A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides essential care to patients in various healthcare settings.
They support nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals by attending to the basic needs of patients and ensuring they receive high-quality care.
Here is an overview of the job description, duties, and responsibilities of a CNA:
Job Description
Certified Nursing Assistants are vital members of the healthcare team who assist in basic patient care under the supervision of nursing staff. CNAs often work in hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and private homes, providing hands-on care and support to patients.
Duties and Responsibilities
Patient Care
- Assist with Daily Living Activities (ADLs): Help patients with bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and mobility.
- Monitor Vital Signs: Check and record blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respiration rates.
- Provide Basic Comfort: Ensure patients are comfortable by adjusting bedding, helping with toilet needs, and repositioning bedridden patients to prevent bedsores.
Health Observation
- Report Changes: Monitor patients’ physical and emotional conditions and report any changes or abnormalities to nursing staff.
- Document Information: Accurately document patients’ care, activities, and progress in medical records.
Support and Assistance
- Assist with Medical Procedures: Help nurses and doctors during medical procedures and exams.
- Administer Medication: Under the supervision of nursing staff, administer prescribed medications to patients.
- Transport Patients: Assist with moving patients to and from beds, wheelchairs, and exam rooms.
Housekeeping and Maintenance
- Maintain Cleanliness: Keep patients’ rooms and common areas clean and sanitary.
- Sanitize Equipment: Ensure all medical equipment and supplies are properly sanitized and stored.
Communication
- Patient Interaction: Communicate effectively with patients to understand their needs and provide emotional support.
- Family Liaison: Provide information and support to patients’ families regarding care and medical processes.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Completion of a state-approved CNA training program.
- Successful passing of a state competency exam to obtain certification.
- BLS (Basic Life Support) certification may be required.
Skills
- Compassionate and patient.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
- Physical stamina to assist with patient mobility and perform various tasks.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Physically demanding with regular lifting, bending, and standing.
- May require working shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
A career as a Certified Nursing Assistant is both challenging and rewarding, providing an important foundation in the field of healthcare and making a significant impact on the lives of patients.