Certified Nursing Assistants and Certified Nurse Aides (both of which are abbreviated as “CNA”) play a vital role in the healthcare industry, providing essential care and support to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings.
A CNA’s average workday is a whirlwind of tasks, requiring patience, quick thinking, and a strong sense of responsibility.
The day typically begins with a thorough handover from the previous shift. CNAs need to be well-informed about each patient's condition, treatment plan, and specific needs, so open, honest communication between day and night shift teams is crucial.
The day typically begins with a thorough handover from the previous shift. CNAs need to be well-informed about each patient's condition, treatment plan, and specific needs, so open, honest communication between day and night shift teams is crucial.
After receiving these updates, CNAs prepare for rounds. They may start by assisting patients with their morning routines, which often include helping with bathing, dressing, and grooming. This part of the job is not just about physical care but fostering a sense of dignity and respect for patients.
Once patients are settled, CNAs often collaborate closely with registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to complete other tasks. These duties may include taking vital signs, such as blood pressure, pulse, and temperature, recording data, and reporting any abnormalities promptly.
CNAs also assist with transferring patients from beds to wheelchairs or stretchers, ensuring their safety during these movements. Proper body mechanics are crucial to prevent injury to both the patient and the CNA.
CNAs also assist with transferring patients from beds to wheelchairs or stretchers, ensuring their safety during these movements. Proper body mechanics are crucial to prevent injury to both the patient and the CNA.
Mealtimes are another significant aspect of a CNA's day. In some facilities, trained dining assistants may work alongside nurse aides to help patients with their meals, ensuring they receive proper nutrition. For individuals with dietary restrictions or feeding tubes, CNAs must follow specific protocols to guarantee their nutritional needs are met.
On top of their other tasks throughout the day, CNAs are responsible for monitoring and documenting patients' conditions. They record changes in vital signs, intake and output, and any notable symptoms or concerns. This documentation is critical for the healthcare team's assessment and decision-making processes.
One of the most challenging, yet rewarding, aspects of a CNA's job is providing emotional support to their patients.
While CNAs are often responsible for duties like responding to patient call lights in a timely manner, a large portion of their work is appropriately addressing and responding to patients’ emotional needs. It’s not uncommon for healthcare workers to form bonds with those they care for, and offering comfort, empathy, and companionship can greatly improve a patient's quality of life during their stay.
While CNAs are often responsible for duties like responding to patient call lights in a timely manner, a large portion of their work is appropriately addressing and responding to patients’ emotional needs. It’s not uncommon for healthcare workers to form bonds with those they care for, and offering comfort, empathy, and companionship can greatly improve a patient's quality of life during their stay.
In addition to focused patient care, Certified Nurse Assistants may also assist with miscellaneous hospital or care home tasks, such as restocking supplies, organizing patient rooms, and maintaining cleanliness and infection control standards. These tasks seem menial but are important to maintaining efficient function of any healthcare facility.
As the day comes to a close, CNAs once again provide updates to the oncoming shift, ensuring that continuity of care is maintained.
The work of a CNA can be both mentally and physically demanding, but their role is crucial in ensuring the wellbeing of patients. Their dedication and tireless efforts make them the unsung heroes of the healthcare industry!
The work of a CNA can be both mentally and physically demanding, but their role is crucial in ensuring the wellbeing of patients. Their dedication and tireless efforts make them the unsung heroes of the healthcare industry!
