Tips for New Nurse Educators

I taught for the first time last semester at a ADN program. I have my BSN and 10 years of nursing. My experience includes critical care, home health, consulting for a large insurance corporation and various other clinical exposure.
It is my belief that experience is the best teacher. Good luck.

Hi, Im new here, I recently moved to Augusta Ga. from NJ . There I taught Certified Home Health Aides. I would like to start a school here, but can't seem to find the right info on how to get started. Most people here tell me that a CHHA and a CNA is the same, I need to know what to do.
Twin

I would start with the GA board of nursing. Obtain the regulations for Nursing Assistants/HHA.
I am now a nurse, but I have worked as both a HHA and a CNA. There is a difference. HHA work out of client homes, providing direct personal care, meals and safety supervision. Home health aides follow the guidelines established by the Home health agencies policies and procedures. CNA's are tought basic medical terms, military time, personal care, how to take vital signs, measure input and output and to utilize basic medical equipment, such as, scales electronic beds, hoyer lifts, wheelchairs, shower chairs, and a variety of assistive devices, ect. With the development of Assisted Living Facilities some CNA's are trained how to administer medications and perform glucometer readings. Upon completion they are given a written exam. If they pass then they are awarded the title MedTech. When I trained in the late 80's for two weeks as HHA we where not taught V/S this may have changed by now. As a CNA I trained for three months. CNA's training is geared toward those that desire to work in nursing facilities and must take and pass a state board exam for certification, including a practical demonstation, according the what your state requires.
You can also obtain a listing of healthcare technical schools from the board of nursing. Call them up and ask for the curriculum for Nursing assistant classes. Also go to the library, check out nursing assistant / Home health aide training manuals this will give a better concept of the skills being taught.
Some hospitals and nursing homes may have their own training program
Good Luck.

I most certainly appreciate the tips for new nurse educators. I hope that I will be provided with some teaching aids and some sort of outline of what is expected of the students. I'm a little nervous about the starting from scratch. I loved my Maternity Text. I wish I could use that..........I guess I have no idea what I'm getting into.
Debbie

Hi, I just graduated with a master's degree with my major being nursing education and administration. I went to a private, church affiliated school and it cost about $487/semester hr. I am working at the nursing school affiliated with the school. Have you tried American Association of College of Nurses? www.aacn.nche.edu? Or, a search on higher education costs.
Good luck!

I had 7 years of clinical experience plus 2 national nursing specialty certifications before I entered graduate school for my Masters in Addictions Nursing. Other colleagues have 2-5 years clinical experience before entering graduate school. Again, other nurse colleagues specialize in Nursing Education instead of a clinical specialty and proceed to a Doctorate degree. There is no one way or best route---allow your passion for education to guide you. I have taught RNs through my own seminar business with continuing education nursing contact hours and have found the experience very rewarding. I have also enjoyed teaching RNs, LPNs, CNAs, and other healthcare workers as a Nurse Educator in the hospital setting. Both groups appreciated my clinical experience and my educational credentials.
:hatparty: Time-to-time I toy with the idea of pursuing a Doctorate degree or another Masters degree. With those thoughts pops the question, "Am I doing this for me or to please the expectations of others?"
[COLOR=Red]Follow your dreams. Do it your way.[/color]

I hae taught three years in a hospital and one year in an ADN program. I am now in graduate school finishing hours 10-19. I still found your posts interesting and relevant. I am now a graduate teaching assistant. I plan to keep your posts to help. Thanks.

Vicky,
Great advice! As a new educator, I, too needed to hear your words. Thanks so much.
lvc

Hi.... i am so glad for your input...you are simply great!

Hello, shalimar545,


It is great to have you with us. We are, also, glad you joined us in the Educator forum. Please, tell us a little about your background as an educator. Would love to know more about your experience.