Questions on shifts and CNA payscale in Florida

[Floridadreamer]

I am starting classes with the Red Cross tomorrow - here are my questions that are keeping me up at night!

1. Do I have to work weekends and nights upon taking a first job? What is PRN? Does it matter in what type of facility you work for? I am still not sure where I want to go...LTC, Rehab, Nursing Home. I am hoping to get a PCT job in a hospital....my clinicals with a nursing home will tell. I have worked 9-5 all my life. A bit different...

2. What is the pay for a CNA in the Tampa area (if anyone knows) or just in general. Seems like a pretty intense career with not much pay. I understand my comittment to this new journey. I really want to get an idea of what I am getting into. I read a thread on how a new RN cannot get a job in Miami - pretty scary since it seems the economy says that we are in great need of medical personnel.

HELP!!! worried.

[babe48076]

Most facilities request that you work every other weekend. PRN means as needed. The hospital pays less than the ltc facilities, but you will get the clinical experience. As a CNA you can make anywhere from $10-14 depending on where your work and the amount of experience you have. I also worked the typical office job and decided to pursue nursing. In the medical field you can never get bored. I encourage you to try to get into the local hospital and get the PCT training they offer.

[Floridadreamer]

Thank you so much! You have been a great help. One day at a time! Can a CNA straight out of class get a 7-3 shift? Not sure if I can handle the night shift....guess it all depends on the opportunity. I am going to do a tour of one of the hospitals this week that offers PCT/CNA. Seems I am on the right track. Again, thanks! $ sounds better than what I have read...good to know.

[babe48076]

I received a a 7-3 shift from the beginning. Do not take the first position that is offered; especially if you know you can not handle the night shift. I know I can't so that is not an option. I know that coming in the hospital as a new CNA you will make somewhere around $10 something, but you can sign up for the PCT course that only takes two days and you will make around $11.40. The more training the money you make. You are defintiely on the right track. Stay focus on your long term goal and it will pay off.