NursingLink

I have just completed a CNA course and will be taking my certification exam in a week. I am seeking advice on the best facility to seek employment considering I am also a nursing student.  There are so many different thoughts bouncing around in my head. I feel that working a PRN position 11p-7a shift at a nursing home will enable me to have some down time to study. Then I feel that I could learn a little more in a hospital environment, and home healthcare has also come to mind.  I'm extremely excited, eager, yet nervous and not sure which path to take. So I'm just looking for advice from some vets.

Sounds like I am in the exact same boat, rbracely... I take my exam on the 14th. I would recommend working in a hospital, the HR department at my program location told me that working in long-term care facilities/nursing homes are looked at by many as an occupational  liability if/when you want to advance your career. I would also look up the mission statements and patient reviews (try yelp.com) of different facillities where you might want to work. For instance, I loved the hospital-sponsored program I took and I adored my instructors, but would not want to work with that company in the future because of religious/ethical differences. I'm  looking at other hospitals in my area. Call their HR departments and ask their reps what they  want in an employee, and work from there.

However, asking others for advice is a great first step (and one I've been taking as well)... best of luck, and cheers!!!

I can't believe it has been over 30 years since I did my CNA as the beginning of my nursing road.  I worked in several hospitals as a CNA as I went to nursing school and it was the best thing I could have done.  The experience was invaluable.  I am now a PNP and am going back for my doctorate and I still think my beginning as a CNA was the best thing I ever did.  Good luck ladies.