Thinking of starting or expanding your CNA career in home health?
Home health CNAs are an integral part of the healthcare industry. CNAs are responsible for assisting with a range of home care services, including companion care and private duty nursing care.
A CNA works under a registered nurse and adheres to the core values of confidentiality, professionalism, and accountability. This means that they are dedicated to providing the highest level of care possible while respecting the rights of patients and their families.
Roles of Certified Nursing Assistants
Home health CNAs perform various roles that are important to the well-being of patients. Here are the common roles of a home health CNA.
Assisting patients with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
As a home health CNA, you’re a part of your clients’ everyday lives. The activities of daily living include grooming, dressing, feeding, bathing, toileting, and moving.
Monitoring vital signs.
CNAs are often in charge of monitoring patients’ vital signs, such as their blood pressure, temperature, and pulse rate. They record these readings in the patient’s chart, which can be used to identify changes that may require medical attention.
Communication.
Communication is key, especially when it comes to CNA careers. CNAs are often in charge of communicating with other healthcare providers and family members. They may have to notify a doctor if a patient’s condition changes or if they notice any problems with their care.
Family members may also rely on CNAs to keep them updated on their loved one’s conditions. They may have to explain medical terms and procedures, so CNAs should be able to communicate clearly and effectively.
Housekeeping.
Housekeeping roles include keeping the patient’s room clean and tidy, shopping for groceries, cooking, cleaning up after meals, and performing other household tasks.
Managing patient equipment.
CNAs may also be required to manage patients’ equipment, such as oxygen machines, feeding tubes, portable toilets, wheelchairs, and lift chairs. They must ensure these devices are working properly and if they need to be replaced or repaired.
Maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
Depending on the patient’s condition, CNAs may need to perform tasks such as changing bedpans, soiled sheets, catheters, and cleaning spills. Sanitizing is also a critical part of the job. CNAs must be aware of any infections their patients may have and take steps to prevent the spread of germs.
Assisting with medical procedures.
Depending on location, a CNA may be asked to help with certain medical procedures, such as wound dressing, drawing blood, and administering injections.
Empower Your CNA Career!
Home health CNAs play an important role in the lives of their patients and families. They’re truly our healthcare heroes! While their tasks are varied, they all tie back to the same mission: providing care for people who need it most.
If you’re already working in this field, remember: no matter how much experience or training you have, it’s never too late to learn more or improve upon what you already know.
If you’re looking for a CNA career that allows you to provide comfort and support to others while learning new techniques and skills, this could be your dream job. At Home Health Companions, we’re looking for dedicated and compassionate people who want to make a difference in the lives of others. If you’re interested in joining our team, please apply today!