Can I be a CNA?

Nurses General Nursing

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I love the idea of being able to help and aide people. I love everything about the nursing feild. BUT I have a feeling that I won't be "trusted" as a CNA. Reason is because I look like a 12 years old max. No one ever believes I'm older than 12 and I'm actually 18. I'm 5 feet 1 inch tall and I only weigh 90 pounds. So I'm really skinny. People say I almost look anorexic but I'm not. I eat a lot. Even my family is surprised that I eat with no limits and I don't gain more than 90 pounds. I know I'm reallyyyy underweight. I don't know what to do because I know CNA's need to be strong.

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You won't have a problem. I look like I'm 12, also. The residents DO get used to it!

And don't be worried about about strength; you'll gain that on-the-job.

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You won't have a problem. I look like I'm 12, also. The residents DO get used to it!

And don't be worried about about strength; you'll gain that on-the-job.

Really? That's great! This really made me smile. It would suck to not be able to have your dream job because of your weak physical abilities. So this really gave me hope :)

I'm even trying to do workouts or anything that will help me gain some strength. I just reallyyyy want this job.

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Come over to the CNA forum:

https://allnurses.com/cna-nursing-assistant/

Hopefully, you'll find many more posts to make you smile.

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Specializes in CNA Geriactrics, LTC.

I agree, you should not let your size hold you back from something you want! The residents at my nursing home always tell me I look too young to be a "nurse" (I'm a CNA). However, once they get used to you, they won't mind! As far as strength, you will learn tricks on how to turn, transfer, etc.

Good luck!!;)

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your story sounds just like mine. you will be fine! my only problem was the first couple of months when i had no confidence or experience so i felt like a 12 year old, which my patients could see. it has been a few years now and i still get the question "how old are you" nearly every day. i just politely respond i am 22.

go for it you could be making the best decision of your life!

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Specializes in NeuroICU/SICU/MICU.

A couple of my classmates in nursing school are tiny. Not as tiny as you sound, but they do look a lot younger than they are. They only had a problem once during clinicals - a confused man complained that he didn't want "kids" taking care of him. So, one bad experience out of how many over a 3-year time span? I think you'll be just great :heartbeat

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I'm under five feet tall and looked about twelve years old until I was about thirty. I managed being a CNA, an LPN, and a paramedic. I've had a few patients refuse me because of my size or age, but not many. It used to bother me, but after a while I decided it was their choice...they could either accept care from me or wait for a taller / older nurse.

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