I've just begun my first nursing job the first of July. The floor mgr states I'm set to go on my own, without a preceptor since I'm doing well. Things have been good until today. I really try to not bother my preceptor, but for some reason today stunk!! Even the CNAs were nasty. I really need the CNAs to help me as I'm so new, but I can almost read their minds...they act like I do nothing!! I had no breaks or lunch today I was so busy. I asked for two sets of vitals to be taken and within a half hour they were done, but my preceptor came over and said something about it. I'm sure it was because the CNA complained to her about me which really frustrates me. I have to say I treat everyone with kindness. I thank the CNAs for all their help. I do my best to keep a great attitude and to this point I have not been a jerk to anyone. Like I said, I'm new and it's too easy to be a jerk to others. I don't want to live like that. I can't tell you how many urinals I emptied today. Should I be letting the CNAs know everytime I do this!!?? Of course not!! I do everything when I have time, but I had a lot of paperwork, meds, etc today and couldn't help the CNAs as much as I would like. Once I feel more at ease, I have no problem helping to change an Attends or whatever is needed. Right now, I'm just struggling to keep my head above water. How do you handle the nasty CNAs/nurses? I'm not expecting life to be perfect, but like I said, I've been great to everyone, and don't expect others to be jerks to me. If I have too many days like today, I won't be staying.
Specializes in med/surg, telemetry, IV therapy, mgmt.
Hmm. Well a lot depends on the individual and the setting..I am a acute care nurse primarily...so perhaps some LTC nurses AND LTC CNA's can best answer your question here.
When I was new I did exactly what Daytonite advised: come up with an assertive response to smart aleck comments and practice them in front of a mirror or with your DH, etc.
I would probably make a comment (even in front of other staff members) that 'I thought we were a team here?? Weren't you new once and didn't you need some help while YOU were first learning your first job out of school??? Give me a break. In time I will get faster and can then return the favor, but for now...I will need and will ask for your help". In time if this kinder approach didn't work, I would take them aside and remind them of their job description and if they were confused about it. This would be related to the manager as a counseling if possible. Then the documentation starts each time you get an attitude.
Last ditch if you have management's backing: I have asked (in front of witnesses): 'Are you refusing to do what I asked you?' In most facilities refusal will be grounds for termination. (check your employee manual)
Now thats just me...others may have their own suggestions which I look forward to reading. Frequently these political/human relation aspects of our job are the hardest to master. Good luck to ya..I remember being new kid on the block!! :)
I agree with you. Love the "Are you refusing to do what I asked you?" comment. It brings back some memmories! The only thing I would differ with you on is the total number of words used when addressing someone. One thing I've learned over the years is to try to keep things short, concise, and impacting. Reason: if I go on for too long (like I tend to do when I'm writing!) I found the other person got bored and either didn't hear anything past the first few words or they'd give up and walk away in the middle of my speech. Taking a breath and giving the other person a chance to respond puts them in a tough spot. It kind of forces them to offer up something. At that point I'm still in control.
Daytonite, BSN, RN
1 Article; 14,604 Posts
I agree with you. Love the "Are you refusing to do what I asked you?" comment. It brings back some memmories! The only thing I would differ with you on is the total number of words used when addressing someone. One thing I've learned over the years is to try to keep things short, concise, and impacting. Reason: if I go on for too long (like I tend to do when I'm writing!) I found the other person got bored and either didn't hear anything past the first few words or they'd give up and walk away in the middle of my speech. Taking a breath and giving the other person a chance to respond puts them in a tough spot. It kind of forces them to offer up something.
At that point I'm still in control.