A nursing assistant (CNA or LNA) has many profound responsibilities, mainly to care for patients or residents with healthcare needs and demands, while working under the supervision of a nurse. Nursing Assistants provide direct hands-on care to those in need, whether it be in a hospital, clinic, nursing home, or even in the comfort of the person's home. The duties to be performed are immense and may seem never ending, such as toileting, bathing, dressing, vitals, and transferring to only name a few. The workload may be very demanding, but the rewarding feeling will never fade. Though I introduced you a summary of a nursing assistant's commitments, here are 10 things we all wish others would (or could) understand:
1. End of a shift
Whether you worked a 7-3, 3-11, 11-7, a double or all 3, you know the exhaustion and it is very real.
2. Tears happen
Some people are very alone, very sick, and/or confused and sometimes emotions can swarm over you.
3. There are a lot of things you cannot unsee
The human body is magnificent in all of its wonders and capabilities, but sometimes it can be capable of too much...
4. The rush to get things done
Trying to get 8+ patients ready for meals, appointments, therapy, getting dressed, receive report, report changes, answer alarms and lights... it never ends. Basically, everyone wants everything done at the same time and want it done yesterday...
5. Accidents
We all do it, but sometimes it does not end up where we would prefer.
6. Needing help
More than half of the time we need help. Some tasks requires 2 or more people involved, specifically for the safety of a patient. When this realization kicks in, suddenly everyone has their hands tied.
7. Breaks
The nurses may tell you that you can take a "15" but chances are that it is not even in the picture. You will be lucky if you can fit in time for a 30 minute lunch break.
8. Making a difference
Though it would be unprofessional to jump around like a lunatic, realizing you made a difference in someone's day and life is truly rewarding and unforgettable. It makes "work" worthwhile.
