paths to nursing degrees.
“ A lot of people start in our clinics,” Roller said.“ The progression from LPN to RN is the natural flow. Some entry-level workers start as certified nursing assistants or CNAs. Mercy uses many CNAs in its hospital departments.”
CNA students take a class that lasts six to eight weeks and includes some supervised time taking care of patients. After the class, the students must pass a test to become certified. Becoming a CNA is one way a young person can find out whether health care is a good fit. Health care is a rewarding profession, but it’ s not for everyone.
“ We’ ll be looking for good and talented people who want to go to work every day,” Pianalto said.
Those dealing directly with patient care should have personality, compassion, care, empathy and feel a need to take care of patients, Roller said. That includes technicians specially trained to perform X-rays and scans such as MRIs and CAT scans. Those techs, as well as some others, require certifications.
Other career opportunities include surgical techs, instrument techs, scrub techs, dietitians, food service employees, cooks, lab assistants, IT departmentworkers, pharmacy techs, and phlebotomists, a medical professional who draws blood from patients.
“ I’ ve got a lot of respect for all employees,” Pianalto said.“ I believe we have an opportunity to touch lives regardless of your job. It’ s being part of a ministry, part of an obligation.”
Entry level jobs start at $ 10 hour, Roller said, but opportunities to advance can come quickly.“ Someone like a surgery tech can make $ 40,000 a year with certification,” Roller added.
Benefits for Mercy employees include paid time off, medical, dental, vision and long term disability insurance, Roller said. Mercy also offers tuition reimbursement, a sick day bank and matches up to six percent on a 401( k) retirement fund.
“ Your application should be polished and have no misspellings,” Roller said.“ You should have a résumé.”
He also recommends practicing interview skills.“ You have got about 35 to 45 minutes to impress someone,” he said.
Those interested in a career in health care can get a head start by taking medical classes offered in high school. Those courses will cover medical terminology, anatomy and many other areas of study.
Not every student is college bound, Pianalto said. Those ready to enter the workforce after graduation should pursue their passions.
“ Keep an open mind,” Pianalto said.“ Your first job may not be your last unless you want it to be. If you have a passionate desire to learn about what you are doing, keep doing it.”
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