A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) plays a crucial role in the healthcare system by providing direct patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses or healthcare professionals. Here are some key roles and responsibilities of a CNA:
Assisting with Daily Activities: CNAs help patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. They ensure that patients maintain their personal hygiene and comfort.
Vital Signs Monitoring: CNAs are responsible for measuring and recording vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse rate, respiratory rate, and temperature. This information helps healthcare professionals assess the patient's overall health.
Mobility Assistance: CNAs assist patients with mobility, which includes helping them walk, transfer from beds to wheelchairs, and providing support for exercises prescribed by healthcare professionals.
Nutrition Support: CNAs may assist with feeding patients who require help, ensuring that they receive adequate nutrition. They may also monitor and record patients' food and fluid intake.
Patient Observation: CNAs observe and report changes in patients' physical or emotional condition to the nursing staff. This includes noting any signs of discomfort, pain, or changes in behavior.
Maintaining a Safe Environment: CNAs are responsible for creating a safe and clean environment for patients. This includes keeping patient rooms tidy, ensuring proper sanitation, and following infection control protocols.
Communication: CNAs communicate with patients, their families, and other healthcare team members. They provide information about patients' conditions, report any concerns, and offer emotional support.
Documentation: CNAs maintain accurate and up-to-date records of patient care activities. This includes recording vital signs, daily activities, and any changes in the patient's condition.
Assisting with Medical Procedures: CNAs may assist licensed nurses with various medical procedures such as wound care, catheterization, and monitoring medical equipment.
Providing Comfort and Emotional Support: CNAs offer emotional support to patients and their families. They may engage in conversation, provide companionship, and offer reassurance to patients in stressful situations.
Following Care Plans: CNAs follow care plans developed by healthcare professionals, ensuring that they provide care in accordance with established guidelines and treatment plans.
It's important to note that specific duties may vary depending on the healthcare setting (e.g., hospitals, nursing homes, home healthcare) and state regulations. Additionally, CNAs work as part of a larger healthcare team, collaborating with nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive patient care.
Benefits
At Maxim Healthcare Staffing, we firmly believe that our employees are the heartbeat of our organization and we are happy to offer the following benefits:
Competitive pay & weekly paychecks
Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
401(k) savings plan
Awards and recognition programs
*Benefit eligibility is dependent on employment status.
About Maxim Healthcare Staffing
Maxim Healthcare Staffing has been making a difference in the lives of our patients, caregivers, and employees for more than 30 years. Our nationwide suite of services includes home healthcare, companion and behavioral care, healthcare staffing, and workforce solutions. Maxim's commitment to customer service, compassionate patient care, and filling critical staffing needs makes us a trusted partner wherever healthcare is needed.
Maxim Healthcare Staffing is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.