State-Tested Nursing Assistant
During summer of 2013, I decided to get training and become an STNA. While STNAs have more training and broader medical applications than a traditional CNA, much of the work is similar.
The job of an STNA is not glorious by any means. It involves showering, caring for, transporting, lifting, and feeding patients who otherwise cannot do these daily activities (ADLs) on their own. STNAs often work with patients who need more skilled care. There are so many other healthcare jobs that are easier. Why, then, did I choose to become an STNA? I wanted the patient interaction, and I wanted to build my direct care experience.
First of all, I have some care-giving experience from growing up. My grandmother had suffered a few major strokes and was left mostly incapacitated. Our family took care of my grandmother for five years until she passed away. Still in middle school, I had to mature rather quickly, as everyday after school my mother and I would head over to my grandfather's house to help take care of my grandmother. Having this experience, however, was something that primed me for healthcare even if I didn't realize it at the time.
My friends say "old people love you." I do think that my interpersonal interaction skills have developed quite a bit. I look back at my other experiences and realize that what I loved most about them was the person to person interaction. Since starting in July, this experience of caring for others on such a basic and intimate level has been a unique and transforming experience that even further solidified my future plans.
I work on a sub-acute transitional care unit, which is a sort of rehabilitation floor with all sorts of residents. Some stay only a few weeks, others stay for years. All, however, go to therapy sessions whether it be physical, occupational, speech, or a combination of the three. The residents are there for all sorts of reasons, from broken limbs to diabetes to Multiple Sclerosis to mental care to alcoholism rehab. Every one has their own set of unique needs and care plans and personalities.
The job was overwhelming at first: there were call lights going off all the time and I had no idea how the other aids had time to handle everything especially with so many residents. But I soon came to learn a very important lesson: I had to first get to know the resident before giving care. Knowing who needs help with what allows me to plan my day ahead and leave time to answer lights and give showers. A lot of the resident information was on their care plan, but talking to residents was the most effective way to measure where they are mentally and physically.
While the work is not easy or pleasant, I find that I enjoy talking to the residents and fostering relationships with them while they are there. Very few actually want to be in the center, so I figure the least I can do is help their emotional, physical, and mental needs. I feel that in the time I have been there, I have been able to get valuable hands-on medical and interpersonal experience by working closely with other aides, nurses, nurse practicioners, and medical doctors. After a long shift, I feel great having worked a job that ensures I am helping those who need all the help they can get.
I plan to keep the STNA at Heartland of Woodridge working 30 hours/week until the beginning of 2014 when I head off to study abroad.
The job of an STNA is not glorious by any means. It involves showering, caring for, transporting, lifting, and feeding patients who otherwise cannot do these daily activities (ADLs) on their own. STNAs often work with patients who need more skilled care. There are so many other healthcare jobs that are easier. Why, then, did I choose to become an STNA? I wanted the patient interaction, and I wanted to build my direct care experience.
First of all, I have some care-giving experience from growing up. My grandmother had suffered a few major strokes and was left mostly incapacitated. Our family took care of my grandmother for five years until she passed away. Still in middle school, I had to mature rather quickly, as everyday after school my mother and I would head over to my grandfather's house to help take care of my grandmother. Having this experience, however, was something that primed me for healthcare even if I didn't realize it at the time.
My friends say "old people love you." I do think that my interpersonal interaction skills have developed quite a bit. I look back at my other experiences and realize that what I loved most about them was the person to person interaction. Since starting in July, this experience of caring for others on such a basic and intimate level has been a unique and transforming experience that even further solidified my future plans.
I work on a sub-acute transitional care unit, which is a sort of rehabilitation floor with all sorts of residents. Some stay only a few weeks, others stay for years. All, however, go to therapy sessions whether it be physical, occupational, speech, or a combination of the three. The residents are there for all sorts of reasons, from broken limbs to diabetes to Multiple Sclerosis to mental care to alcoholism rehab. Every one has their own set of unique needs and care plans and personalities.
The job was overwhelming at first: there were call lights going off all the time and I had no idea how the other aids had time to handle everything especially with so many residents. But I soon came to learn a very important lesson: I had to first get to know the resident before giving care. Knowing who needs help with what allows me to plan my day ahead and leave time to answer lights and give showers. A lot of the resident information was on their care plan, but talking to residents was the most effective way to measure where they are mentally and physically.
While the work is not easy or pleasant, I find that I enjoy talking to the residents and fostering relationships with them while they are there. Very few actually want to be in the center, so I figure the least I can do is help their emotional, physical, and mental needs. I feel that in the time I have been there, I have been able to get valuable hands-on medical and interpersonal experience by working closely with other aides, nurses, nurse practicioners, and medical doctors. After a long shift, I feel great having worked a job that ensures I am helping those who need all the help they can get.
I plan to keep the STNA at Heartland of Woodridge working 30 hours/week until the beginning of 2014 when I head off to study abroad.