subject: Purpose Of Cna And Different Job Descriptions [print this page] CNA stands for certified nursing assistantCNA stands for certified nursing assistant. Their duties are centered on assisting nurses. Their duties may include talking to patients or changing bedding in the hospital room. They work in different facilities such as those that provide long-term care and doctor offices. In smaller facilities a CNA may provide information to a physician only, but in larger facilities an RN (registered nurse) or LVN (licensed vocational nurse) may have information provided to them by the certified assistant.
A CNA may keep a watchful eye on patients in long-term care facilities such as hospice. They may check for certain problems, but don't perform duties such as administering medication to patients or performing medical procedures. They most often communicate issues and needs to an LVN or RN. However, a certified nurse is required to have CPR training and can be of assistance during emergency situations. For example, if a patient's heart stops beating or a patient has stopped breathing, a certified nurse can call a code blue. While they are waiting for a nurse or doctor, CPR is given to the patient by the certified nurse.
A CNA often knows quite a bit about a patient such as changes in their mood. They often know more about a patient than a nurse, especially in long-term health care facilities. They can provide support that will help patients become comfortable during their hospital stay. A certified nurse, however, doesn't give a diagnosis on the condition of the patient. There are different job duties that a CNA does perform such as drawing blood if they have such training. Training varies for the position since it depends on the state and job required. A certified nurse can be trained on the job for certain procedures while others need certification through examination.
A certified nursing assistant may complete additional training to become an RN or LVN since these positions offer more in salary. They are required to continue education to retain their certified status. Other duties a CNA may perform include taking blood pressure, pulse and temperature. They may help patients move around if they need help walking, using the restroom or sitting up in bed. Housekeeping duties is another way to describe duties assumed by a certified nurse. One of their most important duties is to help other medical professionals in the facility.
Most certified assistants work close with patients; this is why they often know more about them than a nurse. They may help them eat by spoon-feeding, help a patient brush their teeth and sponge bath. A CNA does have a choice in where they want to work. Some work in private facilities or healthcare companies that provide assistants to patients who live at home, also known as a home health aide. They can provide companionship to a patient who is elderly or ill by watching television or playing a game. This helps the patient improve their mood and quality of life.
