What are the responsibilities and job description for the CNA position at MCH - Morris County Hospital?
MCH is accepting applications for a night shift C N A (certified nursing assistant) to work night shifts (5pm to 5am). This full-time benefits eligible position will work three 12-hour shifts per week.
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) plays a vital role in delivering essential patient care and supporting the healthcare team in a rural or underserved hospital setting. The responsibilities and duties of a CNA in such a facility are focused on providing basic care to patients, monitoring their conditions, and ensuring their comfort.
Key Responsibilities:
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Patient Care:
- Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and feeding.
- Help patients with mobility, including transferring them from beds to chairs, and assisting with walking.
- Provide basic wound care under the supervision of a nurse, including dressing changes and monitoring healing.
- Monitor patients for changes in their condition, including vital signs, skin integrity, and emotional well-being.
- Report changes in patient status or new concerns to the nursing staff.
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Vital Signs Monitoring:
- Measure and record patients' vital signs such as temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and respiration rate.
- Assist in collecting specimens for lab tests (e.g., urine, stool, and blood samples).
- Patient Observation and Documentation:
- Record and report observations, such as changes in patient behavior, physical condition, or mental health.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the patient’s medical records.
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Assistance with Medical Equipment:
- Assist with the use of medical equipment, such as oxygen, feeding tubes, and basic patient monitoring devices.
- Ensure proper sanitation and maintenance of equipment.
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Patient Comfort and Safety:
- Ensure patients are comfortable and secure in their beds, including adjusting pillows, linens, and positioning.
- Respond to patient call lights and ensure their needs are met promptly.
- Assist in maintaining a clean and safe patient environment, including adhering to infection control protocols.
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Collaboration with Healthcare Team:
- Work closely with nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated and effective patient care.
- Assist with patient transportation within the hospital.
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Emergency Response:
- Assist in emergency situations under the direction of nursing staff or physicians, including CPR and basic life support as needed.
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Support for Family and Visitors:
- Provide compassionate support and communication to patients' families and visitors, ensuring they understand care plans and the patient’s condition.
- Uphold confidentiality and respect for patient privacy at all times.
Qualifications:
- Certification: Must be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the state of employment, with a current and valid CNA license.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent; completion of a state-approved CNA program.
- Experience: Previous experience as a CNA is preferred, especially in a healthcare or hospital setting. Experience in a Critical Access Hospital is a plus.
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Skills:
- Basic clinical knowledge and understanding of healthcare terminology.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with diverse patient needs.
- Familiarity with safety protocols and infection control practices.
- Ability to lift and move patients safely.
- Comfort with rural healthcare settings and the unique challenges they present.
Working Conditions:
- The CNA will be required to work in a hospital setting, which may include exposure to contagious diseases and other health hazards.
- Shift work may include nights, weekends, and holidays.
- May be required to work in various departments (e.g., emergency, inpatient, long-term care).
- The hospital environment may be smaller and more resource-constrained compared to larger healthcare facilities, which may require CNAs to take on a broader range of responsibilities.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk, and move patients for extended periods.
- Ability to lift patients or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Visual and auditory acuity for patient monitoring.
- Ability to perform repetitive tasks without strain.