I don't like my job :(

Nursing Students CNA/MA

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Specializes in Geriatrics.

I've been at my new job for only a week now, and I already don't like it. :( I *LOVE* the residents (just to clarify) but I really hate the LTC environment. I didn't like it during clinical, either- I should have just went with my gut. I hate running around trying to find supplies or even just a WASHCLOTH for a resident. I hate how understaffed and unorganized the facility is. I mean, I hate this job so much that I'm starting to wonder if I should even become a nurse. I mean, if I don't even like being a CNA, why would I want to become a nurse? I would love to have a unit secretary/clerk position, but it seems like most hospitals (and even nursing homes) require at least a year's experience as a CNA for those positions. I'm really at a loss of what to do. I know I should probably stick it out and see if it gets better, but I don't want to be miserable at this job. How do I know if the nursing field just isn't for me?

I'm not sure if I'm looking for advice, I guess I was just wondering if anyone has felt this way during their first CNA job, and if it gets any better. :(

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Specializes in LTC.

I say just stick it out for a while. When I first started I really loved it, and then about a week in, I hated it and I couldn't figure out why because I really loved the residents. I wanted to quit, but then I realized it was only because I wasn't as experienced as the other aides. Now I know long-term care pretty well, and it makes me feel really good to almost be able to diagnose someone with something, or do little procedures (vitals, etc.) that I've longed to do since I was a little girl!

From what I've heard, almost any health care job is going to be a little disorganized -- what area in health is totally and completely predictable? Plus, one of the great things about my job as a CNA, I'm constantly busy for my eight-hour day, and before I know it, my day is over and I'm going home. I get so pumped working my eight-hour day, I've worked sixteen-hour days to help out and have been fine with it!

Just stick it out would be my advice, though. Get a little better at it, and see how it goes. I worked three jobs before I got my CNA job, and it was my first real job -- and my first in healthcare, it's something you have to get used to. You can even ask a nurse or two if they loved or hated their CNA positions before they became nurses, and how it compares; you could even job shadow a nurse somewhere. And if you decide you don't want to be a nurse, there are other things you can do that are fun because you still get to see the residents. I think an Activities Director would be fun.

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.

I agree with the previous poster...try and stick it out for a minute. It is true, you are new and a bit nervous. As you see, it is nothing like the textbooks or what is described in class. Maybe a bit of organization, time management and prioritizing will make you feel a bit differently. I remember feeling that way when I first started as a CNA...my bones ached, no supplies, no help from the other CNAs or nurses. But, one day, I remember praying and asking an angel to come and assist me. Believe it or not, I think the angel came the following week. I started lifting and turning those patients like the best of them.

I can also attest to this as well...being a nurse is not much easier. I felt the same way I did when I began as a CNA and it got better, too, with time. Good luck!

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Like the others have said, stick it out for a good period of time before you chuck the idea of becoming a nurse or continuing to work as a CNA. You might also try other job areas. Get your Home Health Aide certificate and try being a home health aide for awhile. The atmosphere in the home is much different and taking care of one patient is much more conducive to giving you a sense that you have accomplished something. You might also consider becoming a Restorative Aide. This might lead to an interest in physical therapy. Don't give up on health care yet. You really need to give yourself a chance to get used to it. Good luck.

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Specializes in Hospice.

Aw, Dreamy! Hang in there sweetheart!

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Specializes in Geriatrics.

Thanks everyone. I actually quit the LTC facility today- It wasn't the work I hated doing, it was the facility I think that was making me have second thoughts. But I know that not all nursing homes (hopefully) are like this facility. I actually had heard bad things about it to begin with, so I'm not really sure why I took the job in the first place...I think it was because I just really wanted to start working as a nursing assistant. The funny thing is, after I quit, 5 minutes later the ADON of a really nice assisted living facility called me and wanted me to begin orientation this week at their facility. :) So I'll be starting this Thursday- and they pay $12 an hour to start, which isn't bad at all. I have a feeling that this place will be much better, I went on a tour last month and it looked really nice, not to mention everyone seemed very laid back and friendly there. I'll keep you guys updated. :)

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I'm really happy for you. I was going to say I know in my area, there are like 20 different LTC evironments to choose from. The nursing homes , the assisted livings, the independant livings, all of them ranging from low income to private pay classy places. I know when it came to my choice I picked a place that was beautiful, and the staff seems friendly and heplful. Nothing worse then feeling like you can't help somebody properly because the facility can't afford the supplies. I think I would get depressed in a place like that. Anyways, sorry so long winded. I really hope your'e happy at this new place and the pay sounds great too!

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Specializes in Geriatrics.

Thanks Irene! Yes, the place was very depressing. I feel really awful about it, because I LOVED working with the alzheimer's residents. They were great. But the place I start at on Thursday is really nice inside, they have a huge dining hall with chandeliers (sp?), a pool, and a place where the residents can go ballroom dancing. :) It's more like a retirement place for independent residents, and it's really small, but I think I'll like it a lot. :D

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Specializes in LTC.

Good job sticking it out, Dreamy. If you have a bad feeling about facility and you've heard the same from around the community, they tell you to go with your gut. The good thing is that you're willing to try another workplace. I'm like you, I love working with Alzheimer's or dementia residents so much, but a lot of people are really, really happy at ALFs so good luck. :)

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Specializes in Hospice.

Congratulations, Dreamy! I'm sure you'll like this new setting a lot better. Sometimes when we're trying something new we having to search a little before we find our niche. I think your new facility will be very lucky to employ you! :p

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Sorry the first place didn't work out, Dreamy. Hopefully this place will be a better fit for you.

And I have to say, I know what you mean about not liking the LTC environment. That was probably my biggest problem during clinicals.

Congratulations on getting this new position! All the best! :balloons:

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.

I am very happy to hear that you received yet, another opportunity in your young career! Good luck!

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