A Nursing Assistant provides hospital and nursing home patients with basic care and assists them with daily activities. Helps patients with dressing, washing, and feeding. May perform basic medical care under the direction of a nurse or other medical professional. These roles typically require completion of a regional agency-approved training program in order to obtain a certification before practicing.
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) plays an essential role in supporting high-quality patient care. Working under the direction of the Nurse Manager and the direct supervision of an RN or LPN, the CNA assists patients with daily living activities, comfort measures, and mobility needs while consistently promoting dignity, independence, and safety. This role is an important part of a collaborative, supportive care team, contributing to a compassionate care environment through careful observation, timely reporting of patient changes, and clear communication with nursing staff. By supporting individualized care plans and organizational standards, CNAs help ensure patients receive consistent, attentive, and patient-centered care.
Key Responsibilities:
Supports patients with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, feeding, and mobility while ensuring safety and comfort. Observes and reports changes in patients' physical or emotional condition to nursing staff promptly and accurately. Assists with restorative and mobility activities, including transfers, ambulation, and proper use of assistive devices. Documents care and related observations in accordance with facility policies and regulatory requirements. Maintains a clean, organized, and safe environment for patients, including assisting with room upkeep and infection control practices. Provides emotional support and respectful communication to patients and families, contributing to a positive long term care experience.
Licenses and Certifications Required:
Current North Dakota CNA certification required. BLS certification required within orientation period.
Educational Requirements:
Certification required. Clerical training preferred.
Experience Requirements:
Knowledge of medical terminology preferred. Nursing Assistant experience preferred.
Special Skills or Training Requirements:
Computer and keyboarding skills.
Physical Requirements:
This role requires frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and transferring residents, often involving exertion and repetitive movement. CNAs must be able to safely lift or support weights up to 50 pounds with proper technique or assistive equipment. Manual dexterity, clear vision, and effective hearing are essential for resident assistance and documentation. The position also requires the ability to respond quickly to patient needs, maintain endurance during long shifts, and manage physically demanding tasks in a fast paced care environment.
Environmental Requirements:
Work is performed in acute care setting with exposure to patient care activities, bodily fluids, cleaning agents, and occasional infectious conditions. CNAs must follow all safety, infection control, and PPE guidelines. The environment includes frequent interaction with patients, families, and interdisciplinary staff in a dynamic atmosphere with varying noise levels and interruptions. The role may require flexibility for rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays to meet patient care needs while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality at all times.
