5 Things Every New CNA Should Know Before Their First Shift
Starting your first CNA shift? Here are five real-world tips every new nursing assistant should know—from managing nerves to staying organized on the floor. Step in with confidence—you’ve got this.
You’ve studied hard and passed your skills test, and now it’s time to start your very first shift as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Cue the nerves! Feeling a little overwhelmed before clocking in is normal, but don’t worry—you’ve got this. Before you rock that name badge and get to work, here are five things to remember.
1. It’s okay to be nervous
Everyone remembers their first day. You’re stepping into people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments, and that takes heart. Take a deep breath, lead compassionately, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
2. Time management is your new best friend
Charting, vital signs, call lights, turning patients... oh my! Learning to prioritize tasks will help you stay on top of everything. Just remember—you don’t have to do it perfectly. You have to keep improving.
3. Communication is key
Talk to your nurses, your patients, and your fellow CNAs. Don’t assume—ask. Don’t guess—double-check. And if you need help? Say so. You’re part of a team now, and your voice matters.
4. Take care of yourself too
Pack snacks. Bring water. Wear good shoes. Your body will be doing the Lord’s work—keep it fueled and supported! Trust me on this one, and stretch before and after.
5. Every shift is a chance to grow
Some days will be challenging, and some will be beautiful. But every shift teaches you something—about care, resilience, and who you are becoming. You’re not just starting a job but stepping into your calling.
Conclusion:
Your first CNA shift is a huge milestone. You won’t know everything right away, and that’s okay. What matters most is your willingness to learn, your heart to serve, and your commitment to showing up. You’ve got this, and we’re cheering for you every step of the way.
The Benefits of Using One Company to Renew your BLS, ACLS & PALS Certifications
Renewing your BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications is necessary for all healthcare professionals who provide emergency medical care. However, renewing these certifications can take time and effort, especially if you go through multiple providers. One solution is to use a single company to renew your certifications. You can save time and effort, ensure consistency in the quality of your education and training, benefit from cost savings, simplify certification tracking, and enjoy a more cohesive and integrated learning experience. Overall, renewing your BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications through a single company can make the process easier and more efficient, allowing you to focus on providing excellent patient care.
For healthcare professionals who need to provide emergency medical care, renewing your BLS, ACLS, and PALS (Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support) certifications is a must. However, renewing these licenses can be time-consuming and confusing, especially if you go through multiple providers. One solution is to use a single company to renew your licenses. Here are some advantages to renewing your BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications through a single company:
Convenience: You can save time and effort by renewing all your certifications with one company. You are not required to look for different providers or fill out multiple applications and requirements. Instead, you can renew all your certifications with a single application and process.
Consistency: Renewing your certifications with the same company ensures that you receive the same level of quality and service for all of your courses. You don't have to be concerned about differences in curriculum, instructors, or standards between providers. Instead, you can get your education and training from a consistent and dependable source.
Saving money: Some businesses provide discounts or bundled packages for renewing multiple certifications. You can save money by renewing your BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications with the same company rather than renewing each certification separately.
Simplified tracking: When you renew your certifications with the same company, you can easily track and manage your certification status. You don't have to keep track of various expiration dates, providers, or requirements. Instead, you can use a single platform or account to track your progress and ensure compliance.
Enhanced learning experience: Renewing your certifications with the same company can provide a more cohesive and integrated learning experience. You can better understand the interconnections between different courses and benefit from a unified approach to emergency medical care.
Life-Ed 4 Nurses is a comprehensive education and training platform for healthcare professionals who need to renew their BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications. With Life-Ed 4 Nurses, you can enjoy the convenience, consistency, cost savings, simplified tracking, and enhanced learning experience that come with using one company to renew all of your certifications.
Ryan Tacazon is the author of several LinkedIn blog posts about respiratory therapy education. He has a Master's degree in Organizational Leadership and holds an active license as a Registered Respiratory Therapist and a Licensed Vocational Nurse. He lives in Fontana, California, with his wife and their two dogs.