Advise on how to be a more assertive Charge nurse

Specialties Geriatric

Published

Specializes in LTC.

I have been told I let my CNA manipulate me and I don't see it, but could I get some advice on how to be more assertive so to say, I am a new nurse and have only been an nurse for about 7 months and some days I just feel like I did not learn anything in school? Help???/

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The phase "I want you to..." or "I need you to..."or Please do such and such has always worked for me. Say it with authority but be sweet because noone likes to be bossed around.

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Specializes in Tele/ICU/MedSurg/Peds/SubAcute/LTC/Alz.

Oh I am very new. I thank my CNA's for helping me all the time. ;)

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Specializes in med/surg, telemetry, IV therapy, mgmt.

Anybody outside of a supervisor/manager or a preceptor who has the balls to tell you that you are being manipulated by your CNA should be able to tell you exactly how the CNA is doing that, especially if they are telling you this "as your friend". If they're not, pin them down and ask them to give you a specific example. If they can't do that, then they are playing some kind of nasty little game with you. It is quite possible that you really are a very nice person who gets along with your CNAs and some of your other co-workers resent that.

When a supervisor/manager gives a criticism like this, they should also give examples to back up this assessment because the word manipulation is a subjective term. A good supervisor/manager would also suggest strategies to help a subordinate learn to deal with the situation.

Based on the what you posted, I think someone is trying to rattle your cage because they might be jealous that you have a good relationship with your CNAs. Is that possible?

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Yes I agree - look out for the "green-eyed" ones. Sad but true some people (not just in nursing) have to have a go at you because they cannot stand you making a success of your new position!

Stick to the great advice above, best foot forward and good luck.

I have found that when people come up with these little nasties, yes question them - - - "Why do you say that?" and wait for an answer.

Seem to work a lot of the time.

Best wishes for a great future.

Mister Chris.

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Specializes in ICU, CCU, Trauma, neuro, Geriatrics.

Find a good mentor and ignore the naysayers.

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Specializes in LTC, home health, critical care, pulmonary nursing.

Yeah, you need examples. You can't fix what's broke if you don't really know what's broke.

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Specializes in HH/LTC/WM.

:clown:Alright here's whats up. I do as I say and say as I do. Yes its corny. On one of your slow days watch for lights or some crap to do you usually wouldnt do if you were busy that would help your CNA out. Make sure they see and aknowledge what you have done (dont make this a habit or they will expect it everytime.) This lets them know that you can do thier job without complaining. Then next time they start getting out of line just give them the look and say "Look I know what you do is hard work, and I respect that, but you are getting alittle outta line." If they get really pissed off or do anything you deem to be insobordent tell them to clock out and go home. Thats when you develope a sudden respect from all of the other CNA's because they now know that your not messing around. Its really not fun but you have to build a trust and respect with your CNA's or just let them know you arent going to take any crap off of them. You will end up using both methods at sometime or another, but hopefully just the first one. PS just remember they didnt work hard for your Liscense, you did, and thats your butt on the line.

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