New tips for new CNA students?

[KatieShoe]

Hello there. I've finally registered for my CNA classes. It's been quite an internal conflict; It's always been my goal and dream job but here lately after reading some of the more negative comments on here, I'm beginning to feel anxious. I know I can handle the fluids and grouchy patients, but what else should I be expecting? I know it's nothing glamorous and it won't be a tidy career. I was just wondering if there's anything I can do to really prepare myself for what I'll be exposed to? I welcome any deep dark secrets in this field, tips for clinicals, etc. I suppose I just really would like to know what I'm getting myself into; the good, the bad, and especially the ugly! Thank you so much and feel free to private message me :)

[northernguy]

I've done my share of griping on this forum, but its really not THAT bad a job. The problem is that the job shouldnt be anywhere near as hard as it is, but thanks to budget constraints, it is. Then again the way the US economy is going these days, thats pretty much the case in every field, assuming your lucky enough to even have a job. Employers are squeezing more and more out of employees, continually pushing the boundaries of what people will take, which shouldnt be the way health care works.

As long as youre a people person with patience and an even temperment, are willing to work hard, possess at least average intelligence, have a healthy back, and are willing to stick with it the first few weeks or months even if the workload seems like too much, you'll do fine. It may seem like a thankless job most of the time, but at some point youll run into family or a resident/patient that is genuinely thankful for the job you do, which is something that will never happen in many jobs.

[Poi Dog]

Work on being efficient and managing your time. In the beginning you will be slow because you want to do everything by the book. Not that that's the bad way but in the real world, monkey wrenches get thrown around frequently. If you get flustered, fine, take a deep breath and prioritize.

There have been times when I have wanted to curl into a ball with my legs curled underneath and suck my thumb...LOL. Doing that will not make the work load go away. The patients/residents will still be there depending on you to assist them. I cannot stress how important it is to manage your time.

Be prepared to deal with coworkers who will grunt/yell/growl/snarl/snap at you when you ask them for help. Don't take it personally. They are under ridiculous time constraints and have their own work to do too. If you ask someone for help, be sure to reciprocate. Offer to help out. Even if your coworkers don't want to play nicely, you don't have to act that way to them. Be respectful and don't act like a know-it-all. Folks like that will get eaten alive - stat!

If you have a resident who is a total care, get them cleaned up/dressed/hooked up to necessary gear/get the equipment in the room BEFORE you ask for help. If you continually ask for help with things that you could have done by your lonesome, your coworkers will resent you. Trust me, I learned that the hard way. Always keep patient safety in mind at all times.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Learn about your patients/residents. Anticipate their needs. Talk to those you are caring for. Even if they are mute, still treat like the human being they are. You will get to the point when a call light goes off and you already know that Miss G wants her pink fuzzy slippers put on/Mr. N wants his roommates light turned off. Gather all the supplies before you go into a room. Heck take extras, unless your facility is all Ebenezer.

Don't focus so much on the posts where posters are grumbling. When you get into the thick of things, you will understand why we come here to vent. It is healthier than telling your coworkers to eff off or throwing a bm soaked brief at them. This site has prevented me from being unemployed many times.

Lastly, take care of yourself. Don't try to be superwoman. Provide quality care and have some fun with it. It is a rewarding experience. Be prepared to have your heart broken when a resident passes. It is hard to not get attached to someone that you have cared for. I will not post that it is a cake walk and that you will never get dirty because that would be a straight up lie. Oh yeah, have an extra pair of scrubs/socks in your car.

Best wishes on your new journey.

[tomc5555]

As far as the class, before reading the whole chapter take the quiz at the end and focus on studying what you answered incorrectly. There is a lot of info in the text books. Make sure you keep up with the reading.

With clinicals, good shoes, and if you feel your trainer is not teaching, or letting you perform skills, ask to be reassigned. You need the hands on experience during clinicals.

Also, let the six principles of care be your goal for each encounter.

Good luck!

[Thujone]

Listen to your instructor and study! That is all.