My first CNA job, any tips?

Published

I just recently got certified and started working in a SNF. I've only been there for 3 weeks. I've never worked on my own doing rounds so at this job I'm doing everything by myself

I didn't know how to do everything alone because in my training we weren't allowed to do anything alone. Always somebody watching.

One of the RNs said I'm "doing a good job" and they're "supportive of me". But I have a feeling that they aren't that pleased with me. Why? I'm just like that: I always assume the worst when people talk to me about my work.

Ok yeah maybe I take a tad longer doing rounds but I'm still trying to get a hang of it. I'll find my groove soon but I'm worried that my colleagues think I'm not very good.

any tips and advice would help adjusting to the first CNA job. Thanks!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I am not sure what shift you are working but I will try to list some advice! Also, if the RN tells you that you are doing a good job, then you better believe it! The RN's and LPN's I Worked with when I started out at a SNF were quick to tell me if I was doing good or bad and they meant it. They will be blunt when they need to be because it's their licenses on the line since we work under them, and if they don't think a person is getting proper care they will say so! So be glad - you must be doing great so far.

Rounds at a SNF must mean just checking people and changing them for incontinence? You'll be able to do the 1 assists on your own but definitely get help on 2 assist patients, seriously. You don't want to hurt yourself rolling heavy and incontinent people.

Other random tips I will try and think of... Answer lights promptly. Report anything "out of ordinary" such as a new behavior or a new mark on the skin to a nurse. Nurses love it when we keep them informed about their residents and show that we are actively trying to keep up with the resident's conditions. Have a little notebook/pad to write down door code #s and any other important information you may need until you have it memorized. Be proactive with helping other CNAs and nurses - I always helped as much as I could so that when I needed help I knew those people would help me in return. Mark down if residents have a BM so you can chart it later, and if you chart I/Os then chart whatever drinks you give them. If you put a female on a bedpan put toilet paper or some sort of barrier in the front so urine doesn't go everywhere. If there is any task at all that you don't feel comfortable doing either from inexperience or it just doesn't feel right, always stop and ask or get another staff member for assistance. If someone tells you that so-and-so is a 1 assist walk to the bathroom and that you can do it on your own but then you go to that resident and she is not feeling well for some reason and can barely walk, then don't do it! Something could be wrong. Or maybe that day they are just feeling weak and need 2 people. Their assistance levels can change depending on their conditions, activity levels, and what's going on with them. If your facility provides gait belts then use those when transferring or walking residents because it will make it a heck of a lot easier.

If you have any other specific questions you could PM me. Speed will come with practice. It is OK to not be speedy at first, you will get there!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank you for all of these tips!!! I really appreciate it :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment