CNA - Neuro Unit

Responsibilities

• Assists RN with daily patient care including bathing, oral hygiene, feeding, activity orders, and ambulation using therapeutic assistive devices, proper positioning, range of motion, and special transferring as indicated.
• Measures and documents blood pressures, TPRs (Temperature, Pulse, Respiration), I & O (Intake and Output), daily weights, and other patient data as requested; documents accurately in Electronic Medical Record (EMR).
• Participates in admission, transfer, and discharge processes under RN supervision, including room setup, orientation, linen removal, and management of patient belongings.
• Ensures patient call light is always within reach and answers call-lights promptly; performs purposeful rounding under RN direction and communicates observations, concerns, or patient/family needs to the RN.
• Performs patient positioning and transporting duties requiring lifting, pushing, or pulling while using proper technique and assistive devices.
• Assists with nutritional needs under RN direction, including diet review, tray setup/removal, proper positioning, and diet selection.
• Maintains skin integrity through proper repositioning and skin care; ensures special patient supplies and appliances (e.g., TED hose, sequential compression devices) are provided and maintained.
• Collects urine, stool, and sputum specimens; performs point-of-care testing using approved processes for accurate specimen labeling and identification; maintains required competency.
• Under RN direction and as determined by site/unit requirements, may remove IVs, provide post-mortem care, and perform bladder scans.
• Practices infection prevention by demonstrating hand hygiene, knowledge of sterile and aseptic procedures, proper disposal of contaminated materials, and appropriate attire for patients in isolation.
• Coordinates tests and treatments between departments for patients on nursing units; maintains knowledge of diagnostic and treatment department functions to facilitate scheduling.
• Maintains working knowledge of EHR and other computer systems for ordering supplies and equipment; processes daily patient charges through the system.
• Facilitates patient care communications using multi-line telephones, unit paging, and hospital information systems; screens incoming calls and monitors office equipment.
• Compiles necessary chart forms for admissions, transfers, discharges, and expirations; obtains medical record copies for transfers and verifies completeness and accuracy of patient demographic information.
• Establishes and maintains positive customer relations; fosters communication within the healthcare team and responds courteously to requests.
• Demonstrates knowledge and skills for age-appropriate patient care, including principles of growth and development across the lifespan.

Requirements

• Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers certification issued by the American Heart Association (AHA) must be obtained within 45 days.
• Nurse Aide certification in good standing with the State Registry where employed.

Qualifications

• Certificate of General Educational Development (GED) or High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED), or High School Graduate.
• No prior experience required.

Skills

• Basic computer skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with adaptability to interruptions and changing priorities.
• High attention to detail.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, lift, squat, bend, twist, and reach above shoulders during the work shift.
• Must be able to:
  • Lift up to 50 lbs. from floor to waist.
  • Lift up to 20 lbs. overhead.
  • Carry up to 40 lbs. a reasonable distance.
• Must be able to:
  • Push/pull with 30 lbs. of force.
  • Perform a sliding transfer of 150 lbs. with assistance.
• Will use foot pedals on carts or machines.
• Must have functional vision and hearing.
• Exposure to mechanical, electrical, chemical, and radiation hazards, as well as blood and body fluids; protective clothing required as necessary.
• Operates all necessary equipment to perform the job.