What are the responsibilities and job description for the CNA – Activities Assistant position at Plainfield Health Care Center?
Job Description: CNA – Activities Assistant
Position Title: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – Activities Department
Reports To: Activities Director
Position Summary: The Activities CNA supports the Activities Department by assisting residents with participation in activity programs while providing feeding assistance during meals and snack times. This position promotes residents' physical, emotional, social, and nutritional well-being by encouraging engagement, maintaining dignity, and assisting with dining needs according to each resident's care plan.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Activities Support
Assist residents in attending and participating in scheduled activities and events.
Transport residents safely to and from activity areas.
Encourage social interaction and resident engagement.
Assist with setting up, conducting, and cleaning up activities.
Provide one-on-one visits and activities for residents unable to attend group programs.
Document resident participation and report concerns to the Activities Director.
Foster a positive, respectful, and resident-centered environment.
Feeding Assistance
Assist residents with meals, snacks, and hydration according to facility policies and care plans.
Feed residents who require assistance while promoting dignity, independence, and choice.
Encourage adequate nutritional and fluid intake.
Observe residents for swallowing difficulties, choking risks, or changes in appetite and report concerns immediately to nursing staff.
Record meal and fluid intake as assigned.
Ensure residents are properly positioned before, during, and after meals.
Assist with meal tray delivery and collection.
Resident Care & Safety
Follow all infection control, safety, and resident rights policies.
Maintain confidentiality and protect resident privacy at all times.
Communicate effectively with residents, families, nursing staff, and department personnel.
Respond appropriately to resident needs and emergencies.
Maintain a clean and organized activity and dining environment.
Qualifications
Current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification in the state of employment.
Current feeding assistant certification if required by state regulations.
Experience in long-term care, assisted living, or skilled nursing preferred.
Ability to work effectively with elderly and disabled populations.
Strong communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
Physical Requirements
Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and push/pull wheelchairs for extended periods.
Ability to assist residents with transfers as needed and according to facility policy.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
Working Conditions
Long-term care or skilled nursing environment.
Exposure to infectious diseases and bodily fluids consistent with healthcare settings.
May work weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.
Note: This position is intended to assist the Activities Department while providing feeding assistance and does not replace direct nursing care responsibilities assigned to nursing staff. The employee must perform all duties in accordance with resident care plans, facility policies, state regulations, and federal guidelines.