First day of CNA Orientation- what to expect???

MechelleMyBell · Sep 22, 2016

Hi

idk about orientation but just want to say that those other CNAs are just ppl who use to be in ur same situation. We are all just ppl on the same level so don't be intimidated. If ppl shun you, it's usually bc they are threaten by you being there so hold your head high and be confident. Good luck to you !

honeyforasalteyfish · Sep 24, 2016

Well everywhere is different. The best people you could orient with though would make you be hands on, while not putting any one in an awkward position.

I would try to learn by doing as much as you can. It will make you more comfortable as you go on.

Gooood Luck!!!

Clarifier S'il vous · Sep 24, 2016

I know you posted this a few days ago, but just wanted to offer some insight. I think orientation can make the job seem more difficult than it actually is. For me, it was harder to watch someone do something over and over than it was to actually do it myself without someone watching over my shoulder. Orientation was really overwhelming for me, as were my first few days off of orientation. Things are going a lot better for me now, only a couple of months later.

My advice about avoiding the cold shoulder after orientation is to try to be very positive on the job. It always helps if you start off with a sincere compliment when you meet a new person, something like "Cute scrubs! Where'd you get them?" or "Nice haircut!". If you get around to it, ask about their interests, etc. It generally helps break the ice in a good way. Be sure to gauge your interaction to the personality of the person. If they are the joking type, it's okay to kid around a little bit. If they are very serious, be super professional with/around that person.

If you suddenly have a few different tasks thrown your way, do your best to take it in stride, even if you are melting down on the inside. Be prepared to assist other CNAs when they need a second person to help with a 2-person lift, etc, and try not to keep them waiting. Of course, don't leave your patient hanging, but if you are charting or making a bed, make it a point to get to it as quickly as possible.

Remember, as a new CNA, you will really have to hustle to get all of your assignments complete for the day. You might see the other CNAs looking all relaxed and not moving around so fast, but they know what has to be done and for them, their job is now second nature.

One thing they love to see (and hate not to see) is that you go the extra mile. Don't leave those trash and laundry bags full. Get them emptied before they are too heavy to toss in the bin. Be sure your patients have fresh pitchers of water before the end of every shift. Get the beds and rooms tidied up as early as possible and be sure they are ready to go for the next shift. Make sure all your patients are changed and in clean clothing, looking appropriate all shift long, but especially right before the next shift comes on board. Be prepared to give/take report on time. If you keep up with these tasks, one day you will be surprised when someone leans over your shoulder and says, "You're good!" That's a great feeling! :)

Maddieee16 · Sep 28, 2016

Hello,

I just started working my first CNA job back in June (today actually marks my 3 months of working at my job), and when I was in CNA clinicals I was really nervous, and would try to do the minimum of what I had to do because I was scared I wasn't doing things right, or I would hurt someone, I wasn't used to the smells, etc.

Some CNAs can be cold or rather unfriendly but honestly the more I started talking the more people seemed to like me. I'd say I'm pretty close to 75% of the people I work with.

You get used to working as a CNA very fast. Obviously I'm not an expert considering I haven't been doing this for long, but the smells don't (usually) bother me anymore, I'm not afraid to change people or turn them in bed or dress them. It will be scary for the first week or two, especially when you start working on the floor on your own, but you'll get used to it sooner than you know it.

When you are in orientation pay close attention to how your trainer deals with or handles residents. Ask as many questions as you can think of! Behavioral issues, dietary restrictions, and different quirks about all your residents. I have residents who are picky about certain things.. Maybe they like to sleep with a pillow under their leg, or sleep with the bathroom light on, maybe they like to have a hand towel around their neck when they eat their food, maybe they like their bed made a certain way. I have realized that if you take the time to learn these unique things and remember them, the residents will really appreciate it and seem to like you more.

I wish you the best of luck in your journey, it's a crazy ride but it is worth it!

xxCourt96xx · Sep 29, 2016

I forgot I posted this...whoops. Thanks everyone who commented. Today was my first day on my own and everything is going pretty okay as far as I'm concerned. I'm trying and that's all that matters...all the other CNA'S I work with are extremely helpful and nice to me, not b**chy like people have said on here. I guess it just depends on where you work at.