Starting a new job is always scary, especially when you’re caring for other people’s loved ones. The first week alone is probably the most stressful and tiring. You want to be sure that you are giving an excellent first impression and helping your client with their needs. As a CNA starting, there are a few things you want to ensure that you are doing, especially when it comes to management skills, professional development, and setting yourself up for a long, rewarding career. Here are a few tips to help you with your first as a CNA.
It is Important to Have Work Gear and Supplies
Of course, every job has its specific needs for the job. The employer will most likely supply some of the items, but you want to be ready if they don’t. Here is a list of things you may need, especially on your first day:
- Scrubs: You want to ask before you go out and buys some if they supply scrubs. If they do fantastic, if they don’t, you need to ask if there is a specific color or style that is necessary.
- Stethoscope: Some employers supply this, but if they don’t, this is needed to use onsite. These items can be pricy but is a good investment that can last over 10 years.
- Shoes: This is very important; as a CNA, you are on your feet for long periods. You want to get a supportive shoe that fits you well and lasts a long time.
- Report Template: As you are in training, you will need information on each patient you interact with. You want to make this easy on yourself, so you want to be sure to pre-print a report template to take down important information. This can be used in-home care or a hospital facility. You must understand this step.
- Other essentials: Be sure to have necessary supplies, such as a pen, Sharpie, tape, alcohol wipes, bandage scissors or trauma shears, gloves, chapstick, and hair ties.
Create Professional Development Opportunities
You want to link up with a mentor; this will help you learn different skills, tips, policies, procedures, and routines for different situations. When you link up with such a person, you improve your skill and opportunities to develop your career further. These people are great for answering questions you may have or solutions for different situations you may run into. They have seen it all, and there is nothing they can’t handle. And one day, you will be that person giving some other new employee the same advice and guidance you once learned.
Set goals. Where do you want this career to take you? Where is the end goal of being a CNA or another medical role? Also, think of your personal growth and goals. As you grow in your career, it, of course, comes with a pay increase. Make salary goals for yourself.
Lastly, always continue your education. Take advantage of different educational opportunities offered by your employer. You want to so them you are willing to learn whatever is needed to get quality assignments and grow in your career.
Develop and Improve your Time Management Skill
- Cluster different tasks together: Make a list and receive all the supplies needed in one trip. This will decrease you’re running around from room to room, gathering various supplies when required.
- Learn from peers: You can help you further your career; everyone has different experiences and ways to handle situations. They may be a lot more efficient in things that you lack experience in and vice versa.
- Lend a helping hand: Be ready to help when needed. You want to show that you are a team player.
- Balance your time: You’re going to get those patients that move to talk your ear off. Be sure to balance your time so that you finish all your work promptly.
Take Care of Yourself
- Stay hydrated: Always have your water on you; it is to stay hydrated during your job. With a career as a CNA, there is a lot of movement.
- Get enough sleep: You want to be sure to receive 7 to 8 hours of sleep. When you work a night shift, you need to readjust your sleeping schedule to sleep during the day.
- Self-care: Caring for other patients can take a lot of a person. So being sure that you set time aside to care for yourself is very important; it can be as simple as a hobby or a spa day.
Conclusion
Your first year of being a CNA is essential and the most difficult. You want to be sure that you have all of the above to ensure that your first year is successful. TLC Home Care can be where you spend your first year as a CNA, and many years later. You can grow, learn, and enjoy your job when working with TLC. Check them out today.