A CNA's job description consists of performing resident/patient care activities and related services necessary in caring for the needs, safety, and comfort of the resident/patient. Patient care activities which includes taking vital signs, assisting with bathing and dressing, changing bed pans, and assistance with exercise and mobility. A CNA needs to be able to work well in a high stress environment, needs to be a well- organized and efficient individual, have accurate charting ability, ability to learn new tasks quickly, and the ability to lift and transfer resident/patient proficiently with using lifting devices. CNAs also assist with feeding residents/patients on a daily basis. Indeed, this job description seems a little strenuous but, amongst those that love this profession, its second hand nature.
CNA certification training provides you with the knowledge and many of the skills required. Approximately four weeks of training is required to prepare you to take the state's certification exam (CNA Certification- Training.com). In fact, there are only 3 steps in obtaining a certificate as a CNA:.
1. Complete an accredited CNA training program.
2. Pass a nationally recognized certification exam.
3. Get listed in your state's nurse aide registry.
CNA's are considered direct care workers and most times considered to be the eyes and ears for Licensed Practical Nurses and also Registered Nurses. Likewise, patients/residents families are also in direct contact with CNAs. A required job duty as a CNA is to be able to chart accurately on patients/residents activities. This includes, vital signs, mobility, change in behavior, weight, and food/water consumption. According to a Blog, first shift nursing homes must have one CNA to every nine patient/resident (Nursing Home Reality).
Excellent physical mobility is definitely required to perform transfers to and from bed and also assist with dressing. Patient care is assigned to CNAs at a ratio.