Response to Westindiancna

I know how this kind of work can get you down. Sometimes I really wonder "what in the world am I doing this for?" It can be rewarding, but you have to think about the sentimental part of it. Yes, I do feel rewarded when someone says to me "You are so kind, everyone else is so mean and pushy. Thank You!" I feel blessed. It takes a strong person to dedicate your dignity and body to less fortunate-and sometimes unappreciative persons. But If we scared everyone away with all the bad and leave out the good, there will not be any good CNA's left.

However, I understand how you feel. No one told me that after breaking my back all week, my check still wouldn't be enough to cover the bills. I expected a sore body, but I never expected to go home and wake up with the same pains from the work day before. I knew I would work hard, but I had NO idea I would be responsible for 12-17 residents at a time! I had no idea how "management" could care less about what I go through and how the lack of help effects the residents too. No one told me that some family members would be so mean, it makes you want to walk out on the spot! Sometimes all the negativity you get in one day is not enough to make you feel rewarded. I can definately understand that.

In the end, manytimes, we are all the patients have left (especially if you work in a LTC as many CNA's do). When the family is gone-sometimes for good, we are the only family they have left. We are the last faces that they see before they leave this earth. I feel, that we need to make a positive impression on these departing souls. I know I would want someone to do that for me if heaven forbid I had to live in a home for my last days. I feel proud that I did all that I could for someone who may not make it another day.

What we do we all need to be proud of. It's a job, and you are doing something soooo many people would not do. So take a bow, and pat yourself on the back. Sure it's a hard job-sometimes more demeaning than rewarding, but your helping someone that other people would not. That alone will set you apart from the rest. Us "CNA's, Caregivers, Patient Care Techs, Home Health Aides & ect" are the backbone of the healthcare community. We save lives too-and even if you feel you get no recognition for it, you do. Someone is always watching. Please remember this always!