I dread going to work everyday!

[FutureLPN16]

Working as a CNA is very hard for me. I was almost 2 seconds from quitting my first day. I have been working as a CNA for only about 3 weeks now and I hate it. I hate to say that. Every day as soon as I get to work I can't wait for 330pm to come so I can go home. Every night before I go to bed I'm dreading waking up in the morning hoping I have a good day at work. I'm hoping I get a floor that's not hard. One girl who started the same time as me said she never goes on her lunch break. She never has time. I don't think it fair. They are docking us lunch. I go on my lunch break no matter what! I need my 1 hour to de-stress. I just want to know if anybody out there have any advice on how to cope with the cna work. I'm thinking about moving to the night shift. I heard it's easier than the day shift. I just can't wait to start my LPN program in 2 weeks but I'm worried because I don't even know if I can make it working as a cna for a year while I study for my lpn.

[lilmissetter]

There is a reason why you didn't quit. This is something that you want to do! We all have our good days and our bad days, but just remember that you're doing something great! You are helping people each and every day that you come to work. And being a CNA is hard work! Being a nurse is hard work! But over time it will get easier. Day shift is a tough shift because it is so busy. Evening shift is tough because you will deal with a lot of sundowners. Overnights are tough because it isn't staffed as well and you spend all night checking and changing people and by the time you are done, it's time for your next round. Every shift has its own challenges.

At the end of each day, remember to think about all the good you've done and how many people you have helped. Know that the experiences that you gained will help you to become a better nurse and that you CAN do this. You have people who are very thankful for all that you do every day!

If it gets to be too much, though, you have to take care of yourself too. Trying another shift or cutting back on hours are good options. Just remember to take care of yourself, because you can't take good care of others if you're not good to yourself. Good luck to you in school and on the job. Sometimes the strength you have within yourself will absolutely astound you. Keep on keeping on, and find the right balance that works for you.