A certified nursing assistant, or CNA, helps patients or clients with healthcare needs under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Also known as a Nursing Assistant (NA), a Patient Care Assistant (PCA), or a State Tested Nurse Aid (STNA), the individual who carries this title needs a strong work ethic and ability. Still, issues of liability and legality prevent CNAs from performing specific procedures.

Like home health aides, Certified Nursing Assistants often help patients feed, bathe and dress. They also help patients change positions while in bed and help them move from their beds to wheelchairs. In addition, they listen to patient's health concerns, noting symptoms or changes in patients’ conditions in their charts. They also monitor patients’ vital signs and report this information to doctors or nurses. Some states allow CNAs to administer medication. CNAs often act as primary caregivers in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities and have more contact with patients than anyone else on staff, including nurses.

DUTIES:

• As directed by a physician or nurse, administer medications or treatments such as catheterizations, suppositories, irrigations, enemas, massages, or douches.
• Clean and sanitize patient rooms, bathrooms, examination rooms, or other patient areas.
• Document or otherwise report observations of patient behavior, complaints, or physical symptoms to nurses.
• Apply clean dressings, slings, stockings, or support bandages, under the direction of a nurse or physician.
• A certified Nursing assistant in the ambulatory surgical setting provides direct and indirect patient care activities under the direction of an RN or LPN.
• Assists the RN and the LPN in preparing and recovering surgical and procedural patients.
• Assists patients with daily living activities, provide personal care, comforts, and assists in maintaining a safe and clean environment for our patients.
• Collaborates to provide nursing care: preventive, supportive, and restorative.