Travel CNA

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Description

Position Overview

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare support professional who provides direct patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses (RNs and LPNs). CNAs serve as the primary caregivers for patients' daily needs, offering essential assistance with activities of daily living, basic medical tasks, and emotional support. They play a vital role in the healthcare team by spending the most time with patients and serving as their advocate.

Primary Responsibilities

Certified Nursing Assistants provide hands-on patient care, assist with personal hygiene and mobility, monitor patient conditions, and support the nursing staff in delivering quality healthcare. They work closely with patients to ensure comfort, safety, and dignity while maintaining accurate documentation of care provided.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Assist patients with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting)

Help patients with eating and drinking, including feeding assistance when necessary

Support patient mobility, transfers, and positioning to prevent complications

Change bed linens and maintain clean, comfortable patient environments

Provide skin care and basic wound care under nursing supervision

Assist with range of motion exercises and ambulation

Vital Signs and Basic Monitoring

Take and record vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, pulse, respiration)

Monitor and document patient weight and fluid intake/output

Observe and report changes in patient condition, behavior, or comfort level

Check blood glucose levels using glucometers (where certified)

Monitor and report signs of infection, injury, or adverse reactions

Ensure patient safety by implementing fall prevention measures

Patient Comfort and Support

Provide emotional support and companionship to patients and families

Respond to patient call lights and requests promptly

Assist with personal care items and comfort measures

Help patients with communication needs and family interactions

Maintain patient dignity and privacy during all care activities

Provide reassurance and encouragement during difficult times

Documentation and Communication

Accurately document all care provided and patient observations

Report significant changes in patient condition to supervising nurse

Maintain detailed records of vital signs, intake/output, and daily activities

Communicate effectively with healthcare team members during shift changes

Participate in care planning meetings and patient rounds when appropriate

Complete incident reports and other required documentation

Infection Control and Safety

Follow proper hand hygiene and infection control protocols

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriately

Maintain clean and sterile environments in patient care areas

Properly dispose of medical waste and contaminated materials

Implement safety measures to prevent patient falls and injuries

Follow facility policies for hazardous material handling

Equipment and Supply Management

Operate and maintain basic medical equipment (blood pressure cuffs, thermometers, etc.)

Ensure proper cleaning and storage of patient care equipment

Monitor and report equipment malfunctions or safety concerns

Maintain adequate supplies in patient care areas

Assist with inventory management and restocking as needed

Required Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent

Current CNA certification or diploma

Current CPR certification (Basic Life Support)

Clear background check and drug screening