Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

About the role

This position provides medical or therapeutic care under the direction of nursing or clinical staff. The CNA works under the direction of the charge nurse or supervisor to support patient well-being in a positive, supportive and structured environment, with patient safety as a top priority.

Key responsibilities

• Carry out complete patient observation rounds, sometimes every 15 minutes, and provide 1:1 patient care when assigned
• Keep patient rooms clean and uncluttered, and assist with transferring, lifting, raising or turning patients
• Take vital signs, height and weight as assigned and document them accurately
• Identify patients and visitors promptly, respond to requests quickly and engage patients in activities that support their treatment goals
• Respond to distressed patients calmly, use de-escalation techniques, and assist with seclusion and restraints when necessary
• Monitor behavioural improvements, report changes to the team and significant changes to the nurse immediately
• Reinforce skills learned from nurses, physicians and therapists, and support comfort, dignity and privacy
• Perform CNA duties such as feeding, bathing, dressing, grooming, moving patients and changing linens; arrange or coordinate patient transport
• Clean the unit as assigned, including equipment such as beds, IV poles and wheelchairs
• Document clinical information accurately and on time, follow policies and procedures, and resolve patient complaints

Required profile

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Certification as a nursing assistant according to state requirements
• Current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification or license per state requirements
• Previous experience in a behavioural health setting and familiarity with the facility's population preferred
• Positive, empathetic and professional attitude, clear communication with patients, families and the care team

Required skills

• CPR certification and de-escalation/restraint certification (training available after hire)
• First aid may be required depending on state or facility