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Discussion

RN applying for CNA position

Im a recent new grad, licensed RN, with no luck in landing an RN job. I'm looking into some CNA positions to set my foot in the door and to put my name out there, especially since I'm new to the area (recently moved to a new state). My questions are in regards to writing a resume aiming towards the CNA position. *Note that I'll be receiving a CNA certification from the state through an endorsement process, since I'm already a licensed nurse.

Along with the needed qualifications (CNA, BLS), should I also provide information about being a licensed RN, ACLS certified, and completion of EKG classes? Or would that be irrelevant to the position, and/or over-qualified?

I do not have any medical-related work history, so the only experience that I have is through clinical rotations as a student nurse. So in a resume for a CNA position, would I only include my skills/experience within a CNA's scope of practice? Or should I also include the skills and duties that I performed as a student with the supervision of an RN (RN scope of practice)?

I guess what I'm generally asking is if aiming for a CNA position, would RN-related information be considered irrelevant, or would it actually be beneficial?

Thanks in advance.

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    I never bothered with a resume when applying for CNA positions. I just filled out the job applications. For that matter, job applications have been sufficient for my nursing jobs too. I go to places that I know might hire me and there isn't much of a process to it. The only advice I can give you would be to stress "patient care experiences" in whatever you put down on the app or write in the resume. For CNA positions they are looking for someone who can give patient care, the basics; the ACLS certifications, etc. are nice to put down, but don't detract from you mission of convincing the reader of the app or resume, that you know how to provide patient care.

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    There has been some recent info on threads here that can give you a broad range of good answers. Information about liability and scope of practice are REALLY helpful to understand as you may not have even considered how these aspects would apply to you. You really should check it out. I strongly recommend it!!!

    Sorry that I can't refer you to the specific threads as I'm not very computer saavy and I just stumble around with computers. (I'm techno-challenged!). Do check it out and good luck in your future endeavors.

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    Be careful about this. I was always told not to "work below my license" as it presents some liability issues.

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    Have you checked the Blood Donation and Immunization organizations in your area as well, over the CNA position ?

    Immunizations orgs like Mollen.

    Not sure of your area....just a suggestion.

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    I agree with Kdids520. I know this isn't universal, but in my state you can only legally work as a CNA for 30 days after you pass NCLEX. I can't speak for how it is everywhere else, but I just wanted to throw it out there.

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    • Author

    Thanks for the input. Kdids520 and rexy, I have heard about there being liability issues, but I never really looked into it. In my old state, most nursing students and/or new grads would acquire NA (no certifications) jobs either just prior to or immediately after graduating. I graduated in Dec 2011 and applied for NA positions prior to that, and haven't received any calls, and at that time, moving to another state was just a possible option. The hospital where I did my senior clinical rotations had unexpectedly shut down due to financial issues (:banghead: just my luck!!!). I passed my NCLEX in early March and still haven't had any luck, so in April I decided and committed to moving in June, so during that time, I was in an awkward standstill. During that time, I knew I couldn't accept any jobs back home, so I stopped trying, and began to look for opportunities in the state that Im moving to. No luck here either. I called the board of nursing and found out it is possible for me to work as a CNA after filling out a form.

    DaddyO I have not looked in to that, but I will now. Thanks for the suggestion.

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    I think when you get settled you will find that there are lots of nursing opportunitys available to you. The pay difference is quite a bit. It could be that they did not contact you about employment because you had an out of state address. I hope you do not give up and good luck.

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