CNA Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving healthcare industry, the need for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) is more critical than ever before.

As our population ages, the demand for dedicated and compassionate individuals who can provide patient care continues to grow.

But what exactly does a CNA job entail?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring candidate looking to understand the core duties of this role,
• A healthcare professional seeking to hire the perfect CNA,
• Or simply curious about what a career in nursing assistance involves,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable CNA job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or healthcare career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

CNA Duties and Responsibilities

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) provide direct care to patients, under the supervision of licensed practical nurses or registered nurses.

They handle a variety of tasks related to patient care and hygiene.

CNAs are primarily responsible for directly assisting patients, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Provide basic patient care under the direction of nursing staff, including bathing, feeding, and dressing patients
• Monitor and report changes in patients’ health status to nursing staff
• Assist patients with mobility needs, such as turning or moving from beds to wheelchairs
• Record patient information such as vital signs, food and fluid intake, and output, as directed by nursing staff
• Maintain a clean and healthy environment for patients by changing bed linens, cleaning rooms, and sanitizing equipment
• Help patients with their basic living activities, such as eating, dressing, or using the toilet
• Communicate with patients and their families, providing emotional support and instruction in areas like caring for infants, preparing healthy meals, living independently, or adapting to disability or illness
• Perform procedures and provide patient care as directed by a nursing supervisor

 

CNA Job Description Template

Job Brief

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

As a CNA, you will be responsible for providing assistance to our patients with their daily activities, monitoring their health condition, and reporting changes to the supervising nurse.

Candidates should be committed to improving the health and well-being of patients and have a strong understanding of patient care, medical terminologies and healthcare procedures.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist patients with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating
• Monitor vital signs including temperature, pulse, and blood pressure
• Record patient health status in medical records
• Assist nurses and other medical staff with examinations and medical procedures
• Ensure rooms are clean and tidy
• Communicate effectively with patients and their families
• Provide physical support to patients to assist them in performing daily activities
• Help in transporting patients to and from examination rooms and personal areas

 

Qualifications

• Certification as a Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Proven experience as a CNA or similar role
• Knowledge of nursing and medical procedures, and a strong understanding of healthcare regulations and safety practices
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Physical stamina to lift and transport patients
• Compassionate and patient-centered approach
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Continuous training and opportunities for career development

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Work Environment: Medical facility setting. May involve long hours of standing and direct interaction with patients.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Nurse Manager or the assigned supervising nurse.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $26,000 minimum to $38,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-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 copy of your CNA certification to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a CNA Do?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare professional who provides various types of assistance to patients under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses.

They work in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and private homes.

Some CNAs may also work in outpatient clinics or rehabilitation centers.

Typically, a CNA is responsible for aiding patients with their daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.

They also assist in monitoring vital signs like blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and respiration rate.

CNAs are also tasked with turning or repositioning bedridden patients to prevent pressure sores and maintaining patient hygiene by changing bed linens, washing and ironing laundry, and cleaning patient rooms.

They have the responsibility of observing patients’ physical, mental, and emotional conditions and reporting any change to the nursing staff.

CNAs often act as the primary point of contact between patients and healthcare professionals, delivering important information about the patients’ condition, dietary restrictions, and preferences to their supervising nurse.

Finally, CNAs also perform a crucial role in providing emotional support to patients and their families, offering comfort, and helping to create a supportive and understanding environment.

 

CNA Qualifications and Skills

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) should have the skills and qualifications that align with the healthcare field, such as:

• Excellent knowledge of medical and hospital terminology, along with familiarity with CPR and basic first aid.
• Empathy and interpersonal skills to connect with patients and their families, building trust and providing emotional support when needed.
• Physical strength and stamina to assist patients with daily activities such as moving, bathing, and feeding.
• Strong communication skills to understand patient needs, relay important information to other healthcare professionals, and explain procedures or conditions to patients and their families.
• Attention to detail to accurately record patient information, monitor and record vital signs, and identify any changes in patient health status.
• Problem-solving skills to respond quickly and effectively to emergency situations or unexpected patient needs.
• Good organizational skills to manage multiple patients, prioritize tasks, and maintain an organized and clean patient environment.
• Patience and flexibility to cope with challenging situations, such as dealing with distressed or difficult patients.

