How to move on in a CNA career?

[lendytexas]

I've always heard you need to work first in a nursing home or LTC facility before applying at hospitals.

I am working at a LTC now, but would like to work at a 24-hour medical clinic (such as a Care Now, etc). Do these places hire CNAs? I am proficient at taking vitals and all that.

[sunniern]

Where I live, they hire medical assistants. You may want to check into taking a course if that's possible for you. I think it's 6-8 months maybe shorter. They work with physicians assiting them with different procedures, writing diagnostic orders, a lot of talking on the phone and so forth. It really does require some formal learning. I'm an RN and worked in a clinic/urgent care setting along side medical assistants for a few years. Our jobs were very much the same except the RN's Started the IV's and helped the MD's in more severe emergencies.

[OldBroad]

lendy, what's stopping you from pursuing an LVN diploma? You would have so many more opportunities. A CNA is a good way to start your nursing career, but if possible you should move on. When I started school to become an LVN way back in 1999, there was a sign on the door that read, Warning: Your life will only be changed for the BETTER by becoming an LVN. They were so right.
Then, what you do is up to you. An LVN can be a stepping stone to an RN, or you may find contentment with being an LVN. Regardless, don't limit yourself to being a CNA.

[AngelinnaS]

You might want to consider a Certified Medication Aide course or a Licensed Vocational Nurse program. It depends how much money and time you are willing to invest at this point. Medication Aide courses are shorter and less expensive than a Licensed Vocational Nurse program. I agree with the other people responding to your post that an LVN program is a great career move that will provide increased opportunities in the future (from here you can move on to obtaining an RN degree and earning a lot more).

[lendytexas]

I would love to go through an LVN program eventually. Only thing stopping me right now is that I have a small child. I am not sure how that would interfere with LVN studies, as I've heard its a very tough curriculum. How many hours a week do you have to study in an LVN program?