Starting my First job as a CNA in a hospital!!!!

runsalot · Oct 26, 2013

Learn how to mobilize. Lots of high fall risks.

Mzfuturenurse · Oct 26, 2013

ok thanks! Im on it!!

icemanof92 · Oct 30, 2013

Things I wish I knew as a new PCT:

1. Orientation will probably not teach you everything you need to know and you have to develop your own style, routine, and tricks. You will be overwhelmed at first but you will adapt

2. A great PCT is one who stays moving, works hard, and doesn't get complacent or lazy (too often)

3. Give yourself A LOT of time towards the end of your shift to make sure your patients are all clean and dry. For an average NA/PCT load of about 10 patients, I like to give myself at least 2 hours to make sure everyone is changed/washed.

4. VERY VERY IMPORTANT. DO NOT NOT NOT lift/boost/transfer ANY patients who needs anything more than minimal assistance without a second person helping you. This is for their safety and moreso yours. I injured my back transferring a pt chair-bed and was out of work for more than a month! Do not let this happen to you. Your health is not worth risking for any reason.

GOOD LUCK and LEARN!!

Mzfuturenurse · Oct 30, 2013

Thanks!

kenya1005 · Dec 1, 2013

This is kind of late, but one thing that has really helped me is to get to know the nurses. One of our nurses is really big on baths... so I always do her patients' baths first. Another one likes her patients blood sugars checked first thing in the morning, even if they haven't ordered breakfast first. Little things like that will really help.