Certified Nursing Assistant

CNAs provide direct patient care, both medical and non-medical. They are typically supervised by Registered Nurses (RN) and often assist Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in accordance with Agency philosophy and established standards of home health and nursing practice.

Essential Functions:

• The CNA visits each patient at the place of residence, observing any changes in behavior or health. This nursing assistant also measures vital signs such as temperature, respiration and blood pressure in accordance with the appropriate plan of care established for the patient.
• Receives and reviews assignment form completed for each individual case.
• Provides Home Health Aide services as outline by the patient's plan of care.

• Performs specific patient care tasks as assigned, which may include:

  • Activities of Daily Living: The aide helps the patient with bathing, washing, grooming and dressing. She may prepare food, and assist the patient with eating.
  • Nutrition and Medical Records: Assists in meal planning , preparation and nutritional assistance.The aide documents nutritional and liquid intake as much as possible, and provides medication reminders as appropriate.
  • Health Monitoring: The aide visits each patient at the place of residence or appropriate home care setting, observing any changes in behavior or health. Measures vital signs such as temperature, respiration and blood pressure and reporting to appropriate supervisor and/or nursing when warranted.
  • Housekeeping: Routine light housekeeping of the patient's immediate environment in a state of cleanliness and safety.
  • Companionship: Provide social support and companionship to their clients, who may be completely house-bound and not receive many visitors.

• Ensures quality and safe delivery of Home Health Aide services.

• Maintains accurate, complete and timely clinical records.

• Communicates patient questions, concerns or complaints to appropriate individual(s) in a timely manner to take corrective measures.
• Maintains confidentiality or patient information.
• Implements appropriate infection control and safety measures and reports all hazards or accidents in a timely and accurate manner.
• Utilizes proper body mechanics consistently.

• Participates in case conferences as deemed appropriate.

• Participates in professional growth and development.

• Attends basic training sessions prior to being assigned in a patient's home.

• Attends a minimum of 12 hours of in-service training within every calendar year.
• Demonstrates current knowledge of the basic principles of home health aide practice.
• Provides input to the development and revision of Agency clinical and administrative policies and procedures.

• Participates in the Quality Assessment and Improvement Program.

• Fulfills additional performance responsibilities as assigned and necessary.

Physical Requirements: Visual/hearing ability sufficient to comprehend written/oral communication. Ability to deal effectively with stress.

Working Conditions: Works in office areas as well as in client homes and in assisted and independent living facilities. Sits, stands, bends, lifts, and moves intermittently during working hours. Interacts with clients, family members, staff, visitors, government agencies/personnel, etc., under all conditions/circumstances. Is subject to hostile and emotionally upset clients, family members, staff, visitors, etc. under all conditions/circumstances. Is involved in community/civic health matters/projects. May be exposed to infectious waste, diseases, conditions, etc., including exposure to HIV and hepatitis viruses. Communicates with the medical staff, nursing staff, and other supervisors. Maintains a liaison with clients, their families, support staff, etc. to assure that the clients' needs are continually met.

Qualifications: Minimum of a High School diploma or equivalent. Successful completion of CNA certification program. Currently registered to practice within the state of operation (with no restrictions) with a minimum of one year of experience as a CNA. Must be able to speak and write in English.

Certification and License Requirements: CNA Certificate