Ok, first day on the floor tomorrow. need advice. anything at all

NesCMA · Aug 6, 2013

Hi there,

I'm pretty sure everything will be fine. I remember my first day (Certified Medical Assistant for 7 yrs now) and I was a bit nervous as well. But I'm sure your mentor will teach you everything you need on the job. That's what they are there for... plus once you get the routine down you will be a pro in no time. Dealing with patient's on a daily basis you will become comfortable . Confidence in your skill really shows. I started 7 years ago and with confidence In skill and just being passionate about patient care.. I'm now Lead CMA. You got this! Remember you're not alone on the floor, you work with a team and no question is a dumb question. Learn as much as you can and aim high.

Good Luck

DavidSquire · Aug 6, 2013

thank you!!!!!! made me feel much better. still nervous haha

SavingGrace007 · Aug 6, 2013

Hi, I have been a Medical Assistant in the distant past but am currently working as a PCT at a major hospital and was a CNA for a year in a rehabilitation center before that. From experience I can say that I worry as well and looking back I can honestly say it was silly to worry and it wasted so much energy. Everyone is nervous of the unknown and fears doing things for the first time. This is normal so just allow yourself to be a little nervous but don't worry yourself to death. For the most part if you are a compassionate person you will take very good care of the patient for compassion is EVERYTHING. Yes skill is a big part of the job but that is learned through repetition. Ask for help whenever you are unsure. Ask lots of questions and write stuff down. You are going to feel so good about yourself and the fact that you helped someone (the patient) or a nurse in need. The job truly sets you apart from other people and changes you for the better if you let it do so by being compassionate. In time you will be experienced and will be writing on this site to encourage others. I am planning on going back to school now to become an RN. This job has been the stepping stone and working with nurses has inspired me to go forward. You are going to do great because you are the kind of person that doesn't think you are below doing a job that most people wouldn't think of doing...you obviously have a love for people and want to help them...right? Enjoy your new job...learn from it and be loving and kind to those who truly need a loving touch and an understanding heart... Let us know how you are doing from time to time...

DavidSquire · Aug 6, 2013

thank you sooo much! i will try to not worry so much :)

SavingGrace007 · Aug 6, 2013

Your welcome David...anytime I can be of encouragement let me know.. You will do fine...trust me. Just focus on the patients.

LightX · Aug 8, 2013

Don't panic. Show no fear (or anxiety). Act like you know what you're doing, even if you feel like you have no clue...at the same time, don't be afraid to ask questions.

Most of the job is common sense and if you past the state exam, you'll be fine!!!

At first you will feel like there is NO WAY you will get everything done in your shift...and you probably won't but, You'll get a routine down, get to know the residents and things will get easier.

I was lucky to have such a great team who was so willing to help. Hopefully you will have the same experience. If you don't, don't let it get to you. Just do your best.

It can be very overwheleming the first week or so, but it does get easier.

The most important thing to remember when you're on your own is patient safety! Stop and think before you leave the room...does the resident have any and all safety alarms/pads etc in place.

50andCounting · Sep 11, 2013

Dear David,

I can appreciate your nervousness especially since this is your first job like you said, not just that you are now a CNA. I just recently finished a CNA course as well and start my clinicals Mon the 16th. Since this is your first job, then I am probably a little older than you and have experience in several different fields of work. This is my advice: (1) Carry a tablet and pen to make notes of anything of importance and the most important . . . (2). I can tell you as a person who is close to getting her bachelors in psychology / social work to Stop worrying", I say again, "Stop worrying" because if you are busy running around in your head thinking, "Ï'm going to miss something . . I'm going to miss something . . . ", sure enough you will miss something! Breathe deep, concentrate on what your mentor is explaining, take notes and think, "Ï can do this."

So ive already stated in my past posts that I have no experience. I have already gotten some advice but I want more. I had my orientation today and I am scheduled to work from 6am to 2pm all week, starting tomorrow morning. I will have a mentor/trainer to show me the ropes and everything but I AM SO. FREAKIN. NERVOUS. I do not know why. This is my VERY first job, let alone first CNA job ha. I have no experience with dealing with another human beings private life and it is so nerve racking im about to have an anxiety attack. I am a HUGE worry wart and I don't like knowing I have all this responsibility on my shoulders. so please, I wanna know from your experiences when you were just a newbie like myself, and tell me your mistakes so I can learn from them. THANK YOU. I love this website.