I worked as a caregiver before taking up nursing. Advice on resume please?

I am currently trying to complete my resume and on the part where we put our past experiences, the closest I have related to nursing is was when I worked as a caregiver for the elderly for about 5 to 7 years before starting nursing school (graduated this past May 2011. Recently passed the Nclex-RN in August). Never had any other work experience other that that. I worked either through filling in for friends, through local caregiver agencies, and other times directly hired by the family.

Volunteer work was required in the program so that's how I gained volunteer experience. I loved it! but outside of the requirement I never got the chance to do so again.

My question is, how would I make my resume look "hire-able"? Would I just list all the agencies, places, and names of the families that have hired me in the past? And most of the agencies I don't even know if they are still in business.

Any advice please?
Quote from jobhuntingMy question is, how would I make my resume look "hire-able"? Would I just list all the agencies, places, and names of the families that have hired me in the past? And most of the agencies I don't even know if they are still in business.

Quote from blackbird singing What exactly was your role as a caregiver?

I would list all your previous experience as it is pertinent. If an agency went out of business that's not your fault, list them.

Even non-nursing/healthcare jobs have validity in showing longevity, and that you were worth keeping around My first job app had working at a Hallmark store (nightmare- every dopey holiday...like "Dentist's Lawnmower Appreciation Day"- ok, not really, but close... had to reorganize the whole ******* aisle, for like a week, until the next idiotic thing came along), doll house shop (fun), etc.... they were still employers who could vouch for my attendance, rehire eligibility, salary (3.35/hr), etc. It all counts ! No new nurse is going to have a heavily "medical" padded resume' - just add what you've done, and good luck