hi all, got my very first job as cna. on monday will be my orientation so what should i expect on this orientation and how about the following day. am i going to do all cna stuff the next day? btw im on 10-6 shift do you think this shift is a good start? what are the usual routine on this shift.? to many questions but need your comment asap.

The first couple of days will probably be in a conference room or classroom. They will go over your benefits, you will fill out some paperwork for things like health insurance (if you're full time) and so forth. Rules, OSHA, corporate compliance, infection control, body mechanics, and other sorts of things will be discussed. You will probably spend part of your time with new employees from other departments that have nothing to do with health care, but it's a good chance to get to know co-workers in other departments and start networking for when you need a favor ;)

That part of orientation can be very boring at times--avoid the temptation to snooze!

Finally, you'll begin your orientation on your unit. You will probably begin on day shift so they can get you used to the facility. You will be paired off with an experienced CNA who will show you the ropes: explain your duties, show you how to chart vital signs, I&O, etc, show you where to find things, etc. This part of your orientation may vary depending on the facility: possibly up to a couple of weeks. Then you will begin working your assigned shift.

You didn't say am or pm. 10-6 sounds like night shift to me, but char is describing a day shift. You also don't say if you are working in a nursing home or a hospital. I'll describe a night shfit. Generally, though, you will get change of shift vital signs, assist patients with toileting, turn and reposition them, change linens that may be soiled, and answer call lights. You'll assist the nurses from time to time: for example, she may have to change a dressing on a patient who can't turn themselves, and you'll help turn the patient so she can do the dressing. You won't have anything to do with medications. In some facilities you may be trained to perform advanced skills once you have sufficient experience, such as inserting foley catheters (a very important resonsiblity, since sterility is important!). You'll do rounds on your patients every two hours: turn and reposition, attend to toileting needs, change linens if soiled, etc. 2am-5am can be a slow time, and it is helpful to keep busy to stay awake. Cleaning equipment will be part of your job, and is a good way to fight off the yawns. If you have patients going for surgery or other procedures, you will probably be expected to get them up early and assist them with bathing. Generally on nights, you don't have anything to do with meals. Emergencies can happen, and if there is a code, you will probably be the first one performing CPR (the nurses will be doing other things to save the patient that are out of your scope, but will take over when you get tired).

Working as a CNA is a great way to learn and ask questions if you are interested in becoming a nurse. Some nurses love to teach and answer questions (some don't). FInd the ones that do, ask good questions, and you will get a lot of support and encouragement.

Good luck!