TryintoLearn

When I took my CNA classes I was told not to chew gum because there has to be particles floating around in the air and when you breathe in it would get on your gum and you'd be chew that all day. So I was wondering if that was true and if it is would mints/gum be a good idea when changing a dirty brief? I know this may seem like a really stupid thought, but I tend to be a but gullible too. lol

Recently the facility bought a ton of new washcloths, which is making things a bit better. If they could just get the staffing under control that would be great. However, I'm actively looking for a new job after only 3-4 weeks at this facility because I think the conditions are poor and I can't be the only CNA working her tail off on my shift.

Thank you for all your replies! It's been really helpful

The peri-area is one reason I asked the question. I have noticed some CNA's just taking off dirty brief and replacing it instead of cleaning. I thought if I brought wipes in it would make the cleaning up time go faster and insure there clean and it wouldn't be as rough on there skin. It would also insure that I had supplies to get the job done. Has no one used those before? I just thought it would make sense. One of the RN's I work with said just buying off brand baby wipes would work and she used to do that a long time ago. I just don't know if I'd get in trouble if state would come in and see me using that.

I've been working as a CNA for the past month. I just finished classes before that so I'm pretty new at this. I have 18-19 residents to clean up from dinner and then lay down to bed and most are suffering from some form of dementia. Our facility is always short on washcloths and when they run out of those you have to use bath towels to clean up the residents. If those run out you have to use pillowcases! I also don't feel like they are getting cleaned up they way they should with just a wet rag. So all in all I'm tired of running around trying to find something to care for my already tired residents. I was wondering if anyone brings in there own supplies such as wipes, lotions, denture tablets, etc...? If so what brands/types are acceptable? Or if there is any advise on how to better do something I'd appreciate it.