First day at nursing home work?

I start tomorrow working at a nursing home for the first day as a dietary assistant/cook aid. What should I expect? I'm quite nervous about this, since I know noting about it. Please help i can't sleep!!

also , its a small town with TWO nursing homes, so i don't think ther should be many residents. Thats a little more relaxing

The first day (at all jobs) is nerve-racking!

Try to relax, and remember that meeting new people and learning new routines can be stressful, but it will get easier and more comfortable.

Nursing homes can be depressing when you first arrive as a worker, seeing so many people who have lost their independence due to illnesses of all types. It is a little overwhelming when you realize that this is their entire world now.

Depending upon the level of care at your new place, there may be some patients/residents who are able to relate to you and smile with joy to see you, while others have lost touch.

Their meals are a very important part of their daily life, one of the few things they often have to look forward to...so know that you are making a valuable contribution by doing something for them that they no longer are able (or lucky enough) to be able to do on their own. And don't take the complainers personally...complaining about food is pretty common even if there's no problem with the food.

Stay focused on the particular dietary needs and requirements you have to meet for each patient. If you see something that doesn't seem right to you, doublecheck with nursing staff or proper person without ruffling any feathers- if possible!

No matter how tough your day may be, always try to have a smile for the residents. Many don't have visitors, and the only sense of family or friends they can feel in their heart now is with the staff...so a smile and a friendly hello may mean a lot.

Hopefully, your co-workers will be nice and you will enjoy your new position. If you feel unsure about your new job after the first day...give it some time, that's natural.

Good luck!