Chapter 10 NA Caring for Yourself

Finding a job When making an appointment, ask what information to bring with you. Take resume and references with you. Fill out the application neatly. Never lie Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early Dress neatly and appropriately Introduce yourself, smile and shake hands

Be prepared with questions to ask as well. Be positive when answering questions. Send a thank-you letter after every job interview. Make sure you remember who interviewed you and for which job if you call back to check on the status of your application, or are called to be offered the job.

Resolving conflict Discuss the issue at the right time, in private Agree not to interrupt, listen and take turns speaking Keep emotions down Maintain eye contact, be calm State how you feel, use I statements and feeling words.

Evaluations Meant to help improve your job performance Listen to the message sent, don’t get so upset you can’t understand the message. If you are not sure how to avoid a mistake always ask for suggestions. Apologize and move on, learn from the incident and respond professionally for success. Be open to criticism and suggestions for improvement to help you succeed.

Leaving a job Be responsible- give at least two weeks notice. People who change jobs too often or don’t give notice before leaving are less likely to be hired.

Certification and state registry OBRA requires 75 hours initial training and 12 hours annual continued education (in-services). SC requires 80 hours of training and 40 hours of clinicals prior to testing. After the training, there is a certification exam consisting of written and skills. You must pass both parts within 24 months of completing the class in order to be certified. You are allowed three attempts. Cost presently is $101 for the tests each time. Certification is good for two years and will need renewed.

SCDHHS nurse aid registry Contains NA training information Contains results of certification exams Contains findings of abuse, neglect or theft by nursing assistants. You can lose certification for criminal activities, not working as an aid for a period of time, not getting the required number of continuing education hours.

Stress Manage stress Don’t bring your problems to work It is not appropriate to talk to your residents or their family members about your personal or job related stress Develop a plan Be proud of the work you have chosen to do. It is important!