Document Type

Article

Domestic/International

Domestic

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

In this paper I reflect on my experience completing an eight week Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) course in preparation for nursing school. The course consisted of lecture, hands-on lab practice, and clinical rotations. During this course I gained practical skills such as taking vital signs, assisting patients with activities of daily living, and using infection control protocols. I gained technical abilities, developed a deeper sense of cultural sensitivity, and learned the importance of teamwork and communication in providing quality care to patients. I spent time on a dementia care floor and here I learned the value of self-compassion and how important it is for me to remain calm and reliable in challenging situations. I had the opportunity to observe quality care and inappropriate care which inspired me to commit to building genuine relationships with my patients to support their mental and physical health. This course gave me a strong clinical foundation needed to pursue my career and it deepened my passion for the field of nursing.

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The views expressed in this paper are solely those of the author.