Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Overview

Provides direct service and daily routine and episodic daily nursing aide care in a clinically intensive program designed to provide trauma-informed care for individuals with complex health needs. Supports self-administration of medications according to DMHAS policies and procedures. Uses rehabilitation values, principles and techniques, including trauma-informed care principles to help individuals served overcome barriers to live more independently. Assists individuals served to become integrated into the community.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Provides assistance with activities of daily living according to each individual's treatment plan, including community membership, community relationships, vital signs, laundry, toileting, showering, dressing, shaving, wound care, foot care, skin checks, and passive range of motion exercises.
• Monitors and observes individuals served for any changes in physical, mental, or emotional status.
• Assists with self-administration of medication in accordance with Vinfen policies and procedures.
• Provides for the nutritional needs of individuals served.
• Transports, assists, and accompanies individuals served to medical, dental, and other appointments.
• Creates a safe, clean, welcoming, and respectful environment and ensures it meets all safety and regulatory standards and maintains trauma-informed care principles.
• Documents nursing care and services provided, including daily shift/TCM notes, and ensures medical records and confidential files are current and accurate.
• Follows policies and procedures for incident reporting and medication errors.
• Communicates effectively with manager/administrator, colleagues, and clients' families and/or guardians.
• Works effectively and safely with assistive equipment including wheelchairs, Hoyer lifts, walkers, glucometers, nebulizers, and oxygen.
• Provides opportunities for individuals served to engage and participate in home/program and community events.
• Advocates effectively for individuals served and respects their preferences and choices.
• Develops and maintains effective relationships with individuals served, families, and/or guardians.
• Acts as liaison and collaborates with other Vinfen departments, outside agencies, and community providers.
• Attends and actively participates in staff meetings, trainings, and community meetings.
• Assists with orientation of new staff.

Knowledge and Skills

• Skills and competencies of a C.N.A.
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with colleagues
• Ability to accurately and effectively communicate verbally
• Ability to accurately and effectively document nursing care provided
• Sensitivity to cultural, religious, ethnic, disability, and gender issues
• Knowledge of human, legal, civil rights, community, and other resources
• Knowledge of empowerment and self-advocacy techniques
• Knowledge of teaching modalities
• Ability to balance competing priorities
• Ability to make independent judgments and decisions
• Ability to work in a professional and confidential capacity
• Knowledge of personal computer applications and equipment

Qualifications

Prior experience as a C.N.A., preferably with people with complex mental health needs. A high school diploma or equivalent required.

Driving is a requirement for this position using either a Vinfen van or personal vehicle. A valid driver's license must be presented at the time of employment. Incumbents must be at least 21 years of age, have maintained a valid US driver's license for at least one year, and must be able to pass a driver's screening background check.

This is a very physically active position. Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds using proper lifting techniques or the use of a two-person lift. Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, climb, sit, reach, climb stairs, and maneuver through narrow spaces or hallways.

Required Certifications/Trainings: CPR within 2 weeks of hire, First Aid within 2 weeks of hire, MAP within 150 days of hire, CPI required within 60 days of hire. CNA certification in state of service required.