CNA training program - Opinions? Scary? Exciting?

[AmandaS<3]

Hey all!

In about a week or so I will be starting a CNA training program through a local nursing/retirement home. I'm really excited! Becoming a nurse is my dream job! And taking a CNA class is a great stepping stone in that direction in my opinion. I have been doing a lot of research and reading up on everything possible (what to expect, duties/responsibilities, people's opinions & stories, etc...) I was just wondering if any of you on here were in the same boat as I am? New CNA's w/ some advice, students atm, or anybody just about to take a class aswell. Like I said, I'm really excited but also kind of nervous. I know it's a training program but I don't want to mess up or have my instructor think I'm not right for the job, or once I start working independently... will the nurses really be that mean as everyone describes? And yes the whole point is I'm being TRAINED, but still. I know they're not gonna expect me to know everything & do everything perfectly. I'm also kind of nervous of working w/ elderly people just because I've heard of stories of nurses/CNA's being attacked! Lol... Please reply & let me know anything YOU think I should I know! :)

[Ev1987]

I wish I was lucky enough to have been trained inside of a nursing home. You get a broader perspective of the environment and the needs of the residents. Starting something new can be scary and nerve-wrecking. But remember that the basic reason you're being trained-- is to learn. Take notes in class, practice and study when you get home. If you make a mistake, learn from it and correct it. Just like any workplace, you have nice employees and some nasty ones. And some residents are more temperamental than others. Keep aware of that.