sparkyr

OK, I said I would check back during my clinical so here's my experience so far: - We're expected to use all 24 skills required for the state NA-C test with sign-off on satisfactory performance during clinical. That hasn't been difficult. I completed 20 of the skills in the first three days. In addition to the core 24 skills, I've learned about 20 additional skills that aren't on the state test. - CNAs at our clinical facility are 1 CNA to 8 residents for day shift. To provide quality care, that means moving fast, carefully and in a caring manner for the entire 8 hour shift. Clinical is physically demanding. - By the second day, I was completing some resident care independently. I've only done that for skills I've completed two or more times under the direct supervision of the CNA to which I'm assigned. - Each CNA I've been assigned to has been wonderful at teaching how to apply our classroom/lab training in the real world. I've learned as much in clinical as I did in the classroom/lab, even though it's half the classroom time.

I'm 45 and just starting the pre-reqs for either my RN or ARNP/RN combo. You are not alone! :) I'm completing my CNA right now to really learn what I'm getting myself into with nursing degree. We're in clinicals and I've found that my age is a benefit. Not only did I ace the classes, I've found that I'm not as flustered as the younger folks when learning new skills on the job. I've also found that patients look at you like "you're more qualified" - maybe they assume you've been doing this for 30 years. The CNA work is hard physically, but what I've found more important is the ability to juggle a millions things without forgetting anything. Age and life experience have definitely helped with that.

My clinicals start week after next and I can't wait! They haven't told us what to expect yet, other than long days (6am - 4pm). It's fantastic that you're taking the time to educate all of us who haven't been to clinical yet! My guess, based on hearing about others' experiences, is that we'll be busy getting residents up for the first hour or two, then standard CNA-type stuff after that. During my clinicals week after next, I've made a reminder to come back to update this thread with what I experience. :)