Petite CNA?

Nurses General Nursing

Published

This my first post. First off, I'm petite (5' 100lbs). I'm in school completing my pre-reqs and plan to start nursing school in Sept. I want to work as a CNA while in school to better prepare myself. I have to know if my size will affect being able to safely work as a CNA as well as RN?

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Specializes in M/S, Travel Nursing, Pulmonary.

Nah. Only thing you might have to worry about is pt. lifting. Just be a team member from the start and the better/more team focused nurses will help. Heck, even big people need help lifting, so it's not like you are asking for anything you wouldn't need anyway.

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Specializes in L&D.

If this helps you any, I am 5'4" and 114 lbs., and it hasn't affected my care. I did my CNA clinical at a no-lift nursing home, though. I could turn residents easily, and help them transfer without a problem. It's all how you use body mechanics, and get help if you need it. I do home health right now, and I haven't had a problem. (:

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Specializes in M/S, Travel Nursing, Pulmonary.

Forgot to mention: Be especially nice the the PT/OT dept. at your place. The managers and more experienced PT people often teach the "lifting" classes. Go to one and do as they say. Don't take shortcuts when lifting is involved.

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Specializes in LTC.

I'm 4'11 and no where near 100 pounds lol..

I do not have a problem with being short. I ask for help if I can't turn someone on my own.

Also needed that help less and less when I started building my upper body strength.

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Thanks you guys! You all are very kind and helpful. :heartbeat

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Specializes in Emergency.

First of all, that is an excellent plan - working as a CNA before/during nursing school to get real experience in the medical field! When you lift, make sure you use proper techniques - you may often need a two person assist and/or use a machine to assist with certain patients.

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Specializes in Hospice.

Am about your height but got no problem... i help my co-worker and they return the favor. Always use proper body mechanics.. Good luck your career.

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One of my residents that is a quadriplegic said that one of her best aids in her whole life has been the smallest one that she had. I think its just important to make sure to ask for help when you need it, and maintain proper body alignment.

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I am 5 foot 2 and am a CNA. I am a lot heavier then you but am able to do the job. I also have a friend you was a care giver and she was thin and petite and she told me she had problems with the obese residents.

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Nope! I'm 5'2 and 106lbs and I worked as a nurse tech for 2 yrs doing Float (So many different floors..including vented ICU pt), it takes 2+ people to turn anyways so you'll be fine! (However, I do work in peds now and that has minimal lifting, but still there are always a few that weigh more than you!)

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