PRN hospital job for new CNA?

[aname]

I am becoming a CNA in a few months and am wondering what types of jobs I have a chance of getting after I get my certification. This is in California if that matters.

I am getting my CNA certification because I am considering going to school to be an RN someday, and I have read that being a CNA can (somewhat) give you an idea of what being a nurse is like. I don't want to go back to school only to find out that I don't like being an RN!

I am currently working full time as a software engineer and have no plans to quit my job. How easy will it be to get PRN work right after I get my certification? I have been looking at job postings in the area and not all of them require prior experience, but I want to know what the likelihood of securing a PRN position with no experience is. Also, what is the likelihood I would be able to get this job in a hospital vs. long term care facility?

[Missingyou, CNA]

As a new CNA it is very unlikely that you will be able to find any CNA position in a hospital. They are usually in high demand and most often want 6 months of long term care....there is a small chance that there is a huge demand for CNA's in your area in which case your chances are somewhat better.

PRN in a nursing home is possible. You have a better chance at finding work "as needed" at a home care agency which will allow you to choose your shifts as you want.

[aname]

Thanks! I will look into the home care agency.

Does the 6 months in long term care need to be full time?

[valliloves]

Hi, I sent you a PM on these forums. Did you get it?

[aname]

I tried to send you a response but I can't PM yet :-(

[Missingyou, CNA]

Thanks! I will look into the home care agency.

Does the 6 months in long term care need to be full time?

I would say no, not usually.

[valliloves]

I tried to send you a response but I can't PM yet :-(

Oh that's OK! I just wanted to make sure you got it!! You can respond to me in this thread if you want :)

[aname]

Oh that's OK! I just wanted to make sure you got it!! You can respond to me in this thread if you want :)

I live in the bay area, and the nearest hospital to me in that system is 50 miles away unfortunately. Sounds like you have a great set up though, and thanks for the suggestion!