Reflective Essay

I’ve always been drawn to helping people in meaningful ways, and working hands-on in healthcare lets me support patients directly and make a real impact on their daily lives. During my internship in the Med-Surg department, I worked with CNAs like Sheena, Torreta, Addie, and Ruthie, assisting with vital signs, blood sugars, charting, feeding, water, mobility, hygiene, and bed changes. I also observed IV removal, wound care, and learned important safety procedures. This experience showed me that CNAs need both clinical skills and strong empathy, patience, and flexibility. It was physically and emotionally challenging but also rewarding, and it helped me realize that I enjoy working directly with patients and want to continue pursuing a future in nursing.

       As a CNA intern, I helped with the basic daily care that patients rely on. I took vitals, charted electronically and on paper, helped with feeding and water, changed linens, cleaned rooms, handled waste properly, and assisted patients with mobility, bathroom needs, and hygiene. I also observed wound care, IV removal, and safety protocols. The job requires compassion, patience, communication, teamwork, and strong attention to detail and also physical stamina along with following HIPAA. To become a CNA, you don’t need a college degree, but you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the NNAAP exam in Colorado, and keep your certification updated every two years. Many CNAs go on to become LPNs or RNs, and I plan to continue into nursing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, CNA jobs are growing, especially with an aging population, and hospitals and care facilities are always hiring.

      During my internship, I helped with basic patient care like taking vitals, checking blood sugar, changing linens, helping with feeding and water, assisting with mobility, bathroom needs, and handling waste or catheter bags. I charted both on paper and online, responded to bed alarms, and observed wound care, IV removal, and other procedures. At first I was nervous being a high-school student around experienced CNAs, but they welcomed me, helped me learn, and encouraged me to ask questions. Working with different CNAs and different patients pushed me to learn quickly, adapt to routines, and communicate better. I realized how much patience, empathy, and physical effort the job takes, and I learned more from real practice than from any textbook.

     Working as a CNA intern showed me that being a caregiver takes both practical skills and real empathy. I saw how CNAs help patients with daily needs, monitor vitals, assist with mobility, document care, and offer comfort, not just tasks. This experience helped me understand what patient-centered care really looks like and how important CNAs are in a medical team. I now feel more confident about continuing in healthcare, possibly becoming an LPN or RN, while still valuing the hands-on work CNAs do. My next step is to get certified, gain more experience, and keep learning about nursing and possible specialties.