A Certified Nursing Assistant is a crucial member of the healthcare team who provides direct care and assistance to patients, primarily in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospitals. CNAs support the daily living needs of elderly patients while ensuring their comfort and well-being.
Key Responsibilities:
- Personal Care Assistance:
- Help patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
- Assist with oral hygiene and feeding when necessary.
- Monitoring Health:
- Observe and report changes in patients' physical or emotional condition to nursing staff.
- Measure vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration) and document findings.
- Mobility Support:
- Assist patients with mobility, including transferring them from beds to wheelchairs and helping them walk.
- Encourage and support physical activity to maintain mobility and strength.
- Basic Nursing Tasks:
- Provide basic nursing care, such as changing bed linens, assisting with medical equipment, and keeping patients’ living areas clean and safe.
- Help with the preparation of patients for exams and treatments.
Qualifications:
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required.
- Certification: Completion of a state-approved CNA training program and passing a certification exam is necessary.
Skills:
- Compassion and patience when working with elderly patients.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting and moving patients.
- Basic knowledge of medical terminology and procedures.
