nervous

[o cherie]

So in 7 days i will be starting cna school in waco tx, and my nerves have the best of me already any tips or advice?

[Proton]

You will be fine. The information is pretty straight forward.

Ask questions in class and give yourself time to re-read/study the material at home. If your textbook is accompanied by a workbook, fill it out, even if it's not required.

I'm weird and I don't like to highlight through my textbooks so I used post-its, but everyone in my class brought highlighters in addition to pens, pencils and notebooks.

If you find there are some skills you aren't picking up in the class, don't be discouraged. I found it to be different transferring skills learned to an actual person during clinicals. Just write down what you feel you need the most help with and ask your instructor to help. When you start clinical ask the cna you're shadowing for extra practice on that specific skill.

We didn't have a lot of structure in that department, so I took it upon myself to go through the 25 skills and make sure I practiced them. We had a few people in our class that only made beds on the resident floors and in my state you're not tested on that.

[Proton]

... So don't get stuck doing their busy work, just so they can finish their work early (not everyone is like that, in fact my CNA's were the best), you're there to learn.

[LaceElaine]

Don't be nervous. A lot of it is common sense. Focus on the skills for state testing. 2 students in my class failed because they missed things on the skills portion. I live in nebraska and we don't get tested on bed making either. Ask your husband, boyfriend, friend if you can practice on them! Clinical is really fun too! I actually miss my class. We got really close through the experience! Just enjoy it! Good luck :)

[kayteachan]

I'm guessing you've already started your CNA class. I am a very nervous and anxious person so imagine my feelings before starting my CNA class. You just have to remember that everyone is probably nervous because everyone there is trying something they probably have never tried before. You'll get used to things quickly and I promise that you'll end up really enjoying the class if you try. I was scared out of my mind for Clinicals and I did mess up a few times but I really liked the experience. It's a great feeling knowing that you're doing something that matters to someone. Good luck and have fun!

[A&Ox6, MSN, RN]

Practice the proper hand washing technique. Both states in which I was certified tested all candidates in hand washing, but the other skills were different.

Also, if you have difficulty with vitals, ask someone to help. It can be difficult for some students, but we've been there. We all have it tricks.

When I had difficulty with blood pressure, a paramedic taught me some hints, and showed me how too practice on myself.

Good luck!

[Rodrinka]

You have no reason to be nervous, everyone is there for the same purpose. Pay attention and do your work. Take notes and study. You will do good.