To become a successful Certified Nursing Assistant, you may need to complete an accredited CNA training program. However, this may not be as difficult as you think. Many programs only take four to twelve weeks to complete. The key is to adopt the proper habits and strategies from the start. This will help you get through your program without becoming overwhelmed.
In this guide, we will provide you with some survival tips for CNA classes. Follow these tips, and you will be on your way to becoming a successful CNA.
19 Tips to Survive CNA Training
1. Stay Organized
One of the best ways to succeed in CNA classes is to stay organized. This means keeping track of your assignments, deadlines, and class schedule. There are many ways to do this, including using a planner or calendar.
Find a system that works for you and stick to it. This will help you stay on top of your work and avoid falling behind.
2. Attend All the Classes and Arrive on Time
Be sure to attend all the classes and arrive on time. This may seem like common sense, but it’s important to engage in the training process fully. You may fall behind and have difficulty catching up if you miss even one class.
3. Participate in Class
CNA classes can be challenging, but participating in class will help you better understand the material. Contribute to discussions and share your opinion. Your classmates and instructor will appreciate your participation.
4. Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something. Your instructors are there to help you learn the material. If you’re having trouble with a concept, chances are other students. By asking questions, you will help yourself and your classmates.
5. Study Regularly
Studying for classes regularly will help you retain the information you’re learning. Set aside time each day or week to review your notes and complete any assigned readings. This will help ensure that you are prepared for exams and other assessments.
6. Make a Schedule and Stick to It
One of the best ways for staying organized and focused during CNA school is to make a schedule and stick to it. Create a timetable that outlines what you will be studying each day and week. This will help keep you on track and ensure you are not procrastinating.
7. Find a Study Partner
One way to make studying more effective is to find a study partner. This can be a classmate or someone you know who is also taking CNA classes. Studying with someone else will help you stay on track and make the material more understandable and improve your knowledge base.
8. Take Practice Tests
Taking practice tests is a great way to prepare for your actual exams. Many textbook publishers offer practice tests online or in print. These can be valuable resources as you study for your exams.
9. Make Time for Practice Sessions
To pass your certification exam, you will need to demonstrate proficiency in clinical skills of patient care. One way to practice these skills is by completing practice sessions outside of class. Ask your instructor if there are any practice sessions scheduled and if there are not, ask if they can recommend any resources.
You can also complete practice sessions independently by working with a partner or using online resources. When practicing at home, ensure you follow the same protocols used in the clinical setting. This will help ensure that you are prepared for when you take your certification exam.
10. Get Involved in Class Discussions
Class discussions can be a great way to learn more about the material being covered in class. In addition, they can also help you build relationships with your classmates, which can come in handy when studying for exams or completing practice sessions. Try to participate in class discussions as much as possible and offer your insights and ideas.
11. Take Notes
Taking notes is a great way to remember the information covered in class. In addition, it can also help you focus on the important points being discussed. When taking notes, be sure to write down everything that is said and any questions that come up.
This will help ensure you have all the information needed to complete assignments and study for exams later.
12. Take Advantage of Any Extra Resources
CNA classes can be challenging, but most schools offer extra resources to help students in their learning process. These resources could include tutoring, study groups, or review sessions.
Be sure to take advantage of any extra resources your school offers to get full advantage of fast-paced training. This will improve your chances of passing the class and becoming a certified nursing assistant.
13. Seek Out Tutoring Assistance if Needed
If you struggle with a particular subject or concept in CNA school, seek tutoring assistance. Many resources are available for students who need extra help, such as tutoring centers or private tutors. Do not be afraid to ask for help when you need it and most people around would be happy to help you.
14. Set Goals
When you have something to work towards, it can be easier to push through the challenging parts of the curriculum. Try to set realistic goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound, and put your best effort to achieve them. For example, a goal could be:
- I will pass my certification exam with an 85% or higher score.
- I will complete all practice sessions before my next class.
- I will read one chapter from the textbook each day.
15. Take Care of Yourself
CNA classes can be challenging, so taking care of yourself physically and mentally is essential. Eat healthy meals, exercise regularly, stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. And make sure to take breaks when you need them. When you take care of yourself, you’ll be better able to handle the challenges of classes.
16. Learn from Your Mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes, but how you learn from them counts. If you make a mistake in class, don’t beat yourself up. Instead, use it as a learning opportunity and move on.
17. Get Plenty of Rest
It is important to get plenty of rest during CNA school. When you are well-rested, you will be able to focus better in class and retain more information. Make sure you get at least eight hours of good night’s sleep daily.
18. Be Patient
CNA classes can be challenging, and it may take some time to master the material. Be patient with yourself and trust that you’ll get it eventually.
19. Stay Positive and Motivated
It can be challenging to balance school, work, and family responsibilities, but remember that the end goal is worth it! With hard work and dedication, you’ll soon become a certified nursing assistant and make a difference in people’s lives after starting a new position as CNA.
How to Maintain Work-Life Balance During CNA Training
One of the most important things to consider in CNA training is how much time you will need to commit. The CNA program usually takes around four to eight weeks. This can be a lot to juggle if you’re doing a job with co-workers and also taking on other responsibilities of your family.
The following tips would help you to manage your time and maintain a good work/life balance during CNA training:
1. Talk to Your Employer About Your Schedule
If you’re currently employed, talk to your boss about your upcoming CNA training schedule. You may be able to arrange a flexible schedule or take some time off to attend classes.
2. Find a Program with Online Components
If you have other commitments that make it difficult to attend classes in person, look for a CNA training program with some online components. This way, you can complete some of your coursework on your own time.
Following these tips can make the most of your CNA classes and help you survive CNA training while maintaining a good work/life balance.
Read Also: How to Prepare for CNA Classes – A Comprehensive Guide