New cna

Published

I just passed my CNA test last week I have been working as a unit helper for a month or so before that and I'm out of habit of what to bring any ideas what to being in my tote bag

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Congrats on passing your exam!! Woo!! :) Are you in LTC or a hospital? I've been a CNA for 3 days now (haha!) and I can already tell you pens, pens and more pens. You also might want your own personal hand sanitizer, lip balm, a small notepad and - if you're allowed to - your own blood pressure cuff/stethoscope. These have a funny way of disappearing though, so keep it with you at all times and don't let anyone borrow it (they're all going to borrow it anyway though, so just be sure you get it back!) GOOD LUCK :up:

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I'm LTC and thanks for the advice but we don't have our one bp cuff or stethoscope I wish we did too lol

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, Med-surg.

Tote bag? Like to carry with you when you work?

Everything you need should fit in your pockets. Get scrubs with tons of pockets, deep pockets. In these pockets have pens, pencils, small note pads, hand sanitizer. I don't know if you take SpO2 where you work (most LTC facilities don't have CNA's take SpO2) but if you do take it, get your pulse oximeter, they're incredibly hard to find. Get a good pair of socks and a comfy pair of shoes and you should be set. Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank you

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Short Term/Skilled.

I agree that whatever you need goes in your pockets. Being a CNA is crazy hard work. I carry gum, a pen, a sharpie, small bottle of lotion and

My assignment with all my patients names, what their dx is, and what their diet is. It's really helpful to know their diet especially, this way if they ask for something you know if they can have it. If you aren't sure ask the nurse ( always). Otherwise, do bring something to eat for when you get a break and keep a change of clothes in your locker. Stay hydrated and fed. You're no goo to anyone if you feel like crap.

"No day but today"

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Acute Rehab, IMCU, ED, med-surg.

Hospital CNA - here's my pocket cargo - red, black and black Sharpie pen, pen light, yellow highlighter, iPhone charging cable, "brain" sheet, alcohol wipes (nurses often need one of these if they've run out of their own pocket stash), iPhone. Items most often lent to others? Black Sharpie, followed by penlight.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Short Term/Skilled.
Hospital CNA - here's my pocket cargo - red black and black Sharpie pen, pen light, yellow highlighter, iPhone charging cable, "brain" sheet, alcohol wipes (nurses often need one of these if they've run out of their own pocket stash), iPhone. Items most often lent to others? Black Sharpie, followed by penlight.[/quote']

Hehe im a hopital cna also. I left out the personal items though. I also carry an electric ciggarette ( i use it in the bathroom) and my i phone. Im so tired fromjust gettingnoff a 12 i almost wrote "eye phone" lmao

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion