'm having trouble deciding whether I should work private duty or within a facility. Right now I work as a Dietary Aide for a facility that I am sure I could get a job as a CNA in. Private Duty appeals to me more though because it's more personal and less hectic. I guess my question is what do you think I'd be better off starting with? What are the differences? Thank you!!

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

I'm assuming that the private duty would be through a home care agency... at least that's the way it work in my part of the world. There are those types of jobs, particularly for home-bound patients with chronic illness or dependent upon technology (ventilator, dialysis, etc.). The challenge for a new grad would be to find a home care agency that can provide adequate new grad training for you. There will be a HUGE difference in responsibility & performance expectations when you become an LPN (as opposed to CNA).

The low-demand, sitter-type jobs will not require advanced skills .... nor are they likely to be reimbursed by any insurance. So the pay is usually very low because the patient/family are paying for it themselves.