Certified nursing assistant jobs are commonly available in patient care facilities, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living communities. Job responsibilities may include a combination of medical-related duties and other tasks done for the purpose of keeping patients comfortable. Many employment opportunities also exist for individuals seeking certified nursing assistant jobs for private individuals, who need or desire at-home care.
In a hospital setting, a certified nursing assistant (CNA) typically helps the registered nurses (RNs) with patient care. Taking a patient’s vital signs — such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse — and accurately recording the results is often done by a CNA. When patients need assistance to walk, rise from a hospital bed, or using restroom facilities, a CNA may be called upon to fulfill this role as a valuable aide.
In hospitals, an RN may request assistance from a CNA when performing simple medical procedures, like drawing blood. It is important to note, however, that CNAs are generally not permitted to do any invasive medical procedures. Quite often, they simply assist other medical professionals.
People with certified nursing assistant jobs have the opportunity to work closely with patients. Depending on the circumstances, the level of service a CNA provides can vary. For example, people who have difficulty feeding themselves may be assisted, or literally spoon-fed, by a CNA. Other times, the healthcare worker may provide sponge baths and help in teeth-brushing.
Some light housekeeping duties are often assumed by the CNA in various settings. Changing soiled bed sheets and straightening up a patient’s room, for example, may be part of a CNA’s daily duties. Changing and cleaning bedpans is also a frequent responsibility.
Many CNAs choose to work for private individuals, or for a healthcare company that caters to patients who live at home and need assistance on a daily basis. When a CNA works as a home health aide, many times, he or she also provides simple companionship to someone who is elderly or very ill. Some patients may enjoy watching television, solving a puzzle, or sitting outside with the assistance of a CNA. Many find the interaction and companionship enjoyable — which, in turn, improves the mood and quality of a patient’s life.
If an individual is interested in entering the medical field, and is interested in becoming a registered nurse, seeking certified nursing assistant jobs is usually a great first step. In this field, the CNA is exposed to various clinical settings and is able to learn a lot about patient care. In this way, certified nursing assistant jobs can offer valuable hands-on experience.
