Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Vinfen•Hartford, CT

About The Position

The Certified Nursing Assistant provides direct service and routine and episodic nursing aide care in a clinically intensive program for individuals with complex health needs. The role supports self-administration of medications in accordance with applicable policies and procedures and uses rehabilitation principles and trauma-informed care to help individuals overcome barriers, live more independently, and become integrated into the community. The CNA also helps the program meet high-quality standards. The position includes assisting with activities of daily living and health-related needs, observing and reporting changes in individuals’ status, maintaining safe and welcoming environments, documenting care, supporting participation in home and community activities, and collaborating with colleagues, families, providers, and outside agencies. The role requires safe use of assistive and medical equipment and may include transportation to appointments.

Requirements

Prior experience as a CNA; experience with people with complex mental health needs is preferred.
High school diploma or equivalent.
CNA certification in the state of service.
Valid driver's license presented at employment; must be at least 21 years old, have held a valid U.S. driver's license for at least one year, and pass a driver's screening background check.
If using a personal vehicle, maintain adequate insurance and a safe driving record, subject to annual checks.
Obtain CPR certification within two weeks of hire.
Obtain First Aid certification within two weeks of hire.
Obtain MAP training within 150 days of hire.
Obtain CPI training within 60 days of hire.
CNA skills and competencies.
Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with colleagues.
Ability to communicate verbally and document nursing care accurately and effectively.
Sensitivity to cultural, religious, ethnic, disability, and gender issues.
Knowledge of human, legal, and civil rights, community, and other resources.
Knowledge of empowerment and self-advocacy techniques and teaching modalities.
Ability to balance competing priorities and make independent judgments and decisions.
Ability to work professionally and confidentially.
Knowledge of personal computer applications and equipment.
Ability to perform physically active direct-care work, including standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, and climbing.
Ability to lift at least 25 pounds using proper lifting techniques or a two-person lift.
Ability to operate a computer and office equipment such as a calculator, copier, and printer.
Ability to sit, reach, climb stairs, maneuver through narrow spaces or hallways, and assist clients with daily living tasks.
Ability to speak, hear, and communicate with clients, staff, and external representatives, and meet the stated vision requirements.

Nice To Haves

Prior CNA experience with people who have complex mental health needs.

Responsibilities

Assist individuals with activities of daily living according to their treatment plans, including community membership and relationships, vital signs, laundry, toileting, showering, dressing, shaving, wound care, foot care, skin checks, and passive range-of-motion exercises as needed or ordered.
Monitor and observe individuals for changes in physical, mental, or emotional status.
Assist with self-administration of medication according to Vinfen policies and procedures.
Provide for individuals’ nutritional needs.
Transport, assist, and accompany individuals to medical, dental, and other appointments as directed by the shift or program manager or administrator.
Maintain a safe, clean, welcoming, and respectful environment, including individuals’ rooms and common areas, while meeting safety and regulatory standards and maintaining trauma-informed care principles.
Document nursing care and services, including daily shift and TCM notes, and keep medical records, confidential files, and other information current and accurate.
Follow policies and procedures for incident reporting and medication errors, and ensure paperwork meets Vinfen and applicable outside-agency standards.
Communicate effectively with managers, administrators, colleagues, Vinfen staff, and individuals’ families or guardians as warranted; report changes in individuals’ status as directed.
Use assistive equipment safely, including wheelchairs and Hoyer lifts; maintain individuals’ medical equipment and supplies, including wheelchairs, walkers, and Hoyer lifts.
Use medical equipment safely, including glucometers, nebulizers, and oxygen.
Provide opportunities for individuals to participate in home, program, and community events.
Encourage and respect individuals’ preferences and choices and advocate effectively on their behalf.
Develop and maintain effective relationships with individuals, families, guardians, and other significant people in their lives.
Act as a liaison and collaborate with Vinfen departments, outside agencies, and community providers.
Attend and actively participate in staff, training, and community meetings.
Serve as a positive role model for individuals served.
Assist with orientation of new staff.
Adhere to Vinfen policies and procedures and perform other related duties as assigned.