Restorative Aide (CNA)

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Restorative Aide (CNA) – Long-Term Care

Estherville Community Care Center: Estherville, Iowa

The Restorative Aide is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) responsible for assisting residents in maintaining or improving their physical functioning and independence. This role carries out restorative nursing programs under the direction of licensed nursing staff and therapy professionals in a long-term care setting.

• Provide restorative care to residents as outlined in individualized care plans
• Assist residents with range-of-motion (ROM) exercises , ambulation, and strengthening activities
• Support residents with transfers, positioning, and mobility training
• Encourage and promote independence in activities of daily living (ADLs)
• Apply and monitor use of adaptive equipment (walkers, splints, braces, etc.)
• Observe and report changes in residents' physical or mental condition to nursing staff
• Accurately document participation and progress in restorative programs
• Reinforce therapy techniques after physical, occupational, or speech therapy sessions
• Ensure resident safety during all activities
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment

• Current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification (State of Iowa-required)
• High school diploma or equivalent (preferred)
• Previous CNA experience in long-term care (often 6–12 months preferred)
• Restorative aide training or willingness to complete employer-provided training

• Knowledge of basic restorative nursing techniques
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to follow care plans and therapy instructions
• Patience, empathy, and a positive attitude
• Good documentation and observation skills
• Physical ability to assist with lifting, transferring, and mobility support

• Long-term care or skilled nursing facility
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting
• Direct resident interaction throughout shift

• Reports to Charge Nurse or Director of Nursing
• Works closely with Physical and Occupational Therapy staff

• Ability to lift and transfer residents (often 50+ lbs with assistance)
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
• Manual dexterity for assisting with equipment and exercises