Hi Moms,
I would like to become a Home Health Aide, and I know I would need to obtain my CNA certification. Once I become certified, do you know if I can be a Home Health Aide, or would I have to work in a nursing home or hospital as a CNA first? Thanks!
When I first got my CNA, I applied to a home health agency but I didn't get hired because I had no experience. I applied to a hospital instead and I like it much better, I get benefits and get my school paid. Alot of places might not hire you if you have no experience so a nursing home first might be a good idea.
I would say it would behoove you to work in the nursing home for a bit just so you can get that experience under your belt. You might even find a client base there and then you could do both even. I also suggest you continue with your studies and get into the nursing program, being a CNA is a wonderful position, but it is hard work for not so great of pay for what is asked of you. I have 3 CNA tenants, nice, young girls, but all 3 of them are working at an assisted living facility and have entered into the nursing program. Giving people bathes and cleaning up after them all day is very trying and you have to remain cheerful for the patient. I hope you are one of the sweet, caring ones... they are very much appreciated and are a delight to the older, disabled folks.
You can go right into to home health aide after you pass your test but like Grandma T I suggest you try out a nursing home just to get yourself familiar with the work you will be doing. Who knows you may like the nursing home.
