I need to quit

JourneyLPN2RN · Nov 14, 2014

I'm currently a CNA as well (until I pass my Nclex-PN boards) and you're pretty much described a Cna's job in a nutshell. I've been doing this for 4 years and I will say that it gets easier. In the beginning I was so overwhelmed and wanted to quit as well but I didn't. It may be hard to see it now but the job is rewarding. I would advise you to go back to school whether you decide to stay or no because you'll end up breaking your back trying to lift a patient twice your size.

nlitened · Nov 14, 2014

Agree with Journey! This is what CNA's do, and it will get better. Being new it can all seem overwhelming. Just learn to prioritize and ask for help when you need it. As far as the the other CNA's, you are not there to make friends and chit chat so I wouldn't let that bother you. Be pleasant of course, they are your coworkers and you will all need to work together. If you are miserable then put your 2 week notice in, but it isn't better anywhere else. And yes, put in the 2 weeks...just up and leaving and never coming back looks bad, and that kind of thing will follow you when you are looking to get hired elsewhere. I do hope you choose to stick it out tho.

studentnurse162484 · Nov 14, 2014

in nursing school, the majority of the things we do revolve around bed changes, baths, mainly things cnas do and rn skills when we get a chance. If you want to go to nursing school I think it would be in your best interest to hang in there and get some experience. it will really put you ahead of the game for nursing school.

johndough · Nov 14, 2014

You're going to get used to it eventually. Maybe next week the load will feel lighter on you. It's hard to work LTC. It's the same routine almost everyday. A lot of bathing and toileting assistance because none of your residents can take care of themselves. My body was in pain when I first started but I was surprised when my back stopped hurting. You need to have a strong back, so try to stretch and gain muscle.

Also, I've been using the Dr. Scholl's insoles for work. I'd like to think they help and cushions the impact.

HakunaMatata<3 · Nov 14, 2014

Being a CNA is HARD work, and it is going to be hard work anywhere you go. However, the the facility you work at and the people you work with can make all the difference. Working at a facility that is understaffed and having crummy coworkers can make you want to quit the job and never be a CNA again. Believe me, I know. But it isn't like that everywhere. I say put your 2 weeks in and start looking for other facilities to work at. Hospitals tend to be difficult to get in to but they are generally less understaffed so try to put in some applications there. There is no reason to "stick it out" as other people are saying, and being miserable if you don't have to.

I hope you find a better facility and are able to see what a rewarding job being a CNA can be!

caliotter3 · Nov 14, 2014

Persevere as long as you can. Give yourself time to acclimate and your coworkers time to accept you. As time goes on more people will help when they see you are willing to help them. Ask one of them to teach you phrases in Spanish "so you can better communicate with Spanish-speaking residents". When your coworkers see that you are trying to fit in, they will be more likely to ease your entry into the work group.

If after a reasonable amount of time, six to nine months at least, if you feel you can not deal with the physical demands of the job, then resign. You need to realize though, that this atmosphere is similar in all facilities. You should then decide if you should pursue another line of work.

Another avenue of coping would be to seek a job in home care after you have about three months experience. You will find working with one patient to be manageable, unless your patient is huge. You can preclude that situation by setting limits with your home health employer concerning the patients you are willing to work with.

Remember that any job requires time to get settled in, no matter what the job duties or what kind of workplace atmosphere. You should always give yourself a chance. Good luck.

caliotter3 · Nov 14, 2014

I forgot to mention the "two person" policy that our nurses used with us. Two CNA's can more efficiently work both their assignments if they work as a team, than either can do by themselves. This eases the strain on both worker's backs, speeds up the tasks at hand, allowing for 'extras' (better all the way around for all), and frees up time to even take turns sitting down waiting on call lights. You should approach your charge nurse to ask for team assignments for these reasons.

holistic 1 · Jun 24, 2015

I know that I'm super duper late but, I just want to say thank you all so much for responding with such wonderful and helpful advice. I didn't even expect anyone to answer but a lot of you did and with really insightful answers. Thank you so much! :)