If you are interested in becoming a certified nursing assistant in Whatcom County, you might be wondering what kind of person you need to be to succeed in this career.
Being a CNA can be rewarding — but also challenging and demanding. Therefore, it can help to have certain personality traits that can help you cope with the stress and responsibilities of the job.
As you probably know, CNAs are health care professionals who provide basic care and assistance to patients in various settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes and home health agencies. CNAs perform such tasks as taking vital signs, helping patients with daily activities, and reporting any changes in their condition, among other tasks.
Here are some of the most important personality traits for a CNA:
Compassion: CNAs must have a genuine concern and empathy for the people they care for. They should show kindness and respect to patients who may be in pain, suffering or vulnerable. Compassion means being able to listen to patients’ needs and preferences, providing them with needed comfort and support and treating them with dignity.
Patience: It can take a lot of patience to help people with a good attitude day in and day out. CNAs must be able to handle potentially emotional situations while maintaining a high level of professionalism. Patience also means being able to adapt to different situations and personalities and being flexible and tolerant of changes.
Communication: CNAs must have good communication skills, both verbal and nonverbal. They should be able to communicate clearly and effectively with patients, families and other team members. CNAs also must be able to explain procedures, instructions and information, when needed, in a way that is simple and understandable. They also need to be able to listen actively and attentively and respond appropriately to feedback and questions from supervisors, colleagues, patients and family members.
Reliable: CNAs must be reliable and dependable. They must be able to show up on time, follow directions and complete their tasks efficiently and accurately. They also should be able to work independently and as part of a team, taking initiative when needed. Being reliable includes being honest, trustworthy and accountable for one’s actions and decisions.
Physical stamina: CNAs must have good physical endurance. After all, CNA jobs can involve many hours spent standing, walking and caring for patients. These are some of the most important personality traits for a CNA. Of course, there are other traits that are beneficial and desirable for CNAs. However, if you have these five traits, you are likely to enjoy your work as a CNA and make a positive difference in the lives of all those around you. To get started on your path to becoming a certified nursing assistant, contact us at Lynden Healthcare Education or enroll online for an upcoming class.
