A Certified Nurse Assistant provides patient care as directed by a RN or LPN within their prescribed scope of practice. They must communicate effectively with patients, visitors, staff and physicians and demonstrate a commitment to meeting the needs of the patient population they serve.
CNAs observe and report any patient condition changes to the Primary Nurse and must complete personal care for each patient, without continual direct supervision as assigned or directed.
They can reinforce patient teaching with activities of daily living and must document pertinent patient information all the while assisting in maintaining a safe environment for patients and themselves. They are found in all areas of the hospital and can specialize in certain health fields.
These include Cardiac, Critical Care, Imaging, Medical Surgical, Rehabilitation, Education, and Women’s and Children’s Services.
Depending on where they work in the hospital, they can interact with RN, LPN, MD, Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, Speech Therapist, Medical Technicians, and other various staff members along with close interaction with patients
A high school degree as well as current certification as an Acute Care CNA 2 in the State of Oregon, and current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is required. Many community colleges in Oregon provide courses to become a CNA.
Central Oregon Community College
Columbia Gorge Community College
Linn-Benton Community College
Umpqua Community College
Oregon CNA certification
BLS certification
$24,980
Reference: United States Department of Labor