Nurse Aide in Training Class

Certified Nurse Aide Training Program

The primary role is to learn and practice the essential skills required to provide basic care to patients and residents under the direct supervision of a Certified Nurse Aide.

Activities are divided into two main areas: Learning in the Classroom, and Practicing in a Clinical Setting.

Learning in the Classroom

Before working with real patients, trainees learn the foundational knowledge in a classroom or lab setting. This includes:

• Learning basic terms for body parts, conditions, and procedures.
• Understanding how the body works, especially systems they will frequently care for.
• Mastering vital practices like proper hand hygiene, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and preventing the spread of infections.
• Learning about confidentiality, privacy, dignity, and the legal rights of patients.
• Training on how to prevent falls, perform CPR, use a fire extinguisher, and respond to other emergencies.
• Learning how to interact effectively with patients, families, and the healthcare team.

Practicing in a Clinical Setting (Hands-On Training)

This is the most hands-on part of the training, where knowledge is applied in a real-world environment like a nursing home. All tasks are performed under strict supervision. Duties include:

Direct Patient Care:

• Assisting patients with bathing, grooming, oral care, dressing, and toileting.
• Helping patients turn in bed, transfer to chairs or wheelchairs, and walk. They practice using gait belts and other safety devices.
• Feeding patients who need help, assisting with setting up meal trays, and documenting food and fluid intake.
• Practicing how to accurately measure and record temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and blood pressure.
• Training on skills like giving bed baths, making occupied and unoccupied beds, and applying anti-embolism stockings.

Supportive Tasks:

• Learning to be the "eyes and ears" for the nurse by observing and reporting any changes in a patient's condition (e.g., skin redness, mood changes, appetite).
• Practicing how to accurately and clearly chart care provided and patient status in accordance with facility policy.
• Applying their classroom knowledge by consistently using proper handwashing and glove techniques.
• Interacting with patients compassionately, providing emotional support, and responding to call lights.

Compensation Details:

TNAs completing the class will be paid/hired while they complete their Certification. Their exam fees will be paid for by the facility.

For more information about the Certification process through Bluebonnet Rehab at Ennis, please contact Sidney Patison, Human Resources Manager.