Possible volunteer involving patient care

[gentlerain]

I am a first-year college student and would like to start gathering my hours next semester b/c I will be transferring to a state university that is in close proximity to many hospitals.

 

Does volunteering at a nursing home count towards direct patient care?

Or do I need to first get a CNA certificate?

 

And are there any other places that are accepting of college volunteers or will make me competitive in the application process?

 

Thanks!

[just_me]

Usually to get direct patient care...hands on....its going to be a paying job. Most volunteer opportunities do not allow for it (of course there are exceptions to everything) its a HIPAA and insurance/liability thing. Especially with a nursing home I think most volunteers read books, help with activities and things like that while the CNAs are the hands on--ofcourse I didnt work in a nursing home sooooo the ones in your area could be different.

 

I would say, if youre going to take the time to get a certification, then why not get a paying job with it. Get a job, work FT or PT all the way through school while handling a solid courseload shows a lot, plus, with paying jobs you have a better chance for cross-training and such meaning a chance to learn more skills.