I start CNA classes tonight!

PedsHopeful · Jul 28, 2009

I start my CNA class September 11th and can't wait. Can you guys tell about what the first day of class is like? What you talked about, ect? Is a uniform required? Are stethoscopes required for CNA's? Thanks! :yeah:

GoodtimeRN · Jul 28, 2009

I start my CNA class September 11th and can't wait. Can you guys tell about what the first day of class is like? What you talked about, ect? Is a uniform required? Are stethoscopes required for CNA's? Thanks!

I'm sure every class is different. My class was only 4 weeks, so for the first week we did textbook stuff (learned about what exactly a CNA does, what a care plan is, etc.) We just wore street clothes for that. We didn't start clinicals until the following week, and we wore scrubs. I'm sure your teacher will explain to you exactly what you need to get. At my school we wore navy on top and white on bottom (another school was there while we were and wore all white). You don't need a stethoscope unless you're doing blood pressure (which isn't a requirement here). Clinicals will be scary at first, especially if you haven't been in a nursing home, but you get used to it. I actually really miss my residents! Best luck!!!

NurseCubanitaRN2b, BSN, RN · Jul 28, 2009

I personally don't miss my CNA class. Don't get me wrong, it was a great experience, but it's was time to move on. I was there to get my certification so I could work as a CNA. Now that I did my VN, it's time to move on to the RN program. Now, I do miss my VN program, I miss passing the meds, I miss incerting FC's and data collection in the ER. I miss all that good stuff.

You will find that working as a CNA will be tough, but in the long run it is rewarding. Good Luck to all future CNA's and current CNA's.

Hope Marie · Jul 28, 2009

If you can afford it, it's always best to have your own equipment. That way you not only know the tricks of it, but you always know where to find it . For Oregon, BP and TPR are a required skill and one of them is sure to be on your state skills test so it was worthwhile for me to have my own. I finished my classes last week and take my exam on the 29th of August.

superaunt · Aug 3, 2009

I completely understand the nervous feeling. I start CNA classes tomorrow night and I am freaking out!! I have no idea what to expect and I hate being in situations where I don't know anyone. :confused: The only person I know who's been through the CNA process is my grandma and I'm assuming things are different nowadays. I'm working on a BSN program right now too. So I'm hoping that becoming a CNA will be a step in the right direction and prepare me a little for what's ahead.