BL7162

I'm an instructor, was a skills tester and CNA! Always pump up the B.P. to 180, everyone is nervous and V.S. are always higher than usual. Talk out loud as you perform your skills (like you are talking to the patient), you can hear yourself, and is calming. If you know you left something out you can always correct yourself at any time. Never give up, you are past the unknown aspect. You can do it, it's just common sense! Good luck, let us know when you pass. Idaho

Call your school or place you are taking your class and ask to talk to the instructor. They can give you a number, or the instructor can call you back. The class regulations and clinical requirements vary from state to state. I'm an instructor and this happens frequently. I just want to know that the students are committed and care about being the best possible caregiver. The skills we teach are very important. And....yes I was a CNA before becoming a nurse, and I always "gave it my best"....and I was in my 40's then. Good luck from Idaho.

I teach CNA classes. Was an accountant, then stay at home Mom, then went to University to become a nurse, during that time worked as a CNA in nursing home and Home Health, during my 40's! Became a nurse at 48 yrs. My youngest student was 16 yrs. home schooled and going to college early. Oldest 78 yrs. retired high ranking officer, was a base commander! I have students that are refugees, and from all over the world. Pre-med, pre-nursing, recovering addicts, and everything inbetween! The majority are all fantastic people that "have a heart", and want to help others. I am so fortunate to have this opportunity. So, for those of you that think you are getting too old to start something new........no way!! Good luck to you....

I hear you.......Will post this in my classroom. I do give my students instructions, but better coming from you directly. CNA instructor, Idaho

It's a lousy shame that most people want to move on from a job because of the people they work with. Don't other people hate to go to work there? The tension must be a nightmare for the patients too. I wonder if some donuts would help!!!! Don't let them get you down. At least you care!

In Idaho there is 80 hrs. of classroom instruction and 40 hrs. of onsite clinical experience. This is a great way to "get your feet wet" find out if you can handle it. Everyone has the same concerns that you have. With the training, you can help aging family members or friends that need help after being in the hospital. You are usually very busy and don't have much time to dwell on it. And the pleasure of caring for someone that needs your help soon outweights the occassional odors. Go for it!

In Idaho when you are working as a CNA for an Agency etc. you are not able to give injections! Regarding the smells.....a small dab of Vicks Vapor Rub on a Q-tip just inside the nose is what most caregivers use. Good luck. Nurse Barb, former CNA

Idaho does not require GED to take State Test, but may be a requirement for employment where you apply.

Anybody know anything about caffeine stimulating the pancreas to secrete insulin, therefore dumping more glucose into the cells. Can you believe it! Have a cup of coffee during a meal and more than the normal amount of glucose is going to be dumped into the cells, which = more fat buildup! That would account for weight gain from drinking non-diet coke. And then, there is the phosphorus in pop that stimulates calcium buildup in the kidney which = kidney stones, except they are not stones but crystals that scratch the heck out of the ureters! Those that have experienced them say that it is worse than childbirth! Just want to spoil all our fun!! To figure out servings the "Plate Method" works well. Half the plate full of veggies, 1/4 protein, 1/4 carbs., a small bowl of fruit, glass of milk and glass of water. Good luck, Nurse Barb.