CNA Skill Sets To Pass

Key Areas on a CNA Skills Checklist:

  • Basic Nursing Skills:

    • Vital Signs: Measuring and recording temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure. 

    • Personal Care: Assisting with bathing, dressing, grooming, and oral hygiene. 

    • Mobility Assistance: Helping residents with ambulation, transfers, and positioning. 

    • Toileting and Elimination: Assisting with bedpans, urinals, and commodes, as well as bladder and bowel retraining. 

    • Feeding Assistance: Offering support with meals and ensuring proper nutrition. 

  • Infection Control:

    • Hand Hygiene: Proper handwashing techniques using soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizers. 

    • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Correctly donning and doffing gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection. 

    • Standard Precautions: Implementing measures to prevent the spread of infection. 

    • Bloodborne Pathogen Standard: Understanding and adhering to protocols for handling blood and bodily fluids. 

  • Communication and Resident Rights:

    • Communication with Residents: Explaining procedures, asking about preferences, and actively listening to residents. 

    • Respecting Resident Rights: Ensuring privacy, dignity, and confidentiality. 

  • Safety and Emergency Procedures:

    • Fall Prevention: Implementing strategies to minimize the risk of falls. 

    • Emergency Procedures: Knowing how to respond to medical emergencies, such as choking or seizures. 

    • Body Mechanics: Using proper techniques to protect themselves and residents from injury. 

  • Documentation and Reporting:

    • Recording Observations: Accurately documenting vital signs, intake and output, and any changes in resident condition. 

    • Reporting Abnormalities: Notifying the appropriate healthcare professional of any changes or concerns. 

  • Other Skills:

    • Back Rubs: Performing back rubs to promote comfort and circulation. 

    • Perineal Care: Providing hygiene care to the perineal area.

    • Catheter Care: Assisting with the care and maintenance of urinary catheters. 

    • Specimen Collection: Collecting various types of specimens, such as urine, stool, and sputum. 

A CNA skills checklist is used to evaluate a candidate's competency in performing these tasks, ensuring they are adequately prepared for the demands of their role.