The Role Of A Certified Nursing Assistant

While many medical and nursing professionals are intricately involved with the care of a patient, there is no one more intimately involved than a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). As they provide care, they are the eyes and ears for those that they report to. Educated to recognize changes in condition, they can prevent or stop deterioration in health status. The need for CNAs is expected to grow as people are living longer and Baby Boomers are reaching retirement and desire care at home. CNAs are the boots on the ground as they attend to the most basic of patient needs which provides them with a unique opportunity to alter the course of a potential health complication. The role of the CNA is primarily to aid with activities of daily living (ADLs). As noted by Pulliam1 those activities include eating, toileting, dressing and bathing. They assist with walking and when needed, transferring to or from a wheelchair.1 Along with ADLs, they are trained to assess vital signs,
With a higher than average predicted growth rate and people living longer, there is occupational security in this field. Additionally, the training and experience that CNAs obtain can be considered the groundwork for entry into the nursing field. While there are positive aspects, the work of a CNA is not easy. They work long hours in a fast-passed environment. They frequently need to turn, lift and transfer patients. Even when using proper equipment and technique, they are at risk for back injuries. A CNAs job is not by any means glamorous; they bath, brush teeth, and change adult briefs. While CNAs are low in the healthcare hierarchy, a good CNA is worth their weight in gold. A good, dedicated, and experienced CNA is a valuable member of the healthcare team. They are the boots on the ground who provide gentle, high-quality essential care to some of the frailest members of our