Feeling inadequate

[Grace557]

So I'm a CNA student, I'm doing my clinicals and my teacher is so blunt and harsh. I had a hard time the first few days because I was adjusting to the facility, how they do things, etc. I have really bad anxiety so patient interaction was hard for me, because I don't like confrontation, so ex. passing out breakfast asking if they are ready to eat and if they snappily said no, I would say OK I'll come back in a bit. But she was not happy with that, telling me I have to get them up, even if they don't want to. I asked how I'm doing in clinicals and she told me I'm just over the passing line as of right now but she hasn't seen me do much patient care. I feel like I haven't been given the opportunity to do much, because the CNAS precepting us don't really want students and just want to wham bam thank you maam get things done. Which I understand. The facility we are at also has LVN students coming everyday so it's definitely crowded. I am giving my absolute ALL. And I feel like my teacher just thinks I'm falling behind. I've been coming home crying because I feel like she's telling other people "good job" "keep it up" and with me it's eh try harder. But I physically can't try harder. I don't think I'm a slow learner, my anxiety gets in the way a little but I'm getting better, and it hurts when you are trying so hard to no prevail. I just want to be done!! But she is making me feel like I will never be a good CNA. My feelings are just hurt. Any advice? 

[TLocc2018]

I totally get where you're coming from. Adjusting to a new environment and dealing with anxiety can be really tough, especially in a fast-paced clinical setting. When I was in a similar situation, I found this amazing resource called NurseToBee.Beehiiv.com. It's was a game-changer for me. It offers practical tips and techniques for improving nursing skills, and it's really helped me gain confidence in patient care by making me practice NCLEX style questions. I noticed that once I started really focusing on NCLEX my nursing practice improved. Maybe it could be beneficial for you too, especially with your dedication and hard work. Hang in there!

[Julia Liou, RN]

Hi Grace557,

I'm sorry you're having to deal with such a blunt instructor. Have you had a chance to discuss with your peers how they feel, and get tips on how they were able to remain on her good side? I always felt having a good support system around me in school really helped with navigating through these challenges! Especially when your peers can emphasize on a personal level since they're going through the same stressful program as you!

I totally get it! Maybe write down a reflection of your experience and how you felt then find a time to discuss it with your instructor once you've reflected and collected your thoughts. If they don't seem supportive I'd discuss your experience with someone higher up in your school, like a head instructor or coordinator that navigates your placements! They should be there to support you throughout your schooling, so if they have record of you really trying and wanting to do well in the program, they may be able to help you! Sometimes there are personality differences between clinical instructors and students, and it's hard to communicate your concerns if they're hounding you and asking you hard questions in the moment in the clinical placement. That's why I suggest upon reflection to reach out to them later to communicate your thoughts and feelings and voice how passionate you are about succeeding in school! Best of luck, you got this!