What Makes a Great CNA?

Did you know that the career of a CNA is one of the fastest-growing occupations in the U.S. today? In fact, according to statistics last provided by the U.S. Department of Labor (in 2019), overall employment for nurse aides will likely increase at a rate of 8 percent from 2019 to 2029! However, even with this growing demand, if you truly want to succeed in your career, you should strive to be the best CNA you can be. Just how can you do this? Read on to find out.

Be Hardworking and Dependable

First of all, the work of a CNA can be quite strenuous at times. As such, if you want to be a great nurse aide, you need to be both hardworking and dependable. Working as a nurse aide requires a positive attitude and a lot of dedication. Your patients will be depending on you each day to provide them with assistance that is vital to their daily physical and emotional needs.

Prove You Are Trustworthy

Due to the nature of the job, if you want to become a CNA, it is essential that your employer can trust you. Not only will you be required to care for a variety of patients who are in delicate conditions, but you will also have access to important medical records that contain private health information and identification data. As a result, you must comprehend the legal and ethical importance of confidentiality and trust.

Be Caring and Compassionate

As a CNA, you will be working with people who are quite vulnerable and experiencing a variety of emotions. While some patients may be irritable or impatient, others may be fearful or depressed. When dealing with such patients, you must be compassionate, caring and able to remain patient no matter what the conditions may be. It is also best if you have the ability to calm patients and ease their fears and worries.

Strive for Excellent Communication Skills

This quality goes hand in hand with being caring and compassionate. As you care for your patients on a daily basis, you will need to talk to them. Of course, excellent communication skills can help you with this aspect of your job. Good communication skills will also help you interact with such people as your supervisors, coworkers, and the family members of your patients.

Stay in Top Physical Condition

The job description for CNAs requires for them to be on their feet for most of the time that they spend at work. Additionally, nurse aides must be able to lift and move heavy patients, boxes, and medical equipment. With that said, it is in your best interest to stay in top physical condition if you wish to obtain employment and succeed as a certified nurse aide.

Conclusion

There are many qualities that make a great CAN, including a caring personality, compassion, excellent communication skills, trustworthiness, and dependability.