How can I become a Certified Nursing Assistant (in the Denver area) while working?
Asked by James
I want to work at a hospital or nursing home, but I'm not sure where to start. I am a pre-nursing major at CU Denver, going for a BS-RN. I want to work as a CNA until I can make it into nursing school, next spring. Also, what is the average pay for a CNA, starting out? Thanks for the help!!!

Best Answer:
When I was in Denver several years ago the average pay was $7-9/hr...not sure what it is now. Quite frankly, CNA work is HARD work, and if your a male they will work you twice as hard...you get all the lifting work. The best route to go is in home care, working on your own for private pay as an orderly or male caregiver provider. Then your going rate can go up to $10-15/hr. There is also respite care which involves shorter hrs and higher pay (due to traveling from one client to another). Personally I wouldn't waste my $ on a CNA course, I would just go for my LPN or RN. Or at the very least, go for med aide, they get paid more and don't get all the crappy jobs CNAs get stuck with. You have to take med terminology to do that tho if I remember right.

CNA's are making about 10-12 an hour in most states. And it is a thankless job. You will most likely need to attend an 80 or 120 hr CNA class. Most hospitals and nursing home facilities require the certificate for insurance purposes. Ask someone at your college, an advisor. They would be able to tell you what is required in your state.
Answered by wizzards_23

Home health is the way to go because the pay isn't bad and you can set the hours you're available, I am a home health care provider and I find it very rewarding and I make $10 an hour. Some states don't even require a CNA certification, Just on the job training. Just a side note: A mistake I see so often with CNA"s at least in our area, While working with the elderly , You can not take their moods personally. I have one who can be quite nasty but you have to let it roll off your shoulders because they are just frustrated they can't care for themselves the way they use to. If they aren't compassionate and understanding ,they don't belong in this field.
Answered by D R