Why??

I don't think other people understand how physically demanding CNA/nursing is. They think all that is done is taking blood pressures with a machine no less! and passing out dinner trays. They think a "bed bath" is easy, not realizing that a total care patient that can not move at all must me bathed/cleaned/turned/ many times per shift and that 12 hour shifts are killer shifts. Patient transfers to BSC/or on/off bedpans require a lot of energy. I don't know how to make your folks understand. What is your age? I'm wondering if that has something to do with this issue if you are on the younger side of life. 12 hour shifts were a big reason for getting my FNP.

People that haven't worked the job just don't understand, often I tell a story or two when people like to complain about how tough their job is and it normally shuts them up

Exactly! I can't explain myself enough. I'm 30 btw. However, I've been a CNA for almost 12 years. I have degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis. I'm so tired physically, and the negatives aren't helping one bit!

You're correct. It's like telling a person no matter what you do, nothing is that demanding. Not to mention the shifts! ugh I'm telling you! What must we do for the clueless??

As a nurse, I've been lucky (as has my sister who is a CNA) because most of my family are CNAs. However, they work all different shifts and had a different idea of how her and I, since we were both on nights (her on 8s and myself on 12s for the most part) should attend family functions.

What we did was actually come to family events a couple times and passed out on the couch midway through because we were so zonked and they finally got the picture. My mom, also a CNA, has raised 6 kids, loves working outdoors, and has endless energy, but even she is pooped when she gets home around midnight from her PM shift.

They should finally get the picture and there are still some things I sacrifice (rest) in order to be at certain family events, especially hard since I live a couple hours away from everyone now. If they don't get it, they don't get it, but make an effort (and maybe call or text while you're at work if you can on a break). I'd rather be awake for my job than at my niece's bday party, no matter how badly I wish I could do both.

xo

People don't get it until they've been there. So, it's either going to take a "bring your family to work day" or people just minding their own and being understanding. I work full time and I'm in nursing school and I still get flack for not showing up to stuff. What makes it more difficult is my family parties hard so it's not like I can get off work and go to a party and drink for 8 hours like they can (somehow that's restful and relaxing for them???).

BrownNAchic, you are 100% correct!! And you put into words exactly what I've been saying for the last 25 years! Even people who genuinely try to get it, just don't! After about 20 years or so I finally decided to do what my body and spirit need, even if no one else understands. It was either that, or find a different profession. Good luck to you!!!!