Published Apr 12, 2010
leaharagon
9 Posts
Hi all, I'm 18, my CNA class starts tomorrow at my hometown's adult school. I was at a university first semester but that didn't work out. Don't worry, going to community college to finish prerequisites before applying to CSU BSN programs! Anyways, the class is Tuesday - Thursday 8:00AM - 4:30 PM for 10 weeks. Any advice will help! :redbeathe
eveningsky339, LPN
170 Posts
Really work on getting familiar with medical terminology. Be aware that there will be a discrepancy from what you learn to do in class and "the real world." Identify your biggest obstacle (e.g. peri-care) and think of was to overcome that obstacle. Don't be afraid to drill your instructor with questions!
Good luck. I just finished my CNA course in March. :)
CoffeemateCNA
903 Posts
I agree, medical terminology IS important.
Nothing annoys me more than getting report and being told Mr. Smith just got back from the doctor today and was diagnosed with severe "enemas." Uh, do you mean "anemia?" :)
Learn as much as you can from your books while in class, but remember that most of your knowledge will come from real-life experience once you're out on your own.
BeJuled
78 Posts
I just finished my CNA class and just passed the state exam on Saturday....and I would have to refer to eveningsky's post about knowing the difference between what you learn at clinicals and what you need to know to pass the test because it is very different! I enjoyed my class a lot!
topher-67
85 Posts
First of all relax....you can do it! If your instructor has a lot of hand outs put short notes on those. Don't waste too much time taking notes though. Keep you eyes, ears, and mind open. Good luck!
Thanks! I love the class, but 8 hours is sooo long to be sitting in a classroom! Can't wait until clinicals! I felt weird because I didn't take many notes, but I think you're right. It's not that kind of class.
Ev1987
347 Posts
I love the class, but 8 hours is sooo long to be sitting in a classroom! Can't wait until clinicals!
I felt the same way too, couldn't wait for some action! But the textbook/classroom stuff is essential and very important to know before getting on the floor. It pays off big time.