 

CNA Experience Requirements

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are typically required to complete a state-approved education program where they learn the fundamental skills of nursing, usually within a few months.

This training program equips them with the necessary practical experience to perform their duties efficiently.

Entry-level CNAs often possess less than a year of experience and the bulk of their training comes from their CNA programs where they gain hands-on experience through clinicals.

They might also gain additional experience through internships or part-time roles in healthcare facilities.

CNAs with 1-2 years of experience usually have a better understanding of patient care, medical terminology, and healthcare ethics.

They might also gain experience in specialized areas of care, such as geriatrics, pediatrics, or mental health.

Those with more than 3 years of experience have usually developed more advanced skills and may have experience in various healthcare settings like nursing homes, hospitals, or home health agencies.

They may also have some supervisory experience, which can prepare them for roles like Lead CNA or Nursing Assistant Supervisor.

Senior CNAs with over 5 years of experience are often considered experts in their field.

They have extensive patient care experience and may have additional certifications in areas like CPR, EKG, or phlebotomy.

They might be ready to take on managerial positions or roles that require training and supervision of other CNAs.

 

CNA Education and Training Requirements

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) must complete a state-approved education program which typically takes between 4 to 12 weeks.

These programs are often available through community colleges, vocational schools, and some high schools or healthcare facilities.

The coursework in a CNA program includes clinical training, basic nursing skills, anatomy and physiology, infection control, and nutrition.

Students also learn to communicate effectively with both patients and healthcare team members, as well as the legal and ethical aspects of patient care.

Every state requires CNAs to pass a competency exam upon completion of their education program.

This exam includes both a written test and a skills assessment.

The successful completion of this exam leads to certification and listing on the state’s nursing aide registry.

While a high school diploma or equivalent is not always a requirement for admission into a CNA training program, it is highly recommended.

Basic math and English competencies are essential for this role.

Continuing education is also important for CNAs, as many states require re-certification every two years which often involves continuing education courses or training.

Some CNAs may choose to advance their careers by pursuing further education to become Licensed Practical Nurses or Registered Nurses.

 

CNA Salary Expectations

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) earns an average salary of $29,640 (USD) per year.

The actual wage can differ greatly based on factors such as level of experience, specific skills, additional training, and the location of employment.

 

CNA Job Description FAQs

What skills does a CNA need?

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) require a range of both soft and hard skills.

They should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients, family members, and healthcare team.

They should possess exceptional attention to detail to monitor and record patient’s condition.

Manual dexterity and physical stamina are also vital as CNAs often assist patients with activities of daily living.

 

Do CNAs need a degree?

CNAs do not require a degree, but they must complete a state-approved education program and pass a state competency exam.

They should also be listed in the state’s registry.

Some CNAs may choose to further their education and become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Registered Nurse (RN).

 

What should you look for in a CNA resume?

A CNA applicant should have a certification from a recognized institution and be listed on the state’s registry.

Work experience, especially in a healthcare setting, is a plus.

Look for skills such as patient care, medical terminology, vital signs measurement, and emergency response.

References from previous employers or instructors can also give insights into the applicant’s work ethic and skills.

 

What qualities make a good CNA?

A good CNA is compassionate and has a genuine desire to help and care for patients.

They should have good physical stamina as the job often requires standing for long periods and lifting or moving patients.

Good CNAs should also have excellent communication skills to effectively interact with patients, their families, and the healthcare team.

They should also be able to work well under pressure and handle stressful situations calmly.

 

What is the work environment like for a CNA?

CNAs typically work in nursing homes, hospitals, and residential care facilities.

They often work under the supervision of a Registered Nurse or a Licensed Practical Nurse.

The work can be physically demanding as it involves lifting or moving patients.

CNAs may need to work in shifts, during weekends, or holidays as patient care is a round-the-clock requirement.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

Guess what?

It’s not just about providing patient care.

It’s about creating a healthier future, one patient at a time.

With our comprehensive CNA job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Go beyond with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting precise job listings or perfecting your resume.

Always remember:

Every patient care duty contributes to a healthier community.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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