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Discussion

Better training for CNAs?

I've been a CNA for 20+ years in both LTC and hospitals. After taking care of my own sick parents for 10 years I can finally finish nursing school, but since I was taking care of my mother full time for the last 5 years, I let my CNA license lapse and have to retake the class. I'm not complaining, but coming back to the basic class has me wondering why training for CNAs is so inadequate! There is so little about patient observation or basic disease processes or even anatomy. Nothing about appropriate touch and only a few words about patient rights. Nothing about time management or working with nurses. My instructor brought in a baby doll and passed it around to show that old people are just like helpless babies. The instructors were LPNs and were universally condescending. Its got me thinking- if CNA education was better, would more people be interested in the profession? CNAs are so horribly exploited and underpaid. I feel like the nursing profession has left them in the dust. Do you think more training would help CNAs and LTC residents? Or, is that just never going to happen? I want to work in LTC (Can't say that too loud in nursing school or I get funny looks) and I want to make it better for CNAs as well as residents. Tell me this is possible in some universe.

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    When I took my CNA classes before becoming a Nurse I too was only taught skills. That is because CNA's are not expected to use critical thinking skills. I personally think that mindset is bogus as we do rely on everyone to use common sense when it comes to patient care. I don't think they should however receive in depth A&P classes, but a simple understanding of the importance of I&O, Glucose, Biox, etc, would be helpful. I don't think Nurses have left CNA's in the dust anymore than Doctor's doing the same to Nurses. It's different education levels, different skill sets, and different responsibilities/focuses. Once you are a nurse you will understand this fully.

    You will benefit from having the insight of being a CNA first. And LTC is not a bad thing, it is certainly not for everyone though. Kudos if you feel it is your calling. As a nurse you ability to make a difference is often limited by time constraints. That is why working as a team with your CNA's is best.

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