How does this sound???

Are you in a union? In my facility we are allowed two 15 min breaks and one 30 break. We work for 8 hours but get paid for 7.50. I know CNAs at my facility where if they don't have time for their lunch break, they will go to the staff lounge after their shift ends so when they punch out they get 8.00 hours. I personally don't care if I take a break. I'd rather leave on time than take my lunch break and fall behind with my work. When I work at night, I take all my breaks because I have my routine and it's easier. But during afternoon shifts I pretty much don't have time (10+ showers and something unexpected always happens) and don't take a break unless there are no call-offs.

If I were you I would just go on my break. This is your right (I believe it's even a state law). But hold off with assigned breaks. I personally don't like assigned breaks. Just tell your partner (or whoever works on that floor/unit) and nurse that you are going and tell them to check on your residents.

When I was working in a rehab, I never got a break either. I punched out for 30 min. b/c if I didnt, I would not get paid for the entire shift. Yes, there was a union..and the place was still very dilapidated & understaffed.

I think this is actually common. Its the same way where I work. We dont get breaks per se. We work the full 8 hour shift straight through, and if we get mandated for another shift, we work that one through without a break. Its crazy but Ive gotten used to it. This is probably the only job Ive worked where people would tolerate it. In past jobs Ive done workers would go nuts if this was a daily occurance.

Ive done some grueling back breaking work in my life prior to becoming a CNA, but Im continually amazed at some of the stuff I see CNAs put up with without complaint. Working construction was a lot harder work at times, but I dont think I ever worked 16 hours straight without any type of break whatsoever, not even a smoke break. On one hand I admire the CNAs I work with for their dedication, but at times this mindset can be annoying because management comes to expect it, so I feel like were being exploited. God knows the RNs would never put up with the same treatment.