Hello, all. I am training to become a CNA now and start nursing school next week. The only problem I am having is handling the strong smell of feces. For some reason, I can change my cats' litter boxes and thatsmell doesn't bother me, babies' diapers don't bother me at all, but the smell of adult feces kind of makes me want to gag. My CNA changed a colostomy bag last night and I know they're going to make me dothat at some point. I wish I could stop my nose from working while on duty, then I'd be fine. :) I have heard that putting a little Vicks under your nose helps. Any other tips would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks so much!
blackbird singing 167 Posts Has 1 years experience. Jan 10, 2012 Even some seasoned nurses can't stand the smell of colostomy bags! The only advice I have is: you will get used to it. That's probably why changing your cat's litter box doesn't make you gag... you know you have to do it all the time, so you deal with the smell. I carry around a small 2 oz bottle of air freshener in my pocket (from our clean hold), so when the smell is real bad, i spritz a lot upon leaving the room, while smiling and politely telling them I'm just trying to freshen it up in there. Most people don't care, and some even tell me to come prepared with the spray! haha. Yeah, sorry for the lack of advice, but I promise it will get better!
Editorial Team / Admin sirI, MSN, APRN, NP 18 Articles; 30,653 Posts Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB. Jan 10, 2012 Here are some threads with many helpful tips:https://allnurses.com/cna-ma-nursing/smell-538711.html https://allnurses.com/general-nursing-student/any-tips-smells-650847.htmlhttps://allnurses.com/general-nursing-discussion/how-do-you-556581.html
Chesh 10 Posts Jan 10, 2012 I used to spray a little perfume on the shoulder of my uniform and when the smells get a bit overwhelming I'd just turn my nose into my shoulder and sniff the perfume. Vick's can be good but for some it makes their eyes water which can be another problem if you have soiled glove on.
lilpeapods 99 Posts Jan 11, 2012 at the hospital where i work, RNs and CNAs wear surgical masks if the odor is really unbearable. it helps a little but doesn't completely shield you from the smell.
bigboi 135 Posts Jan 11, 2012 Overtime you'll get used to it. I was like that the first time I encountered a GI bleed.
Godisthere 31 Posts Jan 11, 2012 Wow! Great suggestions! Like everyone said, You'll get used to it....I did:) it does take awhile tho...I just thought of something else during "the procedure" like, "Gee, at least I'm NOT dealing with puke!" LOL :)
tomc5555 250 Posts Has 2 years experience. Jan 11, 2012 Hello, all. I am training to become a CNA now and start nursing school next week. The only problem I am having is handling the strong smell of feces. For some reason, I can change my cats' litter boxes and thatsmell doesn't bother me, babies' diapers don't bother me at all, but the smell of adult feces kind of makes me want to gag. My CNA changed a colostomy bag last night and I know they're going to make me dothat at some point. I wish I could stop my nose from working while on duty, then I'd be fine. :) I have heard that putting a little Vicks under your nose helps. Any other tips would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks so much!I changed my perception to elimination being a normal body function. After that I don't mind it. Don't forget to report observed changes in elimination or constipation!
nursingstudent3109 37 Posts Jan 11, 2012 Thanks, everyone, for the great suggestions! I do hope I get desensitized over time. I'm going to try all these suggestions and find the best one for me. Unfortunately, though, we're not allowed to wear masks unless there's a risk of splatter; can't wear one just because it's stinky. LOL
