Seeking a Pre-CNA job

Published

I'm currently working in corporate America. I'd like to change direction and go into LTC and Geriatric Nursing (I have particular interest in dementia care and geropsych...I took care of a family member for years with dementia). I'm looking into nursing schools and will take a CNA class beginning the middle of June. I will not have CNA certification until August.

I am anxious to get into the field. Are there jobs out there that do not require CNA certification that I can start now, instead of waiting until I'm certified? The nursing schools in my area have unbelievable waiting lists.

Any info would be helpful.

Regards,

EJ

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Geriatrics.

There are a few LTC facilities in my area that hire NAs or sometimes they are called geri aides. They basically make beds, pass trays. They aren't really allowed much direct patient contact. Most places require you to be a CNA even to feed residents. The other down side is the pay. I don't know your situation but NAs probably only make $6-7/hr. Were as a CNA can make up to $16/hr. All depends on what you are looking for. If you want the patient contact I would recommend waiting unitl you are certified, if you want to get your feet wet go ahead and see if any places hire NAs.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Whoa... where can a CNA make $16/hr (other than agency work)? The most that I've seen is maybe $8.00/hr.

Just curious, maybe it's the part of the country that I'm in, but wow, CNA working for $16/hr seems very high.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC.

I'm in minnesota, pool agencies normally pay around 16/hr.

I work as an CNA/HHA in assisted living and startting wages at my facility are 11-12/hr, but thats kinda high for assisted living. Most LTC/Assisted Livings start around 9-10/hr the hospitals start 11.50-13/hr.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Gerontology, Med surg, Home Health.

If you have the time, I'd suggest being a volunteer for a while. Spend some time on an Alzheimer's unit. It's much different being with 40+ demented people all day than being with one family member. It's been my experience (and I'm NOT saying how many years that is :cool: ) but you'll either love the dementia unit or hate it. I've rarely found anyone who is wishy washy about wanting to work with the demented.

PS. CNA's around here start between $9 and $10 / hr with no experience. The only ones I know who are making $16+ are those who have worked in the same building for more than 20 years.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion