Assisted Living CNA Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the healthcare industry, the role of Assisted Living Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) is increasingly vital.

As our population ages, the demand for compassionate, skilled professionals to provide assistance with daily living tasks for our seniors is growing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Assisted Living CNA?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of being an Assisted Living CNA,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Assisted Living CNA job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Assisted Living CNA Duties and Responsibilities

Assisted Living Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) play a crucial role in providing care and support to elderly residents who require assistance with daily living activities.

They work closely with the healthcare team to ensure residents’ needs are met and their wellbeing is prioritized.

Here are some of their key duties and responsibilities:

• Assist residents with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and eating
• Monitor and record patient’s vital signs including temperature, pulse, respiration and blood pressure
• Report changes in residents’ health status to nursing or medical staff
• Help residents move in and out of beds, chairs, and wheelchairs
• Communicate with residents’ families about their health status, needs and concerns
• Administer prescribed medications under the supervision of a registered nurse or doctor
• Maintain a clean and healthy environment for residents
• Participate in recreational activities with residents to improve their physical and mental health
• Provide emotional support to residents and their families
• Follow all healthcare regulations and standards to ensure safety and quality care

 

Assisted Living CNA Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Assisted Living Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to join our team.

You will be responsible for providing high-quality care to our residents in accordance with their individual care plans.

Your duties will include assisting with daily living activities, administering medication, monitoring vital signs, and reporting changes in health status to the nursing staff.

The ideal candidate has excellent interpersonal skills, is patient and reliable, and has a genuine interest in working with the elderly.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist residents with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating
• Help residents with mobility and physical therapy exercises
• Administer medication as prescribed by the physician
• Monitor residents’ vital signs and report any changes to nursing staff
• Document residents’ health status and care provided in their medical records
• Provide emotional support and companionship to residents
• Respond promptly to residents’ call signals
• Ensure residents’ rooms are kept clean and tidy
• Participate in resident assessments and care plan meetings

 

Qualifications

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license required
• Proven experience as a CNA in an assisted living or similar setting
• Knowledge of basic patient care and hygiene standards
• Ability to lift and move residents as needed
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Patient and compassionate disposition
• First Aid and CPR certification
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities
• Employee assistance program

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Assisted Living Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Work Environment: Assisted living facility. Requires standing and walking for extended periods and lifting of residents as needed.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Nursing or designated nursing staff.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $35,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time or part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Assisted Living CNA Do?

An Assisted Living Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) primarily works in residential facilities for the elderly or disabled.

Their main role is to provide basic care to patients, as well as assist them in daily activities they might have trouble with due to age or disability, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and taking medication.

Assisted Living CNAs provide emotional support to the elderly and disabled, and often form close relationships with the residents in their care.

They may also communicate with family members and healthcare professionals about the patient’s health status and progress.

They monitor the vital signs of their patients, and report changes in health conditions to registered nurses or doctors.

Assisted Living CNAs also help in maintaining a safe and clean environment for the residents.

In some cases, CNAs may be required to assist with basic medical procedures, such as administering medication, wound care, or assisting with mobility aids.

They are a vital part of the healthcare team, ensuring that the residents of assisted living facilities receive the best possible care.

 

Assisted Living CNA Qualifications and Skills

An Assisted Living Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) should have a specific set of skills and qualifications that align with the responsibilities of their role, such as:

• Excellent patient care skills to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of residents, including assisting with activities of daily living such as bathing, feeding, and dressing.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build positive relationships with residents, and to communicate effectively with their families and other healthcare providers.
• Understanding of medical terminology and ability to follow written and verbal instructions from doctors and nurses to provide appropriate care.
• Physical stamina and agility to assist in moving and lifting patients, and to perform tasks such as changing linens and cleaning rooms.
• Compassion and patience to provide care for elderly residents who may be experiencing physical or cognitive difficulties.
• Ability to work as part of a team, collaborating effectively with other healthcare professionals to deliver the best possible care.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations to maintain a safe environment for residents.
• Certification as a nursing assistant, as well as first aid and CPR certifications, to provide emergency care if necessary.

