Long-Term Care Facility CNA Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the expanding healthcare industry, the need for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in long-term care facilities has become increasingly crucial.

As the aging population grows, so does the call for dedicated individuals who can provide competent and compassionate care for our seniors in long-term care facilities.

But what does it mean to be a CNA in a long-term care facility?

Whether you are:

• An individual considering this rewarding career path,
• A hiring manager aiming to find the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the responsibilities of a CNA in long-term care,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable CNA job description template for long-term care facilities, designed for easy posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Long-Term Care Facility CNA Duties and Responsibilities

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in a long-term care facility plays a crucial role in the healthcare team.

They provide direct patient care to elderly or disabled individuals who are unable to perform daily tasks independently.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assist residents with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and toileting
• Monitor and record patients’ vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate
• Provide basic care to patients including changing bed linens, cleaning rooms, and helping with medical equipment
• Assist with mobility, including moving patients to and from bed and wheelchairs
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals to ensure the delivery of high-quality care
• Report changes in patient conditions to a registered nurse or physician
• Perform basic nursing procedures under supervision, such as administering medications and wound care
• Participate in recreational activities with patients to improve their mental health and well-being
• Maintain patient privacy and confidentiality according to legal and professional standards

 

Long-Term Care Facility CNA Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to join our long-term care facility team.

The CNA will be responsible for providing high-quality care to our residents, assisting them with daily living activities, monitoring their health, and ensuring their comfort.

The ideal candidate has a heart for serving the elderly or chronically ill, possesses excellent communication skills, and has the physical stamina to fulfill the demands of the job.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist residents with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and meal assistance.
• Monitor vital signs and health condition of residents, reporting any changes to nursing staff.
• Provide emotional and psychological support to residents and their families.
• Document and maintain accurate records of resident care, condition, and progress.
• Respond to resident call signals promptly and professionally.
• Ensure resident rooms are clean, organized, and free of safety hazards.
• Participate in recreational activities with residents, if applicable.

 

Qualifications

• Valid state certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
• Proven work experience as a CNA, preferably in a long-term care facility.
• Knowledge of basic patient care and hygiene standards.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Physical stamina and the ability to lift or move residents as needed.
• Availability to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• High school diploma or equivalent.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement or continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Long-Term Care Facility CNA
• Work Environment: Long-term care facility. This role requires patient handling and potential exposure to infectious diseases.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Charge Nurse or Nurse Manager.
• 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
• 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 a Long-Term Care Facility CNA Do?

A Long-Term Care Facility Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) primarily works in nursing homes, residential care facilities, and assisted living facilities.

Their main role is to assist the elderly or disabled patients who require round-the-clock care and attention.

They work closely with registered nurses and other healthcare professionals to provide high-quality care to the residents.

Long-Term Care Facility CNAs are often responsible for providing basic care services such as bathing, grooming, dressing, feeding, and toileting assistance to the residents.

They are also tasked with monitoring the vital signs of residents, including blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate.

In addition, they assist with mobility and physical therapy exercises, help residents with their medication schedules, and report any health changes to the nursing staff.

CNAs also provide emotional support to residents who may be dealing with loneliness or depression.

They often engage residents in social activities and conversations to improve their quality of life.

The role of a CNA in a long-term care facility is crucial as they greatly contribute to the wellbeing and comfort of the residents.

 

Long-Term Care Facility CNA Qualifications and Skills

A Long-Term Care Facility Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) should possess the following qualifications and skills to provide the best care to patients:

• Excellent patient care skills, including assisting with daily activities such as feeding, bathing, and dressing, providing support in mobility and helping to maintain hygiene.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and basic medical procedures to assist in taking vital signs, maintaining patient records and understanding physician’s instructions.
• Strong interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with patients and their family members, establishing a supportive relationship and providing emotional comfort.
• Keen attention to detail to monitor changes in a patient’s condition and report to supervising nurse or physician.
• Physical stamina and strength to lift or move patients, equipment, and supplies, as well as to stand for extended periods.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to handle emergencies or unexpected patient situations effectively.
• Knowledge of safety and infection control protocols to ensure a clean, safe, and supportive environment for the patient.
• Teamworking skills to collaborate with other healthcare professionals for the best patient care.
• Respect for patient privacy and confidentiality as per healthcare regulations and guidelines.

