According to a study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for CNAs is growing at a significant rate. This is mainly because of the retiring baby boom generation for whom certified nursing assistants are the primary caregivers. Certified nursing assistant or CNAs are said to be the ‘Face of Caring.’

The professionals in the healthcare industry are dedicated to the betterment of people’s lives. Certified nursing assistants are an important part of the healthcare industry. CNAs are focused on providing basic life care to patients in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, hospices, elderly homes and more. The role of a CNA is to interact with patients through daily contact and be the ears and eyes for registered nurses, LPNs and doctors.

It takes dedication and responsibility to be an in-home CNA. Caregiver CNAs are responsible for taking care of the elderly’s health, and tracking the vitals and progress made. They are also responsible for making sure that each and every person under their care is regularly bathed, and dressed. Other responsibilities include manning the intercom, preparing meals, sterilizing each and every piece of equipment used and taking care of all medical supplies. Due to the number of responsibilities, certified nursing assistants can be quite easily called the backbone of the healthcare industry. In some other countries such as Australia, caregivers often go an extra step and obtain a certificate by taking up a cert iv disability course so that they can assist disabled and aged persons in-home.

Assist with Basic Living Activities.

This is one of the most important responsibilities of a CNA. Basic living activities include bathing, getting dressed and using the bathroom. Many elderly people also need to be fed. These activities also include other things that the person is unable to do on their own.

Address Health Concerns

As CNAs are certified and work closely with registered nurses, they learn to identify major health concerns immediately and relay their concerns to their supervisors.

Take Vital Signs

Along with the basic living activities, CNAs are also required to take care of the patient medically. This means that they need to keep a regular check of their temperature, vitals, and blood pressure. This also helps the RN to keep an eye on the patients.

Light Housekeeping.

CNAs are responsible for taking care of housekeeping especially if they are a caregiver in the patient’s home. This responsibility often includes doing dishes, changing bed linens and more.

Are you thinking of becoming a CNA? Is your goal to become a full-fledged nurse? Check out the certified nursing assistant training program at Cambridge Business Institute. It is one of the leading CNA training schools in New York.