I'm a Gna and 17. I started a new job and....?

Question

I've been a CNA (certified nursing assistant) and a GNA (geriatric nursing assistant) for less than 6 months. I had my 48 hours of cvlinical experience and I worked with my classmates in pairs so I basically always worked with someone. I recently started a job in a nursing home and relaized it wasnt for me. I finished a whole day and the next day literally had to leave after an hour of work because I couldnt leave the bathroom because of my tears. I have been traumatized because my grandmothers were both demented beofre they died and when I take care of people like them the feelings seem to suh bac. I think I', too sensitive for it and it's hard work. good money for a 17 year old but I dont know If i can do it. Is this normal feelings? I kow It can be overwhelming to work in the health career and I eventually wanna be an RN but I wanna make people better not wait for them to die. I'm scared and dont know what to do wiht my life. Any advice?

Answer 1

Your feelings are absolutely normal.  Certain situations take us all back to the past, often to parts of our lives that we'd prefer to not live all over again.  Do not give up on your dreams!  Take this as a learning experience that you are not meant to care for geriatric patients.  Choose a different specialty: pediatrics, obstetrics, etc.  There are plenty of choices that will not cause such strong emotions for you.  On a positive note, this shows that you're a caring person.  That is a perfect trait for an RN.  They're needed in the field.  With time you become desensitized to a lot of painful situations.  Good luck with your dreams :)