There's never been a better time to be a Certified Nursing Assistant, or CNA. Learn about the top places for CNAs to find jobs today in this article.
Now that you have your Certified Nursing Assistant, or CNA, license, you'd probably like to find a job as quickly as possible. If so, you'll be glad to know that there's never been a better time to find work as a Certified Nursing Assistant. That largely has to do with the steadily aging population in this country - something that has drastically increased demand for skilled nursing professionals. Before looking for a job in earnest, you should decide which types of jobs appeal the most to you. A great way to figure this out is by investigating the top places for CNAs to work. Your choices are varied, so finding the perfect position shouldn't be too difficult.
Some of the best job opportunities for CNAs can be found in the following places:
Public and private hospitals alike have a strong need for skilled CNAs. Jobs are plentiful not only because these facilities care for so many patients, but also because they're open around the clock. Regardless of where you live, you should be able to find a hospital job without too much trouble.
As baby boomers move into their golden years, extended care facilities like nursing homes and assisted living communities need experienced CNAs more than ever. These jobs are readily available and are excellent options for new CNAs. The work is grueling, but the relationships you form with residents make it rewarding too. Extended care facilities are found just about everywhere, so you can take your pick from a variety of options.
In some areas, the nurse shortage is so extreme that facilities hire traveling CNAs to pick up the slack. If you are a motivated self-starter who doesn't mind being in new places again and again, this may be the line of work for you. The pay tends to be a little more competitive, and there's never a dull moment. It's also a great way to get a feel for the many work environments that are available to CNAs.
If the idea of working in a hospital, nursing home, or other facility doesn't appeal to you, consider providing home care as a CNA. This typically means teaming up with an RN and making house calls. Patients are mostly elderly people who are still well enough to live mostly on their own, but you will encounter people from all walks of life in this line of work.
If a consistent schedule without any night shift work is what you're after, working as a CNA in a private practice may be right for you. Competition for such jobs tends to be fierce, and you will probably have to gain some experience in other environments before you're able to land one. However, the perks are considerable. It's a great way to get your foot in the door of a doctor's office where you may eventually be able to work your way up into different positions.
These days, CNAs don't have to struggle to find work. However, a work environment that's great for one CNA may be less than desirable for the next. With that in mind, investigate popular workplaces for CNAs in your area before applying anywhere. Keep in mind too that you can always look for a new job if the first one you find isn't quite right for you.