CNA

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Required Skills & Experience

High school diploma or equivalent is mandatory

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification

Obtain State of Connecticut Medication Certification within 60 days of hire and thereafter maintain active certification is mandatory

Basic computer skills is strongly preferred

Minimum of one year of related experience working with elderly, mentally or physically challenged individuals is required

Speak and read English clearly for effective communication with residents, staff, family members, and others is mandatory

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Foundational knowledge of geriatrics, and/or psychiatric disorders

Ability to maintain positive relationships with residents, employees, families, and the public, with tact, empathy, and patience

Verbal de-escalation and emotional resilience skills

Ability to stay steady and clear-headed during sudden medical or behavioral emergencies remain calm under pressure

Ability to clearly communicate and provide important updates to management and peers

Ability to assist with dressing, bathing, and eating

Job Description

The certified nursing assistant (CNA) provides direct resident care and assistance with activities of daily living in a safe, compassionate, and resident-centered environment. Certified Medication Assistant administers medication in accordance with Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) regulations under the delegation of the RN/Nurse Manager and the day-to-day clinical direction of the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The CNA promptly reports changes in resident conditions and assists in maintaining a safe, organized home for residents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Responsibilities

Resident Care

Assist residents as necessary with activities of daily living, taking care to treat each resident with respect and understanding

Help residents with showers, when necessary or requested, and notify the Nurse or Administrator if a resident refuses to shower

Ensure all residents are present during scheduled mealtimes

Medication Support

Administer medications under regulations set by Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) and under the delegation of the of the Registered Nurse Manager and the day-to-day direction of the LPN

Follow physician orders and care instructions as directed by the RN/Nurse Manager and LPN

Obtain and document vital signs as assigned and report abnormal findings immediately to the LPN or RN/Nurse Manager monthly and as needed

Documentation

Document resident care provided and accurately record observations in the daily logbook or designated clinical record

Immediately report changes in a resident condition, unusual observations, medication concerns, falls, or behavioral changes to the LPN or RN/Nurse Manager

Notify the LPN, RN/Nurse Manager, or designated on-call clinical staff immediately of significant changes in resident conditions. Document observations according to policy

Communicate all pertinent information to the oncoming shift

Facility Maintenance

Maintain tidiness of beds daily, changing bed linens weekly or as needed when soiled

Ensure the orderliness of the facility during non-administrative hours

Perform laundry duties, including washing, drying, folding, and returning residents' clothes to their rooms

New Admissions Support

Assist with resident orientation and room setup as directed by LPN or RN/Nurse Manager

Help new residents navigate the facility (e.g., dining room, activity room)

Safety and Emergency Protocols/Other

Report incidents, accidents, safety concerns, or resident injuries immediately to the LPN or RN/Nurse Manager

Be knowledgeable and stay informed of all emergency evacuation procedures and fire regulations

May be required to perform other related duties as required and/or assigned