What a Certified Nursing Assistant does is acting as the link between the patients and the nurse or the doctor. They ensure that the patients are happy with the care they are receiving, and that the doctors have an easy time attending to their clients. That’s the basic CNA job description; working around patients and their doctors.
Though unwritten, there is a rule that guides those wishing to pursue a career in nursing: you must be very good with people. Since the CNA’s job description mainly involves dealing with people who need your time and sympathy, it is therefore paramount that you be a people’s person to thrive in this field.
Minimum Skills Required for CNA Job
Before being certified as a Nursing Assistant and allowed to practice, there are certain minimum knowledge, skills and requirements that you must first fulfill.
1. Knowledge in basic arithmetic. There will be instances when you will be required to do some computations, and having some knowledge in arithmetic comes in handy.
2. Great interpersonal skills and human relations. Since the CNA’s job mainly involves dealing with people, these skills are very important in establishing courteous relationships and building trust with the patients.
3. A good command of the English language. Most western countries require that you know proper English for the sake of effective communication; if you go to Europe the situation may be different though. Mastery of language is emphasized to ensure no communication breakdown occurs.
4. Continually learn in respect to role defined and contribute to the development of patient care plan under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. This means a CNA will be required to keep abreast with the latest developments in their respective areas.
5. Be conversant with the standards, procedures, policies and the structures in the field of nursing which help the CNA perform various duties necessary to provide care for the patients.
6. Be computer literate. Many operations in virtually all sectors are being computerized and knowledge in computer will always give you an edge in your job.
CNA Job Description
These tasks are spelled out under the CNA’s scope of responsibilities. Notably, they vary depending on where the CNA is working.
1. Take vital signs like temperature and respiration. The reading and recording of these must be accurately done.
2. General patient care. This includes daily personal activities like bathing, toileting ad feeding the patients. It goes beyond these three, to ensure maximum comfort for the patient is maintained.
3. Control infection. Whether through isolation or other means such as hand washing, the CNA must ensure that infections are effectively contained and they don’t spread.
4. Aid in patient movement and exercise. The CNA is supposed to help the patients move about and exercise as spelled out in the CNA job description. Movement and exercise are crucial to the patient as they ensure that general health is maintained and proper musculoskeletal structure and function.
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