First CNA job with home healthcare?

Nurses General Nursing

Published

Hi! I got my CNA license last year and I've finally got a job with a home healthcare agency. I'm pretty nervous and I was hoping for some advice/tips? I've never worked as a CNA before so I'm not sure what to expect, and I've seen a lot of posts about new CNAs in LTC or AL facilities, but not many for home health. Since I will be spending a lot of time one on one, I'm scared I will be awkward and not be able to generate conversation with my clients.

Anything helps!

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho, ASC.

Perhaps ask your question on a CNA forum rather than a nursing forum?

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Specializes in Registered Nurse.

Hi. I think you will be fine. You will find that most people like talking about themselves . Your clients will take the lead and you can nod, listen and ask questions. Some patient's will tell you their whole life story of misadventures in healthcare. You might say "Hhmmm, oh my really....." Some talk about children or grandchilderen. If worse comes to worse mention something in the news, preferably not political, and get their opinion. You should do most of the listening, but sharing a common interest like a hobby with a short personal story will not be out of line. Chances are you will be so busy learning your new task and responsibilities, you won't be doing that much talking. It's normal to be nervous in your first job. If possible, learn as much about your patient prior to the visit so that you know what to expect when you get there. If you don't know something, research it after the day is over so you will be more prepared the next time. CNA's play a vital role in the care of the patient.Congrats on your new job. :)

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Sorry, I have no idea how this website works. It took me twenty minutes just to post this question....

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That makes sense. I'm just so nervous, I think it's getting to me! Thanks for your input!

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Specializes in Home Health, Hospice, LTC.

The CNA/HHAs that work with my patients really get to know the patient well and will alert me if anything changes or they are worried about something. The one thing I would like to stress (because it is my pet peeve) please do not give any medical or medicinal recommendations. You probably won't, but I have seen it happen. Good luck, and you will do fine.

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