Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are trained professionals who provide direct patient care in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes. Though some may see this career as one that can provide a high earning potential in a short amount of time, this job is definitely not for everyone. It can be emotionally, physically, and mentally demanding, where you have to take care of others’ loved ones. Although being a CNA requires a whole lot of patience, intelligence, and kindness, it can also be very rewarding if you are truly passionate about helping others in need.
They are the Main Caregivers to Your Loved Ones
CNAs in long-term care facilities provide basic daily care for the residents. Essentially, they are the main caregivers to your loved ones, where they monitor for any changes or causes for concern in mental and physical health while preserving the dignity of your loved ones at the same time. Some common forms of care provided by a CNA include bathing, brushing teeth, brushing hair, bathing, feeding, assisting with position changes, toileting, and changing soiled sheets. Aside from that, they also track breathing and circulation patterns, skin integrity, make sure that your loved ones’ cognition and vital signs are stable, and pick up on any changes that could be dangerous if unchecked.
They Provide Companionship
When your loved one is in a long-term care facility, companionship is one of the main things that they lack. Going from living independently in your own home to living fully dependent on a CNA can be scary and disappointing for most. CNAs ensure that their sense of dignity is not damaged in any way. CNAs understand that your loved ones are individuals with a life and history, who used to be young and able-bodied with passions and intelligence. Other than providing basic and essential care, it is thus also important that CNAs maintain dignity and preserve their identities as much as possible. As your loved ones will not be able to get many visitors throughout their stay in long-term care facilities, it is up to the CNAs on duty to provide them with the companionship that they need to prevent loneliness. CNAs will talk to your loved ones and interact through stories and games to keep them engaged throughout their stay.
They Ease the Concern of Family Members
When you admit your loved one to a long-term care facility, chances are you won’t be able to visit them every day due to personal commitments such as going to work and looking after your own kids. As such, you may be constantly worrying about the welfare of your loved ones, such as if they have eaten, or if they are comfortable. CNAs look after the safety and well-being of your loved ones and ensure that family members are kept in the loop of all medical and non-medical decisions. They ease the concerned family members with individualized updates on each resident. A simple photo or video of your loved one resting with fresh sheets and washed hair can provide family members peace of mind and allow you to focus on your commitments without worry.
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