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.
CoffeemateCNA 903 Posts Apr 9, 2010 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.
curious1991 8 Posts Apr 9, 2010 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.
CoffeemateCNA 903 Posts Apr 9, 2010 Come over to the CNA forum:https://allnurses.com/cna-nursing-assistant/Hopefully, you'll find many more posts to make you smile.
Future RN! 11 Posts Specializes in CNA Geriactrics, LTC. Apr 9, 2010 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!!
justmeinlv 66 Posts Apr 9, 2010 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!
RNMeg 450 Posts Specializes in NeuroICU/SICU/MICU. Apr 9, 2010 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
flashpoint 1 Article; 1,327 Posts Has 23 years experience. Apr 10, 2010 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.
