Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Description

Position Overview

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare support professional who provides direct patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses (RNs and LPNs). CNAs serve as the primary caregivers for patients' daily needs, offering essential assistance with activities of daily living, basic medical tasks, and emotional support. They play a vital role in the healthcare team by spending the most time with patients and serving as their advocate.

Primary Responsibilities

Certified Nursing Assistants provide hands-on patient care, assist with personal hygiene and mobility, monitor patient conditions, and support the nursing staff in delivering quality healthcare. They work closely with patients to ensure comfort, safety, and dignity while maintaining accurate documentation of care provided.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Direct Patient Care

• Assist patients with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting)

• Help patients with eating and drinking, including feeding assistance when necessary

• Support patient mobility, transfers, and positioning to prevent complications

• Change bed linens and maintain clean, comfortable patient environments

• Provide skin care and basic wound care under nursing supervision

• Assist with range of motion exercises and ambulation

Vital Signs and Basic Monitoring

• Take and record vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, pulse, respiration)

• Monitor and document patient weight and fluid intake/output

• Observe and report changes in patient condition, behavior, or comfort level

• Check blood glucose levels using glucometers (where certified)

• Monitor and report signs of infection, injury, or adverse reactions

• Ensure patient safety by implementing fall prevention measures

Patient Comfort and Support

• Provide emotional support and companionship to patients and families

• Respond to patient call lights and requests promptly

• Assist with personal care items and comfort measures

• Help patients with communication needs and family interactions

• Maintain patient dignity and privacy during all care activities

• Provide reassurance and encouragement during difficult times

Documentation and Communication

• Accurately document all care provided and patient observations

• Report significant changes in patient condition to supervising nurse

• Maintain detailed records of vital signs, intake/output, and daily activities

• Communicate effectively with healthcare team members during shift changes

• Participate in care planning meetings and patient rounds when appropriate

• Complete incident reports and other required documentation

Infection Control and Safety

• Follow proper hand hygiene and infection control protocols

• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriately

• Maintain clean and sterile environments in patient care areas

• Properly dispose of medical waste and contaminated materials

• Implement safety measures to prevent patient falls and injuries

• Follow facility policies for hazardous material handling

Equipment and Supply Management

• Operate and maintain basic medical equipment (blood pressure cuffs, thermometers, etc.)

• Ensure proper cleaning and storage of patient care equipment

• Monitor and report equipment malfunctions or safety concerns

• Maintain adequate supplies in patient care areas

• Assist with inventory management and restocking as needed

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Current CNA certification or diploma

• Current CPR certification (Basic Life Support)

• Clear background check and drug screening

• 1 Night shift and 1 Day shift available

• Facility housing provided