Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Duties: Responsibilities & Care

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) provide basic care to patients in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. Their duties may include:

Basic patient care:

- Assisting patients with activities of daily living, such as eating, bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom

- Monitoring vital signs, such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse

- Changing bed linens and providing personal hygiene care

- Helping patients maintain their mobility, including walking and transferring to wheelchairs

Communication and documentation:

- Communicating with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals about the patient's condition and needs

- Documenting the patient's condition and care provided in the patient's medical record

Infection control:

- Following infection control procedures to prevent the spread of infection, such as washing hands frequently and wearing gloves and gowns

Emergency response:

- Assisting with emergency procedures, such as CPR and AED use

Mental health and socialization:

- Providing emotional support and companionship to patients

- Encouraging patients to participate in social activities

- Supporting spiritual, psychological, and psychosocial concerns for patients and caregivers to the extent delegated by the supervising professional

It's important to note that the exact duties of a CNA may vary depending on the healthcare setting and state regulations. In some states, CNAs may be allowed to perform additional tasks, such as administering medications, under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN).