CNA class OVERWHELMING

Don't be distracted by the age factor -- I just turned 46 (last day of class) and most of my classmates were young. Even the ones who felt old (29) seemed like babies to me. Isn't it funny how 29 changes with time? So yeah it might seem overwhelming now, but you really need to focus on getting the skill portion down tight. The written test isn't difficult. If your test authority is Headmaster (don't know what state you're in) but you can go to http://www.hdmaster.com and purchase various versions of the written tests for a very reasonable price. I bought five, and I think I did three before I realized how simple they were. So get the skills part down, know when to change gloves and how to respect patient dignity/privacy, and just do the skill! You will know it. I'm spending this week typing up the skills to reinforce in my brain the critical steps. I test Friday. If i don't pass the first time, it's not the end of the world, I'll test again.

CNA pay is poor for the work it entails. If you want to be a CNA, there is no shame in being a CNA and any GOOD RN will assure you as much, because you do the heavy lifting, literally and figuratively. If you love people and truly care about making people live dignified lives when they cannot help themselves, you may find no greater reward than being a CNA. Once you get to that point, then you can evaluate how you feel about going further. Best of luck to you.

Thanks ever so much. I know I am on the right road...sometimes it just seems like so much! I had no idea how much responsiblity this involved - but I am thrilled. It is a bit different from the financial world I lived in for 20 years. Yes, I got laid off last November....going with what is in my heart! :redbeathe Didn't seem as hard until we started with the skills...practice makes perfect. Yes, our backs will be sore...but we will go home with the knowledge we have made a difference. (So I am not too old, yes 29 has changed with time!)

I am in the Tampa Bay, FL area. There are some opportunities being in the retirement state!

Good luck, lorelei1973 on your test!!! You seem to be moving along well...u go girl! Wherever you go, they will be lucky to have you. Thanks again for your WONDERFUL advice.

There's a 52-year old female in our class. She owrks better than we do. Once you get to the clinical portion, the skills get easier.:cheers: Good luck! It gets easier.

KUdo's to u go girl there are always pro's and cons but the most i would say is the lifting so now im a medication tech which i love so much better my dream was to pass medications but now as i get older my dreams seem to change or maybe just getting burnt out been in this field since high school