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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