If you are considering a career as a long-term care CNA/NAC, or eventually a nurse, Lynden Healthcare Education’s training program will teach you the competencies and standards of practice that are necessary to perform as a nursing assistant in Whatcom County.
Being a certified nursing assistant is a rewarding path, filled with opportunities to make a real difference in people’s lives. But what exactly does a long-term care CNA do? Let’s take a closer look.
CNAs are the backbone of long-term care communities, providing essential support and care to residents who need assistance with daily living activities. They work closely with residents, families and other healthcare professionals to ensure the comfort, well-being and dignity of those in their care.
The role of a long-term care CNA is multifaceted, encompassing a wide range of responsibilities. These include:
Personal care. CNAs assist residents with essential personal care tasks, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting and eating. They provide respectful and compassionate care, recognizing the individual needs and preferences of each resident.
Mental health and social services. Beyond physical care, CNAs play a vital role in supporting the mental and emotional well-being of long-term care residents. They offer companionship, engage in meaningful conversations and may assist with social activities. They are often the first to notice changes in a resident’s mood or behavior and communicate these observations to the appropriate healthcare team members.
Care of cognitively impaired residents. Many residents in long-term care communities experience cognitive impairment, such as dementia. CNAs receive specialized training to understand the unique needs of these individuals and provide appropriate care, focusing on safety and promoting a sense of well-being.
Basic restorative services. CNAs may assist residents with basic restorative services, such as range-of-motion exercises, to help maintain their physical function and independence.
Resident rights and promotion of independence. CNAs are advocates for resident rights, ensuring that each resident is treated with dignity and respect. They encourage residents to participate in activities and make choices whenever possible, promoting independence and autonomy.
Communication and interpersonal skills. Effective communication is crucial for CNAs. They must be able to communicate clearly and empathetically with residents, families and other members of the healthcare team. Strong interpersonal skills are essential for building positive relationships and providing compassionate care.
Infection control and safety. CNAs play a vital role in preventing the spread of infections by following proper infection control protocols. They also ensure a safe environment for residents by adhering to safety procedures and reporting any potential hazards.
Rules and regulation knowledge. CNAs are required to have a working knowledge of the rules and regulations governing long-term care communities, ensuring that they provide care that meets the required standards.
A comprehensive CNA training program, like the one offered at Lynden Healthcare Education, will equip you with the competencies and standards of practice necessary to excel as a nursing assistant in Whatcom County. The curriculum covers all the essential skills mentioned above, aligning with the requirements outlined by the Washington State Department of Health. This training will prepare you to provide compassionate, high-quality care to residents in long-term care settings, making a positive impact on their lives.
