CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT JOB DESCRIPTION

DEFINITION:

The CNA, under the supervision of a Skilled Nurse, gives care to patients in the home setting. This includes direct and indirect care. Responsibilities include: personal care and housekeeping related to the patient and his/ her needs. The functions performed require judgement based upon established policies of the FirstLantic.

LINE OF AUTHORITY:

• Accountable to the Skilled Nurse
• Works closely with the patient and family members

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Successful completion of at least 40 hours classroom and practical training through a vocational school, licensed home health agency or hospital along with the curriculum.
• 12 Hours of In-Service training per calendar year.
• Adequate health status to perform described duties.
• Ability to safely handle body fluids and hazardous waste products.
• Must have ability to effectively communicate with patients and staff.
• Must meet personnel qualifications.
• Must have at least six (6) months experience in a home health capacity.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Provides direct and indirect personal care to the patient in the home setting under direction of a registered nurse.
• Utilizes safety measures in provision of care.
• Maintains effective communication with supervisor regarding patient’s condition.
• Follows written assignment to deliver patient services developed by an appropriate health care professional. (RN, PT, ST)
• Documents and submits accurate accounts of services provided.
• Observes the patient for changes in condition and behavior and reports to supervisor.
• Removes patient’s medication container from the storage area; prepares necessary items, i.e. juice, water, cups, spoons, etc.; to assist the patient.
• Reading and recording temperature, pulse and respiration.
• Participates in case conferences.
• Maintains confidentiality of all patient and agency matters.
• Adheres to all agency policies.
• Recognize emergencies and have knowledge of emergency procedures.
• Demonstrates knowledge regarding basic infection control procedures.
• Adheres to the role of the Home Health Aide in the home setting as defined in Florida statute for home health agencies. (Reference FAC, Chapter 59A-8.0095, Section 5)

The Home Health Aide (H.H.A.) or Certified Nurse Assistant (C.N.A.) shall not change sterile dressings, irrigate body cavities such as giving an enema, irrigate a colostomy or wound, perform a gastric irrigation or enteral feeding, catherize a patient, administer medication, apply heat by any method, care for a tracheotomy tube, nor provide any personal health service which has not been included in the plan of care.