XCLOSE

What Nurse Assistants Actually Do

Following is a list of 12 major themes found among the many tasks associated with CNA jobs, followed by examples that illustrate the actual tasks.

1. Direct support, treatment, and training of patients. Assist patients with personal care and comfort, such as bath, oral hygiene, grooming, elimination, and positioning, and help patients improve their ability to function more independently by providing training in various activities of daily living.
2. Follow procedures and policy guidelines. Maintain confidentiality regarding patients' medical, mental, and residency status and adhere to Health Information Accountability and Portability Act (HIPAA) guidelines and company policies.
3. Take measures, gather data, observe, and interpret patient information. Recognize changes in a patient's condition such as abnormal values in vital signs, intake, and output.
4. Document and record actions and information. Record completed tasks in charting system to document information and patient care.
5. Maintain safety standards for patients and employees. Use universal precautions when handling bodily fluids and properly clean or dispose of materials soiled by bodily fluids.
6. Interact with patients and family in appropriate and supportive ways, and promote well-being. Provide a customer-friendly environment by communicating in a professional and courteous manner with all age groups.
7. Give feedback and information to other nursing and medical staff. Keep registered nurses informed of patient status, and report changes immediately.
8. Work with a team. Work with co-workers to provide quality care.
9. Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor. Dress appropriately, maintain personal hygiene, and apply respectful communication skills with team members and customers.
10. Conduct detailed work independently and efficiently. Perform routine or repetitive tasks with proper care and attention.
11. Continue personal development and training. Maintain job competency through continued training.
12. Contend with and resolve conflicts. Maintain ability to remain calm and in control during verbal and physical threats from customers and others.