New CNA

Published

hey everyone, I just wanted to share my first experience as a CNA. I work thrid shift 11pm-7am and attend school during the afternoon (Nursing). Anyway back to the story. The fist night of my orientation was better than I expected. The second night I was on different floor and was met with a not welcoming attitude being a male. The CNA's were advocating for the patients saying a man shouldn't be working on this floor. Now the patients didn't seem to mind me changing and bathing them but the CNAs vocalized their dislike for me the entire night. I still did my job regardless of the constant complaining. I simply turned to them after being tired of hearing it and said" I cannot cut off my private parts and put on a wig, you don't have to like me but you will respect me now let's get back to work". I've observed the CNAS doing several things that would permit cross contamination. Also I had to hold my tongue on two occasions from two older nurses who were rude for no apparent reason.

That situation was about the workers there. now the facility I come to find out is roach infested and has flies everywhere. Many of the patients sleep with the covers over their heads due to the bugs flying everywhere.

I wasn't expected a CNA position to be all roses and chocolates but the first three days have had me considering this decision. I want the experience while in school but I don't want to work somewhere and be miserable. How do you guys/ girls that are CNA's get through this. I have already started applying for other positions at more reputable facilities in hopes I won't have to deal with this current work environment.

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Quit while you're ahead, staying in this place will do nothing good for your career.

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well unfortunately I need the money and cannot just up and quit without something else coming through. But as soon as I find something else, I am up and running away.

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Train in phlebotomy and you will be an iv pro when you're a nurse. There's bad apples everywhere so don't take it personal. Small people talk about people while those doing better for their lives talk about ideas and bettering their life.

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It sounds like you are working in a nursing home no? I had a similar experience when I first started. I was 18 and everyone looked down on me for being a "kid". Turned out I was the best damn CNA there and was only there about 8 months then I got a job at my local hospital. Much better pay/benefits and more respect. Maybe stay for the experience for a few months and try to get a job somewhere else. I know how it feels to be stuck with a job you aren't pleased with because you have to pay the bills. Good luck and just remember this isn't forever. You are moving on to much better things while those snotty cnas are going to be stuck at that hellhole forever

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yes its a nursing home. thank you for your words of encouragement. i really appreciate it!!

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