How to Overcome CNA Struggles

When it comes down to it, CNAs are primarily responsible for patient comfort. Whether it is helping a patient use the toilet, attending to bathing and grooming needs, turning and moving a patient, assisting a patient with eating to ensure adequate nutrition, or even fluffing a pillow; CNAs provide the comfort needed for patients to rest and heal. 

A study found on the National Library of Medicine website found that “addressing the comfort needs of patients can help reduce patients’ anxiety and stress, promoting faster recovery for patients.” According to this article, more than 56% of patient comfort falls in two categories: “nursing and diet” and “communication and care”, and the perceived comfort in these categories comes through the completion of duties typically associated with CNA roles. 

CNA role does not come without struggles

Even knowing that your job as a CNA has a direct impact on the health and wellbeing of patients, it can still be a tough job with numerous struggles. We’re going to outline some of the most common CNA struggles and provide you with ways you can overcome these challenges and have a more rewarding career experience. 

CNAs are often perceived as the second-string

One of the top CNA struggles is often the perception that they are less important than other healthcare professionals, like nurses. This perception is carried by patients, families, and even other healthcare workers — making it easy to feel undervalued and taken for granted. In actuality, proper healthcare would not be possible without the dedication and support of CNAs. 

How to overcome it

Know your worth and understand your value to the healthcare system. Use positive self-talk to remind yourself daily how important you are, and don’t let anyone else tell you otherwise. You may need to speak up for yourself at times and remind others of how your role impacts the healthcare system. You should also work to build a network of other CNAs around you. Forming relationships with others will help you support one another and build each other up when tough situations arise. 

A CNA salary is lower compared to other healthcare professions

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average CNA salary is $38,130 per year. This is $10,000 less than the median wage for all workers and $48,000 less than the registered nurses they work alongside every day. 

How to overcome it

You will need to advocate for yourself and ask for a raise at regular intervals. Clearly lay out the physical demands of your job and the importance of your role in patient care. This article from Etactics has some great data points on how improved patient care positively impacts the success of healthcare institutions you can reference when speaking with higher ups. 

You can also look for higher paying per diem or PRN CNA positions that will allow you to pick up shifts and supplement your income. 

There is less room for advancement in a CNA career

Many CNA struggles involve feeling stuck in a position without room for growth. It may appear that there isn’t much room to advance your career as a CNA because there is no direct path to management or leadership within your role. 

How to overcome it

If you’re willing to pursue additional education and training, the opportunities for advancement are limitless. You could get certified as an EMT, become an LPN, or even complete a CNA to RN bridge program. These options do take time and dedication, but they are possible and will provide significant opportunities as well as salary increases. For example, completing the right CNA to RN bridge will allow you to continue working and earning income while you complete school and will help increase your salary to over $86,000 per year on average upon completion. 

CNAs have a physically demanding job 

It’s no secret that nursing in general is a physically demanding role. However, CNAs are typically responsible for a lot of the tasks involved with supporting a patient’s body weight that can lead to injury if you’re not careful. 

How to overcome it

Start by asking patients how much of their weight they think they can bear, then observe their movements. If you’re unable to ascertain their weight-bearing ability, or if you think you may need another set of hands; wait and ask for help before trying to move the patient. Remember that good posture is key when lifting heavy objects. Make sure you understand the best ways to lift with your legs and how to hold your body in a way that will help prevent injury. Take time to rest or take a quick stretch to keep muscles and joints healthy. And you may even want to purchase a professional massage every now and then. 

CNA is a worthy (and necessary) career 

Despite the struggles you may face as a CNA, you play an important role in our healthcare system and in direct patient care. By building a community of other CNAs, knowing your own worth, taking steps to further your education in your own time, and working to enhance your own well-being; you can have a rewarding and fulfilling CNA career. 

CNA struggles are manageable when you are prepared. Use these tips to begin to overcome the challenges you face on a daily basis, and begin to think about the education you will need in the future by learning what you need to know before beginning a degree program to ensure that you have a long lasting and fulfilling healthcare career.