Third day on a new unit and told I am too slow...

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I was told that I do not know how to manage my time.

I am too slow.

I need to prioritize.

Sheesh, knock me when I am down.

It was a rough day.

:crying2:

Specializes in LTC, Med/Surg.

You've only been working on the unit for three days! Of course you are slower than your more experienced co-workers.

I've been on orientation in a nursing home for six weeks now, and am just now becoming comfortable enough to be on my own. However the CNAs are (usually) very good about giving tips and training the new orientees. Maybe you just need to seek out advice?

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Specializes in Obstetrics, LTC, Assisted Living.

I'm sorry you had such a rough 1st week. Hang in there it WILL get better!

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I completely agree with Kimberly above. They should be more helpful and supportive. If they have been CNAs before they should know how hard it is.

Are you the only aide on the unit? I know when we get new aides, the first few days they stick with me and I show them our routine. That's so they get comfotable

With the hall and get a feel for the routine. Being an aide isn't always easy. I work on a resiratory unit, its a tough and busy hall most days.The other aide and I are running nonstop.

If only people would use more positive reinforcement in these settings, the job would be more tolerable and feel like you matter.that's how I feel

Anyways. Hope it gets better for you and the nurses help more :)

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The admin claims that customer service to the residents is of utmost priority YET when I take a few extra minutes taking care of a resident, I get in trouble.

I dread going back to work on Friday.

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Specializes in LTC, Med/Surg.
The admin claims that customer service to the residents is of utmost priority YET when I take a few extra minutes taking care of a resident, I get in trouble.

I dread going back to work on Friday.

It's that bad?

Here's what I advise. Stick around for a few more shifts. Strive to improve on your "time" and see how things go. If, after some time, you still dread going to work and are still being criticized, start looking for another nursing home.

If you do find another nursing home and take the job, and you are still finding that you take no joy in the job, it might be time to try another healthcare setting altogether. LTC is not for everyone. I'll tell you right now that I was not meant for nursing homes-- in all honesty, I work in one out of necessity-- but I make the best of it, day by day. And when an opportunity at another facility arises, I'm going to go for it, as much as I will miss the residents I cared for.

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Specializes in IMCU.

I feel like there is more to this. Why is the Admin involved? Is she/he your direct supervisor? I did not realize you got into "trouble" but thought there had just been comments.

Also, isn't there another CNA you can have some informal discussion with (I mean positive useful discussion). Find a colleague and ask for tips/pointers. In fact go into work 20 minutes early and do that. It will be worth the time.

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I feel like there is more to this. Why is the Admin involved? Is she/he your direct supervisor? I did not realize you got into "trouble" but thought there had just been comments.

Also, isn't there another CNA you can have some informal discussion with (I mean positive useful discussion). Find a colleague and ask for tips/pointers. In fact go into work 20 minutes early and do that. It will be worth the time.

There isn't more to the story. I was just saying that admin has stated several times that the residents are very important. When I act on that principal by taking my time with residents then I am told that I am too slow and need to prioritize.

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Specializes in IMCU.

Well my 2 cents...

Clearly this lot haven't learned how to give you, or anyone, proper supervisory feedback. It isn't fair to you. I'd ask around and find out who the best/most respected CNA is and pick their brain -- they will be flattered and you will have helped yourself.

What a bummer for you. But just because it starts this way doesn't mean this trajectory needs to continue. You sound sensible and it clearly bothers you.

Let us know how it works out. Specially what you did if it works out well for you. A lot of people come up against this same scenario.

Good Luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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It's when someone has been working with you for a month straight, with the same residents, and STILL can't figure it out that it gets annoying.

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Specializes in LTC.
It's when someone has been working with you for a month straight, with the same residents, and STILL can't figure it out that it gets annoying.

Yeah or when they've been working there full time for FIVE YEARS and they can't get it right!

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lol. I worked with someone yesterday that has been a CNA before, took a year off, has been working at my facility for two months, and is still "confused about taking blood pressure". Two of us tried to show her, she still had trouble. I didn't know what to do, I just gave her a cuff and a stethoscope and told her to go practice.

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Specializes in LTC.

Usually I just figure that's someone's way of getting out of doing something.

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