New CNA any advice?

[KelseyAdams]

Hi! I'm new to this website and also new to being a CNA. I actually haven't even started my job yet! I start in five days at a local nursing home in a tiny tiny town in Kansas. I'm very very nervous and have been referring back to my CNA book and taking down notes the past few days. I just graduated high school two days ago and plan to pursue a career in nursing. I will be getting my associates in science at my local college starting in the fall and I am going to receive my CMA this summer. I then plan to go on to get my RN, BSN, and then hopefully masters. The nursing home that I will soon be working at is the same one I took my clinicals in a year ago to recieve my CNA. During my clinicals, I got along with most of the staff, but noticed quite a few of the CNA's not exactly having the best attitudes about their job and it bothered me. I think this is the main reason why I am so nervous to start. Mainly because of the people that I will be working with, not my duties or responsibilities. If any experienced CNA's would like to give me any advice or any newcoming CNA's, as myself, would like to discuss anything I would definitely appreciate it! I am glad to know I now have a place to rant or gloat about the many happenings that Im sure I will be experiencing soon!

[somekindofstrange]

If you can stay as far away from LTC as you can. Most of the burnt out CNAs tend to be within these facilities so I would not recommend them. However, if you can plan on working in these facilities then do so for at least 1 year so you can secure a Patient Care Tech position at a local hospital. Assuming that you are a female then try to get a HHA certification/training so you can get hired at a Home Health Agency. Best of luck to you.

[cna23]

When I first started, I was very nervous, which is totally normal, DO NOT be afraid To ask for help, you will learn nothing, and become one of those "horrible aides" nobody wants to follow when its shift change. Good luck‚ and you'll soon be giving advice to new Cna's before you know it. All of us was once new to the job once before. Just remember that, and you'll be fine. I promise!