Start floor orientation tomorrow!

IEDave, ASN, CNA, LVN · Mar 24, 2012

I am starting my floor orientation tomorrow, and it's a 12 hour shift. Any tips from you experienced CNA's?

Wish I had some tips for you, Brian - but I'm in nearly the same boat. Finished the new hire orientation this afternoon (heck, haven't even had my physical yet) & will be doing floor orientation on NOC for the next 3 days, then switching to AM after a 2 day break - most likely following up on PM & NOC for the following week.

Looking forward to hearing what the pros have to say - and, best of luck to you!

----- Dave

Thujone · Mar 25, 2012

I just got back from my first 12 hour shift. It wasn't all that bad. I had a very helpful CNA to show me the ropes, and I basically ran with her all day. I did venture off on my own at times if I saw a call light open, but this usually lead to me having troubles changing someone's brief, but I worked through it and got it done. Other then that, I didn't have any problems. I just need to develop a routine and get faster at what I do.

on eagles wings, ASN, RN · Jun 4, 2012

Hey Brian,

Kind of an old post but wanted to see how you were doing. I just got hired and had my first 12 hr shift 2 weeks ago(I'm PRN) and my second day is tomorrow. Funny you mention getting in trouble with those briefs--I'm having the same problem, lol. Especially because most of the patients are obese(I'm on a GI/Tele/Surgical floor).

How are you feeling after a couple of weeks.

Thujone · Jun 5, 2012

Well, as far as the skills go, it took me about 72 hours of work to get everything down, at least for most patients. On the other hand, I rarely had to work due to my PRN status, so those skills didn't stay as fine tune after that week of training though. After working several months as a CNA, I question whether health-care is right for me. I don't mind working, but it's difficult to work with a lot of the residents. Some of them are basket-cases, some don't like having me as a CNA simply because I'm a male. It may just be the facility where I work. I live in an area that is highly traditional.