What is the best way for a student to find employment in healthcare?

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Good evening everyone.

I've just started taking my CNA course, which is a pre-req for our RN program. I'm wanting to get a job in a hospital setting during this semester to gain experience, to reinforce what I learn, and to have a better opportunity of landing a position upon receiving my RN license in the future. I'm hoping that if I can start off working in a hospital, it will give me a better opportunity to get a position as a CNA, then a LPN, then a RN as I complete each stage of my college program. We all know that there are many benefits from going this route. However, my question to you is, how do you start?

Do I find a hospital to volunteer at first or should I apply for an externship? Do I write a letter or just walk in and ask to speak with someone? I'm sure there are many others here that can benefit from any suggestions given as well. Thank you for the help.

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Specializes in Cardiac/Respiratory/PCU.

I would look for programs for shadowing. If there aren't any, call around and see what you can find! Shadowing allows you to walk around with a nurse or a tech (at least in my area) and get a feel for what it is like. It is not only beneficial to you, but it shows drive and inititative! Build rapport with those that work on the unit you shadow on and eventually getting hired on there will be simple!

But I will tell you this. TYPICALLY it is easy to find work as a CNA because of the extremely high turnover rate!

Good luck to you!

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Thank you Nursing_Mamacita, I'll take a look into any shadowing programs in my area.

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