Some info from CNAs in New York

Published

Hi. I'm new to the group but i've been reading alot of the post to help me with the process of getting into Nursing school. I (hopefully) start my pre-req classes next spring on bcc. But now I'm looking for a job (and some experience in the medical field. See if i like working in hospitals) I'm about to take a CNA class (btw is free on the Manhattan educational opportunity center)

I have a few questions for people that already work as CNA. I'd really appreciate any information i can get.

How long it took you to find a job after being certified?

How much you started earning? And/or earn now.

How many hours a week you work?

Do you get help if you want to pursue a RN degree?

Thanks.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Well I have been a cna for 8 years, it took me about 6 months to receive a job in the nursing home then I went through an agency. My salary was $15/hour, now its $16.25

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Neurosurgery, Neurology.

I work as a PCA in a hospital. A PCA is basically a CNA + we can draw blood and do EKGs (in addition to vital signs, ADLs, etc). Many PCAs, at least the younger ones, are either already in nursing school, applying, or in/applying to some other health-related school (radiology tech, PA, med school, etc).

It didn't take me long to find a job here in NYC, but I already had experience. I had interviews at two hospitals.

$19/hr. Doesn't really increase that much (my hospital is on the lower end of pay for all staff in the city. For example, new RNs here start at around 60something K a year, while at NYP, they start at 81K).

I work 30 hours/week. Just less than full time.

The hospital provides tuition reimbursement if you're pursuing nursing (undergrad and grad degrees).

After you get your CNA, try to find a job as a PCA/PCT (you may also need phlebotomy and EKG certification). You can do more. Sometimes we get annoyed when they float a CNA to work on our unit, since they can't do labs nor EKGs.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hi Kemifair,

I've been looking for a CNA job, I was wondering what agency you went through because most are paying 8-10 an hour for new grads :\

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Hi Kemifair,

I've been looking for a CNA job, I was wondering what agency you went through because most are paying 8-10 an hour for new grads :\

I went to greystone staffing in long island but they no longer have a healthcare area. That was 2003 and I received 12/hour that time.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion