What are the most challenging aspects of Certified Nursing Assistant?

Hi, Kaylene W. !

Certified Nursing Assistants are truly angels and have such an important role as direct service staff. You seem to already know that it is both a fulfilling and challenging occupation and I hope I may highlight some of the challenges you are wondering about.

First and foremost, an effective CNA is a people person - they love people , are open minded and culturally and socially able to integrate comfortably with a wide range of people. Not all of your patients will be easy to work with and you will need a strong sense of self, confidence, because you will be helping individuals that have a wide range of needs and personalities. If you can empathize with people, your job will be a little smoother. Even though you may sometimes not think it, your presence in your patients lives make a difference in a good way.

Depending on which venue you work in, most of the time, CNA work is physically active with very little down time. You will be on your feet constantly . Physical strength and strong health are very important.

Another challenge is learning how to manage the "dirty" work. You can be trained very well in this and you should be prepared to encounter situations where you will be around bodily fluids. People are very grateful for the assistance . It's not a job that just anyone can do.

One aspect of CNA work is that there are usually many jobs available. The pay can be low (it depends) but you usually can always find work. You can work in a hospital, nursing home, private residence or private direct hire from a family.

I hope that this has shed light on just some of the many challenges there are in the health care field. Best wishes to you in all of your endeavors.