How long before you felt comfortable as a nurse assistant?

Published

As you may know, I just started a new job as a NA. I've worked a grand total of 3 shifts so far (I'm PRN). I wonder when I will feel like I know where everything is and who everybody is (so I know who to get report from), stuff like that. I'm sure it will take time because I'm not there as much as a PT or FT person. I feel pretty comfortable with most of the tasks, but there are a few that I have yet to perform on a real person--catheterization comes to mind. Will I remember how when the time comes? Also, I have a hard time keeping track of which pt is which. I write down the room #, pt's name, and pertinent info, of course; I suppose over time that will be easier too. The first two shifts I was paired with another person; the last shift I requested to be with another person because I didn't feel ready to be on my own; now I think I could be on my own, at least for the routine stuff. Being a newbie is hard!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hey Diana, sorry, no pearls of wisdom here. My closest experience to nursing so far has been volunteering at a nearby hospital. I just wanted to wish you luck. I'm sure it will get easier with time.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Diana,

Sometimes it takes time to get used to the routine. When I started my job (on a med-surg floor), I remember thinking "How will I even remember all the nurses' names, let alone the pts!" LOL I work p/t, & it's hard to get used to just getting someones' name down, only to have them d/c'd. If I don't go to report, I look @ the Kardex to get names, find out if they're diabetics, DNR.... The nurses were a great help too, if I have any questions about anyone. Good luck with your job! :D

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Well, let's see. I've been a nurse for 27+ years, was a NA for the last year I was in school, should feel comfortable as a NA in a few years.

No really, it too me about 3-4 months to start to feel I could hold my own with the other NAs on nights. That coincided with going back to school and I really took off as an NA after that--the more I learned, the better aide I became. Was I ever as good a NA as the people who did it FT, no that wasn't why I was doing it or my goal. Do I understand the work. You bet I do.

Ask the questions you need to ask. Engage nurses in conversation if there's time. Help others when you can and even when you don't feel you have the time. It helps build relationships and proves you're willing to help and learn from others.

Good Luck.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

i totally agree with Dr. Kate.

i've been a NA at a long term care facility and in an ER. each time, it was about a month before i was really comfortable with where 90% of the things were located.

give it time. 3 shifts definitely is not long enough to feel comfortable, IMO.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion