I am currently a student who wants to become a nurse so badly. I'm doing a few more prereqs for an Accelerated BSN program since I already have a bachelor's degree. I did a CNA class and started working at a nursing home a few months ago, as my first CNA job.... it was honestly too much and I've just given my two weeks notice. I'm wondering if anyone has had the same experience? It's got me freaking worried that I won't like being a nurse
Things I do not like about it:
I was given 3 days of training and then thrown on the floor left to my own devices
I'm assigned way too many patients at once (10-15), which means I don't have enough time to devote the level of care I want to give each of them
With that many patients, call lights are never ending, and I never even have time for a break let alone to catch my breath
It's extremely physical - lifting/turning patients who are contracted or disabled, and many of them were overweight - it feels like back breaking work
Being screamed at and sworn at by combative patients and having to deal with it 100% on my own as a new CNA... I can handle it but I wish the nurse or on of the admins would follow up and talk to the patient
Things I do like about it:
I really enjoy connecting with patients and encouraging them to be as independent as possible as part of their therapy (on the short-term rehab wing of course not long term wing, and seeing them make great personal accomplishments as the weeks go by. I really like connecting with their families/visitors too
Love feeling like I'm making a difference in people's lives
I've gotten so many compliments from the more alert/oriented patients saying that they really trust me and that I work hard and do a good job, they are super sweet and tell me I'm going to be a great nurse, which of course melts my heart
I don't mind the dirty work that comes with the job such as bathroom duties and cleaning patients bottoms. I feel comfortable touching patients and interacting with them, and I feel like despite the craziness, I've got a good bedside manner. I just think that LTC might not be for me. Any suggestions?????
Update: I am having no luck... I submit hospital applications, at least one per day. They have told me that other applicants have more experience. Feeling a bit discouraged but hanging in there...
Update: I am having no luck... I submit hospital applications, at least one per day. They have told me that other applicants have more experience. Feeling a bit discouraged but hanging in there...
I'm sorry but indeed getting a CNA job in hospitals can be very hard. There can be many many apps for a single CNA job. If there is no one you know that works at the hospital that can maybe put in a good word for you it can be hard.
Have you thought of other areas that may peak your interest. There are so many other places you could get a CNA job that might be easier to get and you may enjoy as well.
gizm0
22 Posts
Update: I am having no luck... I submit hospital applications, at least one per day. They have told me that other applicants have more experience. Feeling a bit discouraged but hanging in there...