Being a certified nursing assistant (CNA) is a rewarding career that allows you to make a positive difference in people's lives every day. In this article, we will discuss how to write an effective CNA job description and provide examples you can use as templates. A well-written job description is important to attract qualified applicants and set expectations for the role. We'll outline the key sections to include and what information to cover in each one. We'll also give two examples of fully completed CNA job descriptions from different healthcare settings. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of how to write your own customized CNA job description to recruit top talent.
How to Write a CNA Job Description
When writing a CNA job description, there are a few key things you'll want to include:
Job Duties and Responsibilities
List the main duties and responsibilities of the CNA role. This section should include things like:
- Assisting patients with daily living activities like bathing, dressing, toileting, etc.
- Monitoring patients and reporting any changes in condition to nurses
- Transporting patients as needed using wheelchairs, walkers, etc.
- Performing light housekeeping tasks in patient rooms like making beds, taking out trash
- Recording intake and output and vital signs like temperature and blood pressure
- Providing emotional support and companionship to patients
Qualifications and Requirements
Outline the minimum qualifications and requirements needed to perform the job. This typically includes:
- High school diploma or equivalent required, some healthcare training or certification preferred
- Current CNA certification in the state where you'll be working
- At least 6 months to 1 year of experience as a CNA, medical assistant, or in a similar role
- Physical ability to assist patients who may have limited mobility
- Strong communication, organizational and time management skills
- Compassionate demeanor and ability to show empathy
Additional Information
Provide any other important details about the job or your organization. You can add sections on:
- Compensation and benefits being offered
- Schedule information like hours, shifts, weekends/holidays
- Opportunities for career growth
- Your company mission and values
- How to apply including where to submit resume/application
CNA Job Description Template Examples
Here are a few examples of fully written CNA job descriptions to give you an idea of what a completed template may look like:
Nursing Home CNA
Job Title: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Job Summary: Assist nurses and other healthcare professionals in providing daily healthcare to residents. Duties include assisting with activities of daily living, vital signs, transporting residents, light cleaning, and clerical tasks.
Essential Job Functions:
- Assist residents with bathing, dressing, toileting, eating and ambulation
- Take and record vital signs including temperature, blood pressure, pulse and respiration
- Transport residents via wheelchair or with a walker to and from activities
- Change linens and sanitize resident rooms
- Observe residents and report changes in condition to nursing staff
- Provide emotional support and companionship to residents
- Assist with serving meals and cleaning up afterward
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Current CNA certification
- 6 months experience preferred
- Ability to frequently lift up to 50 lbs unassisted
- Compassionate demeanor and strong communication skills
Benefits:
- Competitive pay starting at $12/hr
- Low-cost medical, dental and vision insurance
- Paid time off accrual
- 401k retirement plan with employer match
- Tuition reimbursement for continuing education
To Apply: Email resume to careers@nursinghome.com or apply online at our website.
Hospital CNA
Job Title: Patient Care Assistant
Department: Nursing
Job Summary: Assist nurses and provide direct patient care under the supervision of RN's and LPN's. Primary responsibilities include assisting patients with daily living activities, transport, and clerical/administrative support functions.
Essential Job Functions:
- Assist patients with bathing, dressing, mobility, and hygiene
- Transport patients to and from rooms, tests, and procedures via wheelchair or stretcher
- Observe patients and report changes in condition promptly to nursing staff
- Stock supply carts and help keep unit tidy and well-organized
- Take and record vital signs, intake/output, and other measurements accurately
- Provide clerical support including answering phones and processing paperwork
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Current CNA certification
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs frequently
- Compassionate demeanor and commitment to patient care
Benefits:
- Competitive pay and shift differentials
- Low-cost medical, dental and vision insurance
- Tuition reimburse
