Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) (Brain Injury)

Overview

Provides direct service and daily routine and episodic daily nursing aide care in a clinically intensive program designed to meet the needs of a unique and specialized population who have been diagnosed with a brain injury and may have complex health needs. Administers medication under the Medication Administration Program (MAP) guidelines. Uses rehabilitation values, principles and techniques, including skills training to help individuals served overcome barriers to live more independently. Assists individuals served to become integrated into the community. Assists program to meet high quality standards.

Responsibilities

The essential job duties or responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to the following:

• Provides assistance with activities of daily living according to each individual's treatment plan and ISP that includes, but is not limited to, community membership, community relationships, vital signs, laundry, toileting, showering, dressing, shaving, wound care, foot care, skin checks, and passive range of motion exercises, as needed or ordered by primary care provider.
• Monitors and observes individuals served for any changes in physical, mental, or emotional status.
• Administers medication and treatments according to Medication Administration Program (MAP) and in accordance with Vinfen policies and procedures.
• Provides for the nutritional needs of individuals served.
• Transports, assists, and accompanies individuals served to medical, dental, and other appointments as directed by shift/program manager/administrator.
• Creates an environment, including individual’s room and common area, that is safe, clean, welcoming, and respectful to individuals, families, neighbors. Ensures that environment meets all safety and regulatory standards.
• Documents nursing care and services provided to individuals served as per Vinfen’s policies and procedures, including medication administration and daily shift notes; ensures that individual’s medical record and confidential file and other information is current and accurate.
• Follows Vinfen policies and procedures for incident reporting and medication errors. Ensures all paperwork meets standards of Vinfen policies and procedures and other outside agencies, as required.
• Communicates effectively and accurately with manager/administrator. Communicates and reports any changes in client’s status to manager/administrator and others as directed by manager/administrator. Communicates effectively with colleagues and Vinfen staff. Communicates effectively with clients’ families and/or guardian, as warranted.
• Works effectively and safely with assistive equipment that includes, but is not limited to, wheelchairs, Hoyer lifts, and other medical equipment. Maintains individuals served medical equipment and supplies that include, but are not limited to, wheelchairs, walkers, Hoyer lifts. Works effectively and safely with medical equipment that includes, but is not limited to, glucometers, nebulizers, oxygen.
• Provides opportunities for individuals served to engage and participate in home/program events and community events.
• Ensures that individuals served preferences and choices are encouraged and respected.
• Advocates effectively for individuals served.
• Develops and maintains effective relationships with individual served, families, and/or guardians and other significant relationships of individuals served.
• Acts as liaison and collaborates effectively with other Vinfen departments, outside agencies, and community providers.
• Attends and actively participates in staff meetings, trainings, and community meetings.
• Acts as positive role model for individuals served.
• Assists with orientation of new staff.
• Adheres to all Vinfen policies and procedures.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge and Skills

• Skills and competencies of a CNA
• Knowledge of brain injury
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with colleagues
• Ability to accurately and effectively communicate verbally
• Ability to accurately and effectively document nursing care provided
• Sensitivity to the cultural, religious, ethnic, disability, and gender issues
• Knowledge of human, legal, civil rights, community, and other resources
• Knowledge of empowerment and self-advocacy techniques
• Knowledge of teaching modalities
• Ability to balance competing priorities
• Ability to make independent judgments and decisions
• Ability to work in a professional and confidential capacity
• Knowledge of personal computer applications and equipment
• Knowledge of documentation standards requirement

Qualifications

Typical Requirements: Prior experience as a CNA, preferably with people with a brain injury.

Preferred /Required Education: A high school diploma or equivalent required.

Driving Requirements: Driving is a requirement for this position using either a Vinfen van or personal vehicle. If using a personal vehicle, you must possess and maintain adequate insurance as well as maintain a safe driving record which is subject to annual checks. A valid driver’s license must be presented at the time of employment. Incumbents must be at least 21 years of age, have maintained a valid US driver’s license for at least six months, and must be able to pass a driver’s screening background check.

Physical Effort: Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, climb as this is a very physically active position. Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds using proper lifting techniques or the use of a two-person lift. Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment such as a calculator, copier, and printer. Ability to sit, reach, climb stairs, and maneuver through narrow spaces or hallways.

Ability to assist clients with tasks of daily living.

Ability to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time as needed.

Ability to bend, reach, file, sit, stand, and move around the facility.

Ability to speak, hear, and communicate with clients, staff, and external representatives.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Required Certifications: CPR is required within two weeks of hire. First Aid is required within two weeks of hire. MAP is required within 150 days of hire. Safety Care is required within 90 days of hire. May be asked to obtain CBIS certification (Certified Brain Injury Specialist).

Required Credentials/Licenses: CNA license in Massachusetts is required.

Pay Range

USD $22.75 - USD $22.75 /Hr.

Vinfen is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.