my new job is once again, interesting...

Post Reply New Topic

So, for the past few months I've been taking classes from an "assisted living" community. I am now a CNA, two days ago I started work. Already, this is the most intense job I've had. In the past two days I did not take a single break or eat dinner. I'm supposed to be working 8 hours (2-10), but even not taking any breaks I don't leave till 11 (or later). The people that come on at ten never help, they watch as you finish and then tell you what they've seen that you missed. They do not lift a finger until your done.


So at first I thought I was slow... Then I saw everyone else on the shift also there till 11. The same students that took the class with me are all talking about quitting and getting a job somewhere else. Were all in charge of more people then were supposed to be, even then we've got a good three or four rooms that arn't filled.


I am on one of the easier groups (at least I think so), yet me and almost half of my shift regularly skip breaks and lunch just so that we can get out almost on time. The way my work is scheduled I don't get weekends. We were told originally that we would get every other weekend off. Most of my days off are every four days, they don't coincide with the weekend. Twice I get two days off in a row, the rest just one.


I am sure that at least one of my fellow students is going to quit. The next graduating class won't graduate for several months. Actually, they haven't even started one yet. By that time they will probably have lost enough staff that they still won't be able to keep as many people on as they are supposed to.


This stinks, I don't get any breaks, I skip dinner, I still get off an hour late... The people I work with are just as mad as I am. Several of them are talking about quitting... Most of the people I work with were in my graduating class. Aside from that, all shifts are poorly staffed, we stay just within legal staffing limits. Then theres the 45 minute commute... By the time I get off work I want to do nothing but sleep... I'm leaving for work now.

This job situation does sound intense. There are a number of jobs with these problems, sadly. Some of the positions in my college are like this. Many people work over 35 to 40 hours a week and due to the workload, student load and low staff levels end of working straight without any break what so ever.

Have you looked into another place to work for? Is there are other possiblities?

Before you think about quitting carefully check to see what else is out there and if you can get it.

Good luck and be careful!

Absolutely you should quit. I worked at nursing homes back in the 80s and 90s, and it was difficult, but not as difficult as your situation is. We were not as understaffed as your place is, and we left work on time. Now that you have your CNA, you may be able to find a better place to work. I have worked through a medical temp agency as a CNA, you could try that if you need an income while you look for a better permanent position. Good luck!