Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Job Summary

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides evening medical support within a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF), serving youth ages 6–17.

A PRTF is a structured, therapeutic residential setting for youth who meet criteria for severe emotional disturbance (SED), meaning their mental health needs significantly impact daily functioning across home, school, and relationships. These youth require a higher level of care, with consistent support, structure, and clinical oversight.

This role serves as the first point of contact for medical needs on the unit, supporting daily health concerns while working closely with the Medical Coordinator (RN), Medical Director, and clinical team. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience alongside both nursing and psychiatric leadership within an integrated care setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Administer medications as trained and in accordance with program policies and licensing requirements
• Complete timely and accurate documentation in INSYNC, including medication administration and health observations
• Respond to routine medical concerns, including minor illness, injury, and symptom reporting
• Perform basic health monitoring, including temperature checks and general observation of physical well-being
• Provide basic wound care within scope, including cleaning, dressing, and monitoring
• Communicate changes in condition to the Medical Coordinator (RN) or appropriate clinical staff
• Follow established protocols for escalation to RN, leadership, or emergency services
• Accompany youth to urgent care or emergency room visits when indicated
• Support a clean, safe, and regulated environment, including restoring spaces following behavioral or medical incidents
• Provide occasional support with activities of daily living (ADLs) as needed; this role is primarily clinical and does not involve routine, high-assist personal care
• Operate within CNA scope of practice and follow all medical protocols, escalating concerns to the RN as appropriate
• Active CNA certification in the State of Michigan
• Certified Medication Aide (C.M.A.) training required
• Experience in medical, behavioral health, or residential settings preferred
• Experience with medication administration preferred
• Strong observation, communication, and documentation skills
• Ability to remain calm and organized in a dynamic environment
  
  

Why this Role is Different

• Direct exposure to both medical and psychiatric care in a residential setting
• Ongoing collaboration with the Medical Coordinator (RN) and Medical Director
• Focus on clinical skill-building rather than routine ADL-based care
• Ideal for those pursuing nursing, medical, or behavioral health careers
  
  

Personal Attributes Anticipated

• Mission-Driven: Demonstrates a deep commitment to the mission and values of Catholic Charities of Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton Counties, and incorporates them into daily work
• Collaborative Team Player: Thrives in a team environment, contributing positively and working effectively with others to achieve shared goals
• Solution-Oriented Problem Solver: Proactively identifies challenges and develops practical, innovative solutions to address them
• Culturally Sensitive: Demonstrates awareness and respect for the cultural diversity of both colleagues and clients, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment
• Integrity: Upholds a strong moral character, consistently doing what is right, and responsibly using time and resources to serve the organization’s mission
  
  

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• This position is on-site and is not eligible for remote work
• Attendance at occasional meetings or events outside regular business hours is required
• The role involves working with sensitive or potentially traumatic information and direct interaction with individuals or families in crisis
• Physical requirements include frequent use of hands for handling objects, tools, or controls; talking, bending, squatting, twisting, climbing, kneeling, reaching, and occasionally lifting or carrying up to 30 pounds
• Vision requirements include close-up work, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus
• The work environment may involve varying degrees of physical discomfort and occasional loud noise
• Occasional driving, potentially with Clients, during the workday may be needed for operational purposes
• Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions
  
  

Comments

This job description is intended to outline the essential functions, general supplementary tasks, and key requirements for successful performance in this role. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Additional tasks may be assigned, and management reserves the right to modify duties as needed.