Life as a Nursing Assistant: A Day in the Life

The role of a nursing assistant (CNA) is at once challenging and inherently rewarding. Unlike nurses or physicians, CNA's often find themselves in more direct contact with patients, providing them with the comfort and support necessary to cope with illness or injury. As a nursing assistant, you can play a crucial role in raising a patient's spirits and influencing their recovery journey.

Day-to-Day Tasks

A typical day for a CNA will vary depending on the healthcare facility and the specific needs of the patients under their care. However, common tasks will include:

Patient Care: You will assist in feeding patients, especially those with difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), ensuring they meet their nutritional needs. Hygiene and Personal Care: Bathing and ensuring hygiene, including oral care. This can be particularly important for patients with limited mobility or other health conditions that require special attention. Infection Control: Ensuring patient rooms are clean and disinfected to prevent the spread of infections. Facility Maintenance: Changing bed linens, tidying patient rooms, and even helping to decorate for holidays and special events. Observations and Documentation: Providing regular updates on patient condition, including monitoring blood pressure, temperature, and blood glucose levels (as permitted), and documenting any changes or concerns. Description of a Daily Routine: Here, we will sketch a day in the life of a CNA working in a Veterans Affairs (VA) facility. Typically, shifts rotate among 8-4, 4-12, and 12-8. Work schedules can be demanding, but they also offer a break from routine through essential tasks and meaningful interactions. Contact with Patients: Depending on the situation, you may be tasked with helping patients get out of bed, ensuring they stay hydrated, and measuring urinary output.

Shift Work and Responsibilities

Shifts are generally chosen based on seniority, with the possibility of rotating through different positions. Other important aspects of CNA life include:

Mandatory meetings: Weekly beginning of shift meetings and ongoing continuing medical education (CME) sessions, which could include topics like the use of an AED during cardiac arrests. Transportation: Accompanying patients to hospital appointments, waiting with them, and even interfacing with physicians to document test results. Additional Assignments: Duties such as shooing, cutting hair, and even pushing wheelchair patients to activities and outings. These tasks add a layer of personal touch that can significantly impact a patient's mood and well-being.

Making a Difference

The role of a CNA goes beyond simply administering medication or carrying out routine tasks. CNA's often provide a vital emotional support to patients, especially those who are struggling or facing difficult situations. This can be a profoundly rewarding aspect of the job, giving CNA's the opportunity to hold a patient's hand during their final moments or give them the encouragement they need to fight through their illness.

Conclusion

The nursing assistant profession is both demanding and gratifying. It is an honor to be in a position to positively influence the lives of those in need. CNA's can make a significant difference in the lives of patients by providing a listening ear, a caring touch, and a compassionate presence during some of the most challenging times.

Additional Resources

If you are interested in a career as a CNA, there are numerous online resources and training programs to help you achieve your goals. Many places offer CNA training programs, and certifications are widely recognized. Consider exploring local health care facilities and community colleges for more information.