Question about CNA Clinical

mattiemiranda · Apr 29, 2012

Hello everyone, I finished my first day of clinical yesterday and I was wondering if I could get some tips on being faster and more efficient while doing AM care. For the most part I was pretty much on my own in caring for one of the residents I was assigned for about, and I had some trouble doing peri-care on the resident while she was on the toilet. I was told that was where I needed to do it, but I've always practiced while the 'resident' was on the bed.
It took me about an hour to get my resident ready for breakfast, and I know that is far too long.
I was also curious, for when applying for CNA positions, how difficult is it to get the 11pm-7am night shift?

Becoming faster just takes time! I was the same way when I became a CNA. Once you get comfortable with what you are doing you will be faster! As far as the 11pm to 7am shift....it just depends on the facility and what is available but I don't think that it would be too hard to get that shift. You can always take a different shift and ask them if they can change you to that shift when a spot opens up!

vintagemother, BSN, CNA, LVN, RN · Apr 29, 2012

In my experience, noc shifts are pretty easy to get as long as you are vocal about wanting to work that shift. I wanted to work nocs and have had no problems finding work during that shift.I cant help you with speed. I'm not fast yet either. Good luck with that!

Kitsey · Apr 29, 2012

My facility would love some NOC shift workers. The regulars can't take vacation cause there is no one to cover!

mindyfromcali · Apr 30, 2012

Nocs are usually pretty easy to get. The others are right, speed takes team even if you are experienced. Every resident is different, and is used to their routine. It can take a while to get used to what that routine is and how that fits together with the other residents you may be responsible for and their routines. I used to take forever too, but the trick is to find your own rhythm. You'll get there, but it does take a lot of time. A tip for when toileting a resident in the bathroom and cleaning them up: if they're on a commode just have them hold onto the rail and lean forward a bit to have access to their bottom. If they are on a toilet and need help standing up, try to see if you can get a commode or shower chair so they're higher off the ground, and have something to sit on that gives you access to help them clean up. Another trick, if they're able to stand up and are fairly steady is to have them lean onto the sink so you can clean them up some more. Obviously, make sure it's a resident who has fairly good balance so they don't fall while you do this.

mindyfromcali · Apr 30, 2012

speed takes time not team****

IEDave, ASN, CNA, LVN · Apr 30, 2012

+1 that speed comes with practice. Also, getting "dialled-in" on residents takes awhile, as does building trust, etc. Don't expect to do it all in one day, it's just going to take some time. Far as a given shift - NOCs can be desirable, as can days. Probably the easiest shift to get (in my experience, anyway) is 2nd shift - most people don't want it 'cause it cuts into personal/family/school time too much. Already stuck my foot in my mouth on the issue of "I can't get such-and-such shift" - just apply & see.

----- Dave

smishra8 · May 1, 2012

I think the overnight shifts is the one that doesnt require you to be fast paced. If you work slow and thoroughly i think this would be the right shift for you. But then again i wouldnt worry to much. Im sure once you get the hang out if it all you will surprise yourself and will work faster. When i first started at the job I work at, I was very slow at everything i did but once you get the routine down and how to get everything done, you work alot faster than you thought you would. Dont be discouraged though because first shift is i believe the hardest shift through out the day. You need to do alot of things in a little time so i feel as if that is the shift that demands fast and efficient workers more than night shift or over night shift. You will get the hang of everything and will work faster by the time clinicals are done but even if you dont you still have other options as a CNA depending on the shift you decide to work. Night shifts are a little slower because there is only one meal rather than the two at AM shift. So im sure you will realize what works best for you once you give yourself time to adjust to the clinical setting. Good luck!

nursetabitha · May 1, 2012

I just got a CNA job and I am doing the second shift 2-10pm. I think most people want to work the first shift, especially if they have kids, so a night shift shouldn't be too hard to get. Just make sure you include that on your cover letter or resume when you submit it. And working faster will come with time and practice.