What is the Hardest Thing about Being a Certified Nurse Assistant in Homecare?

Despite the challenges, being a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) in homecare is both interesting and rewarding. Every day brings new opportunities to connect with people and make meaningful differences in their lives. However, the job is not without its trials.

As a Home Care Nurse Assistant, my responsibilities extend beyond simple health care. I assist clients with their daily living activities, ensuring they are as independent and comfortable as possible. The clients I work with come from diverse backgrounds and situations, ranging from those who are old and mean to those who are old and sweet, and those who are old and sick. This diversity is both a challenge and a learning experience, as it requires a lot of empathy, patience, and understanding.

The Diverse Clients and Their Challenges

The first challenge I face is the variety of clients I work with. Some clients suffer from dementia, making it difficult to know who I am or what is happening around them. Others live with physical disabilities that require round-the-clock care. And then there are those who are simply upset or confrontational due to their worsening health conditions. Handling these situations requires a lot of emotional intelligence and patience. Some clients, especially those who are elderly and have memory issues, often mistake me for an intruder or assume I am there to steal from them. These scenarios can be stressful, but they also fuel my passion for the job. I wouldn’t be happy doing a different job because I find immense satisfaction in helping the elderly and listening to their stories.

Addressing Prejudices and the Importance of Kindness

One of the most challenging aspects of my job is dealing with prejudices. For instance, some clients may be mean because of their preconceived notions based on my race. Despite this, I treat every client with the same level of kindness and respect. The fact that I have worked with clients from various races and backgrounds has made me realize that we are all human, and the good or bad things we do to each other, such as being mean or compassionate, are not worth the division they create. As I get older, I realize the importance of being kind to everyone, as we all need someone to help us out in our times of vulnerability.

The Spiritual and Moral Implications of the Job

The job of a homecare nurse assistant also has a strong spiritual component. There is a biblical verse in Luke 6:31 that states, “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” This principle guides me in my interactions with my clients. It emphasizes the importance of treating everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their past behaviors or prejudices. By doing this, we create a society that is more supportive and understanding.

Additionally, the job can be physically demanding. After 18 years, my neck has been affected by the daily lifting and carrying of clients, leading to a disability. However, this physical challenge has made me appreciate my ability to help even more. It has also shown me that we need to take care of our bodies and use them wisely.

In conclusion, being a Home Care Nurse Assistant is not without its challenges, but the rewards are immeasurable. Every day, I have the opportunity to make a difference in someone's life, and that is what keeps me going. Whether it's helping a client who is mean or dealing with physical limitations, the job is always worth it because it allows me to demonstrate kindness, empathy, and respect for all people, who are ultimately the same human beings.