Best shift for a new CNA?

Nursing Students CNA/MA

Published

Specializes in Nursing Assistant.

Hi all! By reading several threads it sounds like just about every shift is very busy. Is there any advice as to what shift is the most favorable one for a brand new CNA? I know there's going to be a learning curve, just as there is with any new job. I'm ready to dive right in, but if there's a shift that is better to "ease into", I'd really like to know which one it is. Thank you for any advice!! :D

Specializes in LTC, Rehab, CCU, Alzheimers, Med-Surg.

I would recommend 2nd shift. Something like 2-10 or 3-11. You only have one meal, and it is easier putting people to bed than it is getting them up. You don't have PT around, or very many activities going on to interrupt you. You even have a little bit of downtime at the end of your shift to chart and answer call lights without being completely stressed. The other cna's will also be more likely to help you because they will be less busy.

And one more thing, admin leaves at 4-ish, so you don't have to deal with them for most of your shift!

Specializes in Geriatrics.

I would recommend 2nd shift, for the reasons the above poster mentioned. Most of the job postings I see for CNA's, at least in my area, are for 2nd shift. A lot of people don't like working that shift, because it consumes most of your day.

I started out as a brand new CNA on 1st shift, but I work in assisted living, so it was a little easier to ease into. It took me about a month to really feel competent with my skills and to not feel as "slow" as I did in the beginning. No matter what shift you work, there's going to be an adjustment period.

I work 3rd shift right now while I'm in nursing school, and I LOVE it. No management around, and you have time to actually do your job. The only thing about working that shift when you're a new CNA, is that if emergencies or other things happen, there's less staff around to help.

Good luck with whatever you decide!

Specializes in LTC.

I also say 2nd shift is best.

It's horrible; it ruins your sleep pattern and makes you lazy (or at least it did that to me- I couldn't go to bed at night, couldn't get up for classes, couldn't get motivated to do anything before work), but some people like it. It's the easiest shift to learn on because it's not as busy as 1st shift but it's not like nights where all you do is change people. I'm on 1st now but I'm glad I started on second shift because of the crappier staffing and the downtime at the end- both of those things allow you to work on your time management.

Specializes in Nursing Assistant.

Thank you so much for the advice and input!! I really do appreciate it. I will definitely take all this information into consideration. And thanks for replying so quickly! :yeah:

Specializes in Med-Surg/urology.

Yes I definitely recommend 2nd. 1st shift is for those who are very fast paced & 3rd shift is for those who can handle taking on heavier loads.

I would recommend 2nd shift because you basically just have to change them,feed them and get them ready for bed.I love working 2nd shift.I worked a 6-2 shift I didn't like it was way to early to get up.You have to get the residents up dress them,give bed baths take vitals lat them back down for a nap.I worked 3rd shift also it wasn't to bad.You just have to go in the residents rooms alot and check to make sure they are not wet some residents hate this.I wonder how they even get enough sleep.The 2nd shift is the way to go and at some facilities they pay you extra for working the 2nd shift or 3rd shift.Good luck!!

Specializes in CNA/ ALF & Hospital.
Hi all! By reading several threads it sounds like just about every shift is very busy. Is there any advice as to what shift is the most favorable one for a brand new CNA? I know there's going to be a learning curve, just as there is with any new job. I'm ready to dive right in, but if there's a shift that is better to "ease into", I'd really like to know which one it is. Thank you for any advice!! :D

Personally to me , its second shift!

I would think any shift just to get your foot in the door

Specializes in 6 yrs LTC, 1 yr MedSurg, Wound Care.

The job I have now is my first (been there almost 9 months) and I work days. It is super busy and you will most likely get thrown into it, Ive seen this happen several times. I've never worked 2nd shift, but I have gone up to my job in the evenings to drop stuff off for my residents, and the whole atmosphere is different. It's more laid back and not as stressful. There's usually a shift differential too which helps.

If it doesn't make any difference to you what shift you work, I'd shoot for 2nd. Good luck with your job hunt!

Dondie

Specializes in Nursing Assistant.

Thank you! This advice from everyone is VERY helpful! I got my first CNA job...just waiting on the background check before they schedule me for orientation. VERY excited!!! It will be per diem to start, which is fine. I feel really good about the facility, the people, and the pay they are starting me out at. So hopefully I can participate in threads that involve shift experiences real soon!! Thanks again for the advice....it's very much appreciated. :yeah:

Specializes in family medicine.

I work 3rd shift, and I love it!! Ive oriented 7-3 and don't like it too much, I've worked a few 3-11 shifts and don't like it either. Too many things are going on and you have showers ! Not a bad thing but it's more work. Disadvantage about night shift is you have to deal with the residents that are agitated, confused, and combative also verbal abuse and the worst is a resident having an episode during your last rounds, resulting in not being able to make sure everyone is clean and dry before you go home. Also biggest disadvantage in my opinion is, if I work tonight, I can sleep all day until it's time for work again ( that is if I have nothing planned ) hope this helps your decision :)

+ Add a Comment