 

Long-Term Care Facility CNA Experience Requirements

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) in long-term care facilities typically gain their foundational experience through a state-approved training program, where they learn important skills such as patient care, infection control, and basic nursing procedures.

Entry-level CNAs usually have less than a year of experience post-certification and may have worked in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or home health before transitioning to a long-term care setting.

Candidates with 1-2 years of experience have often worked in other long-term care facilities or in a similar setting such as a nursing home.

At this level, CNAs have built on their basic skills and have honed their ability to provide patient care, including assistance with daily activities, administering medication, and observing and reporting changes in patient health status.

Those with more than 3 years of experience have typically developed a deep understanding of the needs of long-term care patients, and may have gained experience in specific areas such as dementia care or palliative care.

CNAs with more than 5 years of experience often have supervisory or training experience, and may be ready to take on roles such as Lead CNA or CNA Instructor.

They may also have advanced certification in areas such as geriatric nursing or medication administration.

 

Long-Term Care Facility CNA Education and Training Requirements

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in a long-term care facility, you must first complete a state-approved education program.

These programs are usually available at community colleges, trade schools, and medical facilities and typically last between 4 to 12 weeks.

Courses cover a range of subjects including anatomy, physiology, infection control, nutrition, and medical terminology.

They also include practical training in patient care skills such as bathing, dressing, and transferring patients.

Once the education program is completed, aspiring CNAs must pass a competency exam, which typically comprises both a written test and a skills assessment.

Upon successful completion of the exam, the individual is certified as a CNA.

Additionally, all CNAs are required to complete a minimum number of continuing education hours each year to maintain their certification.

While not a requirement, having previous experience in caregiving or a passion for working with the elderly can be beneficial in this role.

To succeed as a CNA in a long-term care facility, one must also have excellent communication skills, empathy, physical strength, and patience.

 

Long-Term Care Facility CNA Salary Expectations

A Long-Term Care Facility CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) typically earns an average salary of $29,660 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings may fluctuate depending on factors such as experience, certifications, the location of the facility, and the specific employer.

 

Long-Term Care Facility CNA Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Long-Term Care Facility CNA need?

A Long-Term Care Facility CNA should have strong communication skills to interact with patients, families, and medical staff effectively.

They must also have physical endurance as the job often involves standing for long periods, moving patients and performing medical procedures.

Other critical skills include attention to detail, empathy, and strong observation skills to monitor patient’s condition and report changes to the nursing staff.

 

Do Long-Term Care Facility CNAs need a degree?

CNAs don’t need a degree, but they do need to complete a state-approved education program which often lasts between 4-12 weeks.

After completing the program, they need to pass a competency exam to become certified.

In some cases, they may also need to pass a background check before they can start working.

 

What should you look for in a Long-Term Care Facility CNA resume?

When reviewing a Long-Term Care Facility CNA resume, look for a current CNA certification and relevant work experience in long-term care settings.

Additional certifications, such as CPR, can be beneficial.

Also, look for skills such as patient care, communication, and knowledge of medical terminologies and procedures.

 

What qualities make a good Long-Term Care Facility CNA?

A good Long-Term Care Facility CNA is patient, compassionate, and empathetic as they interact with patients who may be in discomfort or distress.

They need to be detail-oriented to ensure they follow care plans accurately and report any changes in a patient’s condition.

A high level of physical stamina is also important as the job can be physically demanding.

 

What are the daily duties of a Long-Term Care Facility CNA?

A Long-Term Care Facility CNA’s daily duties often include assisting patients with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and moving around.

They also monitor vital signs, help with medical procedures, provide emotional support to patients, and maintain patient’s health records.

They work closely with the nursing staff and report any changes in a patient’s condition.

 

Conclusion

And so we conclude.

We’ve just unraveled the real essence of working as a long-term care facility CNA.

Guess what?

It’s not just about routine medical care.

It’s about shaping patient lives, one care plan at a time.

With our detailed long-term care facility CNA job description template and practical examples, you’re fully prepared to make a leap.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precision-made listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Bear in mind:

Every care plan is a chapter in a patient’s life.

Let’s improve those lives. Together.

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