Published Nov 29, 2014
MysticTopaz
37 Posts
If you have seen my past discussions, I'm a 16 year old girl in a medical program at my high school. I have been noticing that my interest in nursing has slowly been declining, I'm not sure if it's because my class is too easy since we're doing CNA work, or if I'm just not interested anymore. I have heard from many people that if you're a CNA who doesn't like your job, you will enjoy being an RN. I was wondering if there are ways I could jump start myself into learning RN skills, such as learning online through specific sites, I would like to learn more of an RN's job rather than a CNA to see if I have genuine interest. Thank you!
happyinmyheart
493 Posts
RN's scope of practice also includes the same things that CNA's do. Just so you know.
Here.I.Stand, BSN, RN
5,047 Posts
Can you pinpoint what it is that you don't like? That might be helpful in determining if nursing might be a good fit for you.
About CNA skills, here's a couple of thoughts. Are you just learning about them in class, or have you had clinicals in the nursing home with actual people? Real-life experiences are usually more interesting than reading about them in a book. Also, while RNs and LPNs do a lot of the basic skills like bathing (in some settings more than others, I should add), in nursing classes you'll learn more about why we do these things and how to assess your patient while you're at it. And of course, it will get more difficult and interesting as you learn a greater variety of things, and more in-depth.
If you decide nursing isn't for you after all, that is fine too!
You Tube has some good nursing-oriented stuff. Keep in mind that it might not (probably won't) make complete sense without having all the classroom and practical learning to go with it, but it might be worth a look if you're looking for online resources. There are lots of continuing education nursing classes available online, but again probably won't make much sense. But you could Google "free nursing CEUs" and see if anything looks interesting, or at least see what types of topics are pertinent to the professional nurse's practice.
been there,done it
84 Posts
Can you pinpoint what it is that is DRAWING you to nursing?
Studying CNA work should most certainly not be boring. This is where you learn the basics of care giving. Keeping a patient clean and comfortable and assisting them with activities of daily living can and should be rewarding.
Applying scientific knowledge to improving the lives of patients is an additional skill.
Of course. My Mother's friend is a CNA to RN, she says it's a lot different, especially in school.
I'm not exactly sure, I don't dislike anything, it's more like I'm losing interest. I don't like anyone in my class or want to be friends with them, they're from a 'high end' district and are... Not exactly tolerable people to be around, I'm kind of lonely as it may be.
We won't have clinicals until 2016-2017, we work on each other for non-invasive procedures such as trimming nails. Real life people, yes. Actual patients, no. I'm hoping independent learning can help me get back into nursing, I think being away from the class for a week for Thanksgiving break and it made me feel differently.
Thank you, I'll definitely check out videos and such.
What drew me to nursing was my love for biology and medical. I think it is boring since we work independently most of the time and I don't have friends in my class. I don't have clinical yet so it may just be I haven't had the real experience. I'll probably talk to my guidance counselor the beginning of next week.
Thank you.
Nienna Celebrindal
613 Posts
You are young, and it's okay to change your mind. I have a friend who was certain she want to be a doctor but while applying to programs she realized she wasn't into it. On the way there though she found a different passion in public health. She has had a great career so far and is extremely happy.
I can see where it's tough to not have friends but honestly that is real life. You are not always going to like everyone or sometimes anyone you work with but you may still have too. This is unfortunately good practice for you.
I hope you figure out what will make you happy. Don't be afraid to change your plans or follow crazy dreams!