Waiting to get a CNA job?

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Specializes in Surgical/Trauma ICU.

I took a CNA course in December/January/February and took the exam in late March. I didn't have time to work as a CNA as because I'm in school finishing all my prereqs for nursing school and everything.

As long as I do my CEUs to keep my certification, does it matter how long I wait before I get a job? Will I have trouble finding a job the longer I wait after taking the test (like a few more months when I'm done with my nursing prereqs)?

My mom is a nurse and she said it shouldn't matter. Just checking incase anyone has first or second hand experience with this.

Thanks

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Depends on where you live. When in doubt, call the Board of Nursing in your state and find out what is required to keep your CNA. In my state, you renew every two years, with a minimum of 400 hours worked as a CNA for the entire two years. However, new CNA's are not subject to that requirement, partially because working depends on finding a job. So yeah, your mom's probably right. But if you can't find the info online at your BON website, call them.

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Specializes in Med-Surg/urology.

I agree it all depends on your state. I got my license this May & I have to renew it by October 28th. To keep it current, I have to work at least 16 hours for compensation as a CNA and 8 hours for compensation as a GNA (license I need to work in a nursing home).When will your license expire?

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Specializes in Surgical/Trauma ICU.
I agree it all depends on your state. I got my license this May & I have to renew it by October 28th. To keep it current, I have to work at least 16 hours for compensation as a CNA and 8 hours for compensation as a GNA (license I need to work in a nursing home).When will your license expire?

I live in California. According to the California Registry and the date on my certificate, it doesn't expire until January 2012.

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Hi everyone,

I am about to become a CNA in November. I will be looking for a job after that, preferably at a local Seattle hospital. I have no previous experience working in health care, I've been a nanny for awhile though. I'm curious if anyone knows a good place to start looking for a CNA job, that doesn't require previous experience? Thanks!

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Specializes in Surgical/Trauma ICU.
Hi everyone,

I am about to become a CNA in November. I will be looking for a job after that, preferably at a local Seattle hospital. I have no previous experience working in health care, I've been a nanny for awhile though. I'm curious if anyone knows a good place to start looking for a CNA job, that doesn't require previous experience? Thanks!

Usually nursing homes are the ones that hire new CNAs. Hospitals usually require 1-2 yrs clinical experience, there are some exceptions though. I live in CA though so it might be different where you live depending on the need for CNAs there. Just check around and check online and stuff.

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here in north carolina you have 2 years before you have to recertify. then when you do all you have to do is have worked under a rn for at least 8 hours. I already got that covered so i have nothing to worry about.

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