Thinking of getting into nursing...

BrandyGuynn, BSN, RN · Aug 7, 2013

I recommend getting certified in nc. I took my class at my local community college and it cost about $200 for the whole thing, book included but yes you can get it transferred, I believe you would go through your states dept of nursing website for the forms.... I've been told this but haven't had to do it for myself. Good luck!!

KarinV · Aug 7, 2013

Just another thing NY is higher for (reason we are leaving NY). A CNA course at our local community college, including book, scrubs and exam fees is $1850.

I'm definitely interested, I have to call tomorrow to see what kind of help there is for funding.

How long of a course is it for CNA? Our web site didn't give specifics.

Would you also suggest HHA certification is necessary? That was another $700, but looking at job requirements I didn't really see it mentioned.

BrandyGuynn, BSN, RN · Aug 8, 2013

All I needed was a Cna certification and CPR. The course is only 180 ish hours. They have full time day lrograms here but I did mine at night. 3 nights a week for 3 months. I since for my cna2 and am entering nursing school 8/19 :)

KarinV · Aug 9, 2013

I didn't realize there was a CNA 2.

I would hope to get certified here in NY and find a job, even part time for a little experience. I'd be one step ahead when we move. Besides that, I'll need a job immediately after moving.

Thanks for your responses!

BrandyGuynn, BSN, RN · Aug 10, 2013

Some states don't certify a cna2 from what I've been told. We are taught a lot of accelerated nursing skills. Good luck to you!

KarinV · Aug 10, 2013

I found out lots more information today from a friend who's an RN. NY does not have CNA2 because NY has the toughest exam out of all the states. NY's certification is acceptable in any other state and she said it's easy to transfer. She is getting info for me because there are businesses that will PAY me, including health insurance to put me through school and then work for them for a certain length of time. She's also a certified trainer and can train me for the BCLS I need. That's all I have to pay for is the card... $7.

Still gathering info! So far, home health care seems to be one of the highest paying, at least for CNA's in NY.

In your opinion, what's the higher paying CNA positions in NC? Home health, hospital, Dr. office?

BrandyGuynn, BSN, RN · Aug 11, 2013

Definitely home health! I worked in assisted living for a month before I took my critical care job at the hospital. My home health friend made at least $2-$3 more an hour than me- but I really wanted to critical care experience so I dealt with it, and the insurance was good at the hospital too lol, so that kinda made up for it. Keep in mind t average Cna pay starting off in NC is about $8-$8.50 in nursing homes/assisted living. I only made 10.25 at the hospital as a Cna 2, cna1's make $1 less an hour. Im glad you've food someone who can point you in the right direction!!

BrandyGuynn, BSN, RN · Aug 11, 2013

With all that being said though- there's nothing in the world like the experience you get working in a hospital! Most patients are very different and it gives you a huge opportunity to use all your skills. Just something to think about. Comes in handy too if you ever decide to apply for nursing school

KarinV · Aug 11, 2013

Awesome. Thank you SO much for your thoughts. It helps a great deal. I was already leaning towards home health. I have a feeling that's the direction I will be taking. :)