I’ve been through different programs since I was 18 straight out of high school I went to school to be an esthetician finish my 6 months and graduated right when Covid happened. Then late December 2022 and early 2023 I started school for dental assisting finished did clinicals and graduated this April but in my area there are not any jobs in my area for the dental field. So a few months after I finished dental school I decided to go to do a cna class but at the time I didn’t want to do it I did it because it was what me and my cousin talked about it wasn’t something I wanted at the time so I went the first two day and stop going it had so much going on with the people in the class and the teacher. It was something I didn’t want to do so it wasn’t going to work out anyways. So I decided to go paid my tuition in full and did it this time around and finished it I actually like it. It’s an easy laid back job. Finished with a 4.0 it’s common sense. All I have to do now is take my prometrics test and I’ll be certified. But I’m so proud of myself and it’s a foot in the door to begin my nursing career and even further.
2024/8/14 Edited to
... Read moreMy journey to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) has been full of twists and turns, but one thing that truly helped me stay focused, especially when I doubted myself, was visualizing my future. When I started my CNA program, I found it incredibly motivating to create a 'CNA vision board' or a 'CNA collage.' It wasn't just pretty pictures; it was a powerful tool to keep my goals in sight. I'd include images of what motivated me: a future home, travel destinations I dreamed of, and of course, symbols of my new career like nursing scrubs and a stethoscope. Seeing 'Future CNA' or 'this Barbie studies Nursing' (if that resonates with you!) written out really made it feel real. It's a fantastic way to remind yourself why you're putting in the hard work, especially when you're studying for that Prometric exam or navigating the costs of tuition and books. Speaking of costs, I remember looking at my own student ledger and seeing the total fees for my NA program, which was around $1,895.00, including the Prometric exam fee. Having that number in mind, along with my vision board, really pushed me to make the most of my investment.
Beyond the motivation, understanding the core 'nursing assistant skills' is crucial. It’s not just about the medical tasks; it’s so much more about compassion, communication, and attention to detail. Practical skills like taking vitals, assisting with personal care, and documenting observations are foundational, but soft skills are just as important. Being a good listener, showing empathy, and having patience can truly make a difference in a patient's day. I found that excelling in my studies, eventually earning a 4.0 GPA and even a President's List Award, came from combining consistent practice with a genuine desire to care for others.
Once you’re certified, a whole world of opportunities opens up. One exciting path I've been exploring is becoming a 'traveling CNA.' Imagine getting to work in different cities or states, experiencing diverse healthcare settings, and often earning a higher wage! It's an incredible option for those who love adventure and want flexibility in their career. You get to help people where they're needed most, whether it's in a bustling city hospital or a quiet rural clinic. It allows you to build a wide range of experiences and skills very quickly. While I'm just starting my journey, the idea of combining my passion for nursing with the thrill of travel is definitely part of my long-term vision. It shows how versatile and rewarding a CNA career can truly be, serving as a solid "foot in the door" to nursing and beyond. For anyone considering this path, know that it's challenging but incredibly fulfilling, and visualizing your success, mastering your skills, and exploring diverse roles like traveling CNA can make all the difference.
Not all cna classes cost that much some might be cheaper some might be more some may be free. I had a two week class. 40 hours in class and 40 in clinicals. So a total of 8 hours my course comes with workbooks textbooks uniforms patch and blood pressure cuff and stereoscope. Everything like school supplies like
Not all cna classes cost that much some might be cheaper some might be more some may be free. I had a two week class. 40 hours in class and 40 in clinicals. So a total of 8 hours my course comes with workbooks textbooks uniforms patch and blood pressure cuff and stereoscope. Everything like school supplies like