What to look for/What to ask when looking for a job?

Nursing Students CNA/MA

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I am finishing a CNA class, and am beginning to look for a job. I thought I wanted to work at a hospital, but I love the LTC. Granted as a student CNA I don't have the pressure of getting everything done, but I do like working with the residents. I like the relationship building that LTC affords.

I have another job, so I can take my time and get a good fit. I hope to work 2 12 hr. shifts/week. The soonest I would start would be after Thanksgiving, or after the first of the year.

What would you look for when you visit at LTC facility on an interview? Is it appropriate to ask to shadow a CNA for a few hours? What questions would you ask to the administrator and the CNA?

I have searched our state reviews from the board of health and am choosing the locations I will apply to wisely!

THANKS!

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Specializes in Wound Care , Foot Care,and Geriatrics.

hey there...my instructor recommended that we ask a]do they administer alot of enemas,supps, or use alot of laxatives b]do they have a large staff turnover and why? c] do many of the residents have pressure ulcers? d] are the ressies passing away from"natural causes?all these questions focus on the level and quality of care given on mamy levels.also are all the staff certified?are thet familiar with the "gentle care"philosophy? how often are they bathed,get out with activities,do they advocate using medications to restrain them or handle behavior problems?any ways good luck to you! i am on the last month of my practicum at a wonderful veterans care facility and learning tons...pm me if you want!

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Specializes in Level III cardiac/telemetry.

Don't forget to ask about the nurse/patient (or resident) ration and the CNA/patient ratio. The expectations they have of the aides needs to be realistic.

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Don't forget to ask about the nurse/patient (or resident) ration and the CNA/patient ratio. The expectations they have of the aides needs to be realistic.

What is realistic? I hope to work on a skilled unit.

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LovesDisney,

Advice: If the odor of stale urine and Stage IV decubiti hit your nose as you walk in the front door, make a U-turn.

That's advice from our instructor who has been in LTC for 20 years. She says, unfortunately, such places do exist.

And most of these are straight from our textbook:

  1. What hours and what days would I work?
  2. What type of orientation/training will I have? How long?
  3. What benefits are you offering? (Insurance, paid time off, vacation/holidays)
  4. What is the CNA to resident ratio?
  5. What is the CNA to Nurse ratio?
  6. What is the Nurse to resident ratio?
  7. Will I be able to reach my supervisor when I'm at work? (this might be for home health or assisted living???)
  8. When will you fill the position?

Jot down what you're told. Take a clean pad of paper, and take notes right then. It shows you will do the same when you take care of the residents.

Good luck! :wink2:

Let us know how it all fares.

Agatha

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