Advice for new CNA in LTC?

vampiregirl, BSN, RN · Apr 16, 2006

Each shift has it's own atmosphere, you'll have to find where you fit in best.

As for the care you provide, something to consider is if you would want a family member to be cared for like you are caring for a resident. In regards to "being understaffed and being unable to provide good care", it is possible to provide good care, just take it one resident at a time. You do have to prioritize and organize yourself, which sometimes takes a little while to catch on to. At first, you may feel overwhelmed or discouraged. That just means you care about your quality of work. Resident safety should always come first. As your nurses for feedback. If they see you are trying to provide quality care, they should be more than willing to offer suggestions.

As for it being hard work, yes, it is. But it can also be a fantastic learning experience to prepare you for nursing. Ask questions and learn from the nurses. I don't think I've ever worked with a nurse that I haven't learned something from (and occasionally, it's been gee... I don't think I'll ever do that in that way). Keep a positive attitute and don't get discouraged. Good luck!

nursedawn67, LPN · Apr 16, 2006

Hi, I applied for a cna job while I wait 5 months for nursing school to start, and I'm pretty sure I'll be offered the job.
Just wondering if you have any advice or survival suggestions for me? I did some cna clinical time there so I realize it will be hard work, but would love any positive helpful suggestions.
One big question on my mind, are evenings better than days?
Should I just plan on being understaffed and it being impossible to give good care, or is it better than that? I want to go in thinking positive but realistic.

Thanks! Tofutti

I agree with the other post, each shift has it's own schedule and demands, find out which works for you. Being a CNA before nursing school is a wonderful beginning, it really helps alot. Also the best advice I got was "remember the end of the shift comes every day, so don't get overwhelmed." And also remember to ask for help if you need it, one...no one can read your mind and can tell you need help, two....ask the nurses also if you need help believe me if they can't help because of what they are doing they will tell you. I get so frustrated because I see my CNA's spending time looking for help and I was right there, I tell them just ask me.

Good luck!

Megsd, BSN, RN · Apr 17, 2006

From my experience as a CNA, I have found that you CAN provide quality care if you WANT to. Some CNAs will do only the bare minimum required and you will notice they get their work done much quicker than you. But I feel that doing the little extras, like getting them fresh water, straightening the room, etc. makes the residents' day and makes my job more fulfilling. The staffing situation depends partly on your facility. Some facilities have an awful time with call-offs, and some don't.

My advice to you would be to always try your best to accommodate the residents' needs, because they are the reason you are there. Do not get frustrated with yourself if it takes you longer to do things... you need to get used to the routine and develop your own style. Do ask for advice from other aides or nurses on ways to do things more efficiently. And get to know your residents and their likes, dislikes and quirks. If you already know they put lotion on their back, legs, and arms after a shower or that they like 2 cream and 1 sugar in their coffee with breakfast, you won't need to ask these questions all the time and can anticipate their needs, making the job easier on you.

And yes, the end of the shift does come every single day, despite what you may be thinking at times. It is a hard job, but it can also be very rewarding. Good luck to you!

otilika · Feb 16, 2012

I started working in an Assisted Living facility recently, and honestly I like the evening shift (3-11) much better! There aren't as many events going on in the evening, and thus I don't have to rush everybody; also, after about 9 pm most residents are asleep, so I have a little time to catch my breath. Although the only negative that I found is that on my first day by myself, two of my residents fell asleep early (about 7.30) (they got in bed by themselves and got changed in the pyjamas) and I didn't manage to help them wash.. I felt really bad and guilty, but also assigning 13 residents to a fresh-off-the boat CNA is a little much, or maybe not.

BrandonLPN, LPN · Feb 19, 2012

Honestly, when I was a CNA I found 3-11 to be less demanding. Several of your residents will want to go to bed soon after dinner. The rest not too long after that. And putting someone down for the night is *much* easier then getting them up in the morning. Also, less upper management around on 3-11, so that's always a plus.

LaterAlligator · Feb 20, 2012

Eve shift is probably your best bet as a new CNA. The only drawback is sundowning residents. Otherwise, it tends to be a little slower paced than day shift, with more staff around to help than there is on night shift. Good luck!