 

Assisted Living CNA Experience Requirements

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in assisted living facilities are usually required to have a high school diploma or GED, along with a state certification in nursing assistance.

This certification involves a certain amount of clinical training and supervised experience, which makes them well-suited to handle the day-to-day tasks in this role.

Prior experience in a healthcare facility such as a hospital or nursing home can be beneficial.

This is because such environments can provide the kind of practical, hands-on experience that is crucial for this kind of role.

For CNAs with 1 to 2 years of experience, they may have developed their skills in patient care, patient monitoring, and medical terminology, often through working in a healthcare facility.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often show a higher level of comfort with more complex tasks such as assisting with medical procedures, administering medication under supervision, or handling emergency situations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership or supervisory experience and may be well-suited for roles such as Lead CNA or CNA Supervisor.

This experience can also be useful in handling administrative tasks, staff training, or coordinating with other healthcare professionals.

 

Assisted Living CNA Education and Training Requirements

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in assisted living must complete a state-approved CNA training program, typically offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and some high schools.

The programs cover basic nursing principles and procedures, such as taking vital signs, preventing infection, and understanding patient rights.

Upon completion of the training program, prospective CNAs are required to pass a state competency examination to earn their certification.

Most states require CNAs to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent education.

In addition to the initial certification, CNAs must complete continuing education units (CEUs) each year to maintain their certification.

Some CNAs may also choose to pursue specialized training in geriatrics or palliative care to better serve their assisted living patients.

Experience in a healthcare setting and proficiency in English, both written and spoken, are also often required.

 

Assisted Living CNA Salary Expectations

An Assisted Living Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) can expect to earn an average salary of $28,454 (USD) per year.

This amount can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, specialized training, location, and the specific assisted living facility that provides employment.

 

Assisted Living CNA Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Assisted Living CNA need?

An Assisted Living CNA should have strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with residents, their families, and the healthcare team.

They should have the physical stamina for standing, walking, and lifting for extended periods.

They should also possess attention to detail, patience, and empathy.

Additionally, they should have strong problem-solving skills to address the daily needs and unexpected situations of the residents.

 

What qualifications does an Assisted Living CNA require?

An Assisted Living CNA must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

They must also complete a state-approved education program and pass their state’s competency exam to become certified.

Some states may require additional certifications in areas like CPR and first aid.

In addition to these, they might need to pass a background check and have some on-the-job training.

 

What should you look for in an Assisted Living CNA resume?

In addition to a CNA certification, look for experience in a healthcare setting or with elder care specifically.

The resume should also highlight key skills like patient care, communication, and knowledge of medical terminologies.

It would be beneficial if the resume includes any additional certification like CPR or First Aid.

Remember that the best candidates will also demonstrate empathy and patience.

 

What are the day-to-day duties of an Assisted Living CNA?

An Assisted Living CNA typically helps residents with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or eating.

They monitor vital signs, report changes in a resident’s condition, and assist with medical procedures.

They also provide emotional support, engage in recreational activities with residents, and ensure a clean and safe living environment.

 

What qualities make a good Assisted Living CNA?

A good Assisted Living CNA is compassionate, patient, and understanding, which helps them provide quality care to residents.

They’re able to handle stress, physically demanding tasks, and have excellent communication skills to liaise between residents and the rest of the medical team.

They’re also highly observant, able to notice changes in a resident’s health or behavior.

 

Is it difficult to hire Assisted Living CNAs?

Hiring can be a challenge due to the high demands of the job and the industry’s high turnover rate.

However, offering competitive wages, a supportive work environment, continuous training opportunities, and career progression can attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have unveiled the essential details of being an Assisted Living CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant).

But guess what?

It’s not just about providing physical assistance.

It’s about nurturing the well-being of those who need care, one interaction at a time.

With our go-to Assisted Living CNA job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to move forward.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next tool for creating precision-crafted job listings or refining your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every interaction with your patients is a part of their larger care journey.

Let’s provide that care. Together.

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