What do you look for in a CNA

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Specializes in Home health, Nursing home, ICU Step-down.

How can I optimize my skills to be a better CNA. Can you think of a certain quality that stands out and above the rest? Oh yeah, one last /weird/ question, should I not keep a skinned head, or do you not think it matters. I come off somewhat intimidating as a person (6'1 athletic). I have what you could call a jailhouse appearance, but am one of the friendliest ppl you'll ever meet. Any suggestions? All replys are very appreciated!!

:D

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The best CNA's i have seen are the ones that really care about their patients. They project a positive attitude toward their coworkers and patients. As long as you show compassion i think you will be great at your job =)

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Specializes in Ortho, Neuro, Detox, Tele.

Appearance is part of it...but displaying a caring manner is over 90% of the job.

I work with a larger fella(who can be intimitating at times), and another CNA from another floor who has a shaved head and is gruff at times.

the best CNAs don't do things they are unsure of....ask first. They learn, care and seek out chances to practice skills...ask nurses what's going on with patients, etc....

keep the patient in mind and you'll be fine.

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Specializes in LTC.

The best CNA's I've worked with as a CNA are those who don't know the words "Not my job" or "Not my patient." As long as they have time and it's within their scope of practice they are willing to jump into anything to help out.

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Specializes in Home health, Nursing home, ICU Step-down.

I'm actually a new member to this whole online community, and must say I'm very impressed with it. I just wanted to let you two who replied know that I appreciate your response. Very insightful info also, so again, thanks.

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Specializes in Home health, Nursing home, ICU Step-down.
The best CNA's I've worked with as a CNA are those who don't know the words "Not my job" or "Not my patient." As long as they have time and it's within their scope of practice they are willing to jump into anything to help out.

That really hits home being a CNA. I'm always glad to lend a hand involving anything. Whatever it takes to make the patients care shorter and comforting is a plus for me. Thanks for the advice.

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Specializes in Home health, Nursing home, ICU Step-down.
Appearance is part of it...but displaying a caring manner is over 90% of the job.

I work with a larger fella(who can be intimitating at times), and another CNA from another floor who has a shaved head and is gruff at times.

the best CNAs don't do things they are unsure of....ask first. They learn, care and seek out chances to practice skills...ask nurses what's going on with patients, etc....

keep the patient in mind and you'll be fine.

I always try to show caring emotions to the patients. A lot of what goes on in the workplace may make you upset, but you must never pass that on to the patients.

As for doing things I'm not sure of, you nailed that one. I would much rather 'bother' somebody for a minute than overstep my legal boundaries, or even worse, risk a patients recovery than shoot in the dark at something.

Very helpful information. Thank you.

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Specializes in Ortho, Neuro, Detox, Tele.

You're welcome. I've worked a total of 5.5 years in healthcare...3 as a activity director, 2.5 as a tech...so if you want to PM me for any info regarding the male aspects of being a CNA/RN...feel free.

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Specializes in Geriatrics, ICU, OR, PACU.

My best CNAs are those who love what they do, and are involved in their resident's lives. I never hear "not my resident", "not my light", in fact, I never hear ANYTHING negative from them. It's all about attitude--you get in what you put out there, you know?

No matter what you look like, a big smile on your face, and a can-do attitude will be all that anyone sees. Keep your head skinned, LOL, I wish *I* could.

Good luck to you! The fact that you're here asking speaks volumes.

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