Job Description
​The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) / Hospice Aide in a hospice agency is a vital member of the interdisciplinary team, providing compassionate support to patients with terminal illnesses. Working under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), the CNA/Hospice Aide performs various personal care services to meet patients' needs, promoting comfort and enhancing quality of life for both patients and their families.
Qualifications
  • Current certification as a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the state, meeting all training requirements.
  • Successful completion of a state-established training program and competency evaluation or state licensure program that meets regulatory standards.
  • At least 18 years of age.
  • Ability to read and follow written instructions and document care given.
  • Understanding of hospice philosophy and comfort in providing specialized care to the terminally ill.
  • Satisfactory references from previous employers.
  • Self-directing with the ability to work with minimal supervision; comfortable with issues of death and dying.
  • Empathy for the needs of the ill, injured, frail, and impaired.
  • Current CPR certification.
  • Demonstrates tact, patience, and good personal hygiene.
  • Licensed driver with an automobile that is insured in accordance with organizational requirements and in good working order.
Responsibilities & Functions 
  • Personal Care Assistance:
    • Perform personal care needs based on patient assignments, attending to requests promptly.
    • Provide personal care, including baths, back rubs, oral hygiene, shampoos, and changing bed linens as assigned.
    • Assist in dressing and undressing patients as needed.
  • Health Monitoring and Documentation:
    • Take and record oral, rectal, and axillary temperatures, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure when ordered, ensuring skills competency.
    • Observe and report changes in patients' conditions, including significant changes, to the supervising nurse.
  • Emotional Support:
    • Offer companionship and emotional support to patients and their families, fostering a compassionate environment.
    • Provide respite for patients' families and caregivers when on-site, as appropriate.
  • Nutrition and Meal Preparation:
    • Plan and prepare nutritious meals, including shopping, as assigned.
    • Assist in feeding patients as needed.
  • Mobility and Safety:
    • Assist in ambulation and exercise as instructed by the primary care nurse or therapist.
    • Meet the safety needs of patients, using equipment safely and properly (e.g., foot stools, side rails, oxygen).
  • Basic Care Procedures:
    • Provide proper care and observation of patients' skin to prevent breakdown over bony prominences.
    • Offer and assist with bedpans and urinals and provide assistance with light laundry needs.
  • Therapeutic Support:
    • Perform range of motion and other simple procedures as an extensional therapy service, adhering to demonstrated skills competency.
  • Environmental Maintenance:
    • Keep patients' living areas clean and orderly as assigned, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment.
  • Collaboration and Care Coordination:
    • Work closely with the interdisciplinary team to ensure comprehensive care and effective communication.
    • Respect the patient and family environment, addressing their personal needs and preferences.
  • Professional Standards:
    • Adhere to the organization's documentation and care procedures, as well as standards of personal and professional conduct.
  • Family and Caregiver Support:
    • Be aware of interpersonal issues involving caregivers or other individuals living with the patient and address concerns sensitively.