Hospice Certified Nursing Assistant - Hospice Aide

Heartland Hospice•Ames, IA

About The Position

Heartland Hospice is seeking a dependable, empathetic, and attentive Hospice Aide to provide personal care and emotional support to terminally ill patients wherever they call home, including private residences, assisted living facilities, and inpatient units. The role focuses on helping patients experience comfort, dignity, and peace during end-of-life care. The Hospice Aide supports patients with daily personal needs, observes and reports changes in their physical or mental condition, documents visits, and follows infection-control and safety protocols. The position also involves supporting patients’ families, working independently, and participating in team meetings and Quality Improvement activities.

Requirements

Active CNA license in the state of employment.
Current CPR certification.
Driver’s license and reliable vehicle with insurance.
Six months of direct patient care experience.
Comfort working in home settings, hospice facilities, or long-term care environments.
Demonstrated compassion, patience, and ability to handle emotional situations.
Willingness to work independently and adapt to changing patient needs.

Nice To Haves

Experience in home health, hospice, palliative care, or oncology.
Prior roles in hospital nursing, ICU, geriatrics, med-surg, ER, telemetry, or nursing homes.
Exposure to end-of-life care, wound care, or admissions support.

Responsibilities

Provide direct personal care to terminally ill patients.
Assist with personal hygiene, grooming, and toileting.
Support safe mobility, including use of walkers and wheelchairs.
Help with meal preparation, feeding, and light housekeeping.
Observe and report changes in patients’ physical or mental condition.
Offer emotional and psychological support to patients and families.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of visits.
Attend team meetings and participate in Quality Improvement activities.
Practice infection control and follow safety protocols at all times.

Benefits

Competitive pay.
401(k) with company match.
Career advancement opportunities.
National and local recognition programs.
Teammate Assistance Fund.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance for full-time associates.
Mileage reimbursement or fleet vehicle program for full-time associates.
Generous paid time off and seven paid holidays for full-time associates.
Wellness programs, including telemedicine, diabetes management, and joint and spine concierge care, for full-time associates.
Education support and tuition assistance for full-time associates.
Free continuing education units (CEUs) for full-time associates.
Company-paid life and long-term disability insurance for full-time associates.
Voluntary benefits, including pet, critical illness, accident, and long-term care coverage, for full-time associates.