Description

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – Senior Care / Geripsych Unit

Position Summary

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides direct patient care and support services under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. This position supports the overall care of geriatric psychiatric patients by assisting with daily living activities, maintaining patient safety, monitoring behavior, and promoting dignity and comfort in accordance with hospital policies and regulatory requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide basic patient care including bathing, grooming, feeding, toileting, and mobility assistance

• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) while encouraging independence when possible

• Support therapeutic interventions for geriatric psychiatric patients as directed by nursing staff

• Observe and report changes in patient condition, behaviour, or safety concerns promptly to licensed staff

• Take and record vital signs, intake/output, weight, and other assigned observations accurately

• Assist with patient positioning, transfers, and ambulation, using appropriate safety techniques

• Provide one-to-one observation when required for patient safety (suicidal, homicidal, or high-risk patients)

• Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly environment by assisting with room care and infection control practices

• Engage patients respectfully, supporting therapeutic communication and unit routines

• Assist with admission, transfer, and discharge processes

• Document all care provided in the electronic medical record in a timely and accurate manner

• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary care team to ensure quality patient care delivery

• Participate in ongoing training and education as required for hospital and regulatory compliance

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Current certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the State of Arkansas

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required

• Prior experience in geriatric, psychiatric, or hospital care preferred but not required

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with ability to manage challenging behaviours in a calm, professional manner

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds routinely

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching required

• Ability to respond quickly to patient safety needs in a fast-paced environment

Requirements

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Current certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the State of Arkansas

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required

• Prior experience in geriatric, psychiatric, or hospital care preferred but not required

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with ability to manage challenging behaviors in a calm, professional manner

Summary

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides direct patient care and support services under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. This position supports the overall care of geriatric psychiatric patients by assisting with daily living activities, maintaining patient safety, monitoring behavior, and promoting dignity and comfort in accordance with hospital policies and regulatory requirements.