New CNA looking for jobs, full day shift?

[Wolfmoon]

I'm a new CNA, I have been applying for jobs; and I just got my first interview from an HCR Manorcare in my area. I'm still waiting to hear back from the other nursing homes that I have applied to. The DON who interviewed me at the HCR Manocare told me I could either work a 3-11 PM shift or a 11-7 AM shift. Recently, I have found a new nursing home that I am interested in applying a job to. However, they only offer an opening for a "Full day shift" which would be from 7AM-7PM, so instead of an eight hour shift, a twelve hour shift. Btw, this shift would be three days a week, plus working every other weekend. My question is, I am a new CNA with no prior expirience. Would any of you suggest a twelve hour shift, to a new, unexpirienced CNA or is that just a bad idea? I know it would be very challenging, but it would probably provide good expirience. What shifts/hours would any of you suggest for a new CNA with no expirience?

Thanks!

[hookyarnandblanket]

If you have no experience other than clinicals, I suggest taking a 2nd shift position. Day shift is very fast paced and most inexperienced CNAs struggle with developing speed, accuracy, and routine on day shifts as their first position; I have seen not one but three inexperienced CNAs put our entire team behind because they couldn't keep up the pace of day shift, and we are a very small hospital. 3p-11p gives you some flexibility to develop your own routine and speed as well as experience in both the behaviors and needs of residents during the day time and night time.

[jjmm RN,BSN]

Hmm as a nurse I love 12s, but when I was a CNA I don't think I would have liked it. Also the previous poster is right. The morning is extremely hectic for a brand new CNA. Big rush to get everyone ready for breakfast in a short time. I was a 3-11 CNA when I was brand new and it was good for learning time management. You have a couple hours to get everybody toileted and ready for dinner.

[Missingyou, CNA]

I have worked both 1st and 2nd shifts in nursing homes. Each shift has it's challenges.

First shift is very busy and fast paced. You have to be more organized and be able to move quickly and have alot of confidence in what you're doing.

Second shift, while not as fast paced, has more of the sundowners behaviors which can easily get you off routine and behind in a heartbeat. You need to be flexible with your routine and have alot of patience.

Both shifts require that you be able to work together in a team and not let the frustration of a slow or combative resident get the best of you when you are trying to meet the needs of 10-15 people.