Hospice Certified Nursing Assistant

The Hospice Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides essential care and support to terminally ill patients in a hospice setting, working under the supervision of a registered nurse. The CNA plays a crucial role in assisting patients with daily living activities, monitoring their vital signs, and reporting any changes to the nursing team to ensure the highest quality of life during their end-of-life journey.

Reports to: Hospice Nurse Supervisor

Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

• Assist patients with personal hygiene, including bathing, grooming, and dressing.
• Help with mobility and transfers, ensuring the patient’s safety and comfort.
• Monitor vital signs and report any changes to the supervising nurse.
• Collaborate with the healthcare team to provide compassionate care according to the patient's care plan.
• Provide emotional support and companionship to patients and their families.
• Assist with meal preparation and feeding, adhering to dietary restrictions and individual preferences.
• Maintain a clean and safe environment for patients, following infection control protocols.
• Accurately document care provided and report any significant changes in the patient's condition, including noting exact medication and care provided with the date and time for insurance purposes and appropriate quality of care to patients.
• Adhere to all safety protocols, regulatory guidelines, and agency policies and procedures.
• Participate in team meetings and ongoing training to enhance knowledge and skills in hospice care.

Schedule:

• Day Shift
• Monday-Friday, 8:30-16:30

Job Qualifications:

• Valid Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license in the state in Kansas and Missouri. 
• Previous experience in hospice or end-of-life care is preferred.
• Home care experience preferred but not required.
• Strong clinical skills and the ability to perform a range of nursing tasks with sensitivity and compassion.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with patients, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to build rapport with patients through a compassionate and caring demeanor.
• Emotional resilience and the ability to cope with the unique challenges of hospice care.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and transfer patients, with or without assistance, up to 50lbs.
• Capability to perform physical tasks such as bending, standing, walking, and climbing stairs for extended periods. 
• Strength to handle medical equipment and assist patients with mobility and physical activities. 
• Visual acuity and dexterity for performing tasks such as reading medical records, administering injections, and handling medical instruments. 
• Ability to respond swiftly and efficiently to emergency situations.
• Capacity to work in various home environments which may include navigating stairs, tight spaces, or uneven surfaces. 
• Maintain regular attendance and timeliness as set forth within the work schedule designated by the department supervisor/manager.
• Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations. 
• The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.