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Discussion

Day Shift or Night shift?

Hello. I just completed my CNA training program and am currently waiting to get a test date. I am studying/practicing the skills and hopefully I will be able to pass the test. While I wait, I’m trying to figure out what job openings are available in my area and I have a few questions.

Firstly, what shift do you think is best for a new CNA?

I plan to work in a hospital (I paid for a CNA + PCT course) and many hospitals in my area are looking for PCTs. Most of the jobs listed are night shifts. I want to be able to gain lots of experience and really get my “foot in the door” since I do want to complete a BSN and become an RN. Would the day shift be “too hectic” for a new CNA/PCT? Is the night shift too slow? I would *love* a 3-11 shift but from what i’ve seen they’re kind of rare. Is it okay to start out in night shift for a few months and then switch?

Also, if you have any tips for me in regards to the State Test or as a future new CNA I would appreciate them!

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    I found it easier to find a night shift job than it was to find a day shift job. It’s not exactly slower because most patients in the hospital don’t sleep at night. There is just less commotion going on because family, management and other healthcare providers aren’t there. I will say, you will learn how to manage your time on nights because you usually have more patients than you would on day shift. The only thing I will say about nights is you have to learn how to take care of your body because it can be hard on you.

    Day shift wouldn’t really be too hard, it’s just a different kind of busy. You usually have less patients but more hygiene and you will run into more people.

    Only other advice that I have for you is to be a sponge and soak up everything you learn and don’t take anything personal. It’s a rough job but an amazing and rewarding learning experience.

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    11 hours ago, futurenurselala said:

    I found it easier to find a night shift job than it was to find a day shift job. It’s not exactly slower because most patients in the hospital don’t sleep at night. There is just less commotion going on because family, management and other healthcare providers aren’t there. I will say, you will learn how to manage your time on nights because you usually have more patients than you would on day shift. The only thing I will say about nights is you have to learn how to take care of your body because it can be hard on you.

    Day shift wouldn’t really be too hard, it’s just a different kind of busy. You usually have less patients but more hygiene and you will run into more people.

    Only other advice that I have for you is to be a sponge and soak up everything you learn and don’t take anything personal. It’s a rough job but an amazing and rewarding learning experience.

    Thank you so much for your advice! And yes, I am finding that there are more night shifts are available than day shifts. Hopefully I can pass my test and get a job at a hospital soon! Whichever shift I will make sure I follow your advice.

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