mgsp14

I disagree... I think you should try and find another facility to work at. I don't mind going to work, and I can honestly say that I enjoy what I do for work. I work at a LTC facility, and have great co-workers. The work is not too strenuous, either... maybe the facility you work at is short-staffed??

You're not alone... I worked as a PCA at a private home for 2 years providing 1:1 care. After earning my certification, I was hired at a LTC facility, which sounds similar to the one you are working at. There a 20 residents, and 2-3 CNAs on at a time. I have worked as a CNA for 3 months now, and I am finally comfortable at work. I do a great job, the only problem is... I am slowwww! It takes me about 40 minutes from start to finish to shower a resident, and it only takes the other CNAs 15 minutes, tops. Just remember, your co-workers have probably been at this facility, or worked as CNAs, for a few years. After a while, I am sure you'll be just as quick as them. As long as you are getting the job done correctly, and providing safe, private care to the residents, I am sure you'll be fine! :)

I work at a LTC center, and the physical labor isn't too strenuous... it's actually a pretty laid back facility. There are about 20 residents, and 2-3 CNAs on at a time. The pay isn't too bad; starting pay with less than 1 year experience is $10.50 an hour, plus differentials ($1.50 for 3-11pm), plus benefits if you are full-time (32 hours a week+). Each additional year, you get a raise. $12.00 an hour isn't much when you compare it to a nursing salary, but keep in mind, CNA training lasts about 3 months. I think it is worth it!

I've heard the opposite, but don't have the experience to ponder the thought. Maybe I'll start my own thread

I work at a respectable LTC facility in Southern Maine. I fall under the "0-1 years CNA experience" category and earn $10.50 an hour, plus shift differential which is $1.50 for the 3-11pm shift: $12.00 an hour total. I used to work as a PCA in Southern Maine and earned $14.00 an hour with 2 years experience. I think it's decent money... I make do.

Also, MMC recommends that students do the first 2 weeks assignments before classes start. I only have the first weeks assignments completed. Do you think I will be far behind? Do students need the scrubs right away? I haven't bought mine yet... Thank you so much...!! :)

That is what I am stressed about... how time consuming the reading and workbook is. I took notes on the whole PSS book, and I am taking my time going through the chapters and taking notes. That process seems to be too time consuming, so I am wondering if I should just skim through the chapters and jot down the key ideas; read the details, but not take the time to write them down. Which floor of the hospital are you working on?

Oh good! I guess it can't be too bad then. Thanks for your response :nuke:

CNA classes start 1/09 and I am nervous about the workload. I've been employed as a PCA since July 2007, performing basic duties, along with inserting catheters (isn't that a nurses job?), handing pills to a patient, bathing, ambulating, and using a lift, so I do have experience in the field. Regardless, I am nervous that the workload will be too much, along with my PT job. Are there any former students of the MMC CNA course on this website? If so, please post your opinion about the MMC course on here... I'd really appreciate it. I just want to know what to expect. Also, why does Maine require 200 hour courses, while other states require as low as 80 hours?

Mainer right here :)