Role of the CNA

Payers in Healthcare

  • Definition of Payers: Individuals or organizations responsible for paying for healthcare services. Examples include:

    • Insurance Companies

    • Government Agencies: Such as Medicare and Medicaid

    • Individuals

    • Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs)

    • Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs)

Long-Term Care (LTC)

  • Definition: Facilities providing long-term skilled care.

  • Previous Terminology: Formerly known as Nursing Homes.

  • Current Terms:

    • Skilled nursing facilities

    • Rehabilitation centers

    • Extended care facilities

Assisted Living

  • Definition: Residences for individuals requiring some help with daily care but do not need 24-hour skilled care.

Acute Care

  • Definition: Medical care provided in hospitals and ambulatory settings for illnesses or injuries.

Outpatient Care

  • Definition: Care that does not require an overnight stay in a medical facility.

Rehabilitation

  • Definition: Services including physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

Policies and Procedures

  • Policy: A defined course of action to be followed in specific situations (e.g., handling confidentiality).

  • Procedure: A method or guideline for how to perform certain tasks (e.g., filling out a form, submission procedures).

Medicare Information

  • Definition: A federal government insurance plan for individuals aged 65 or older or those with certain disabilities or illnesses.

  • Parts of Medicare:

    • Part A: Covers hospital care, skilled nursing facilities, home health care, and hospice care.

    • Part B: Provides coverage for doctor services and other necessary medical equipment and services.

    • Part D: Assists with the costs of prescription medications.

  • Funding: Primarily funded by the federal government with contributions from each state.

  • Eligibility and Coverage: Varies based on income and specific circumstances; requires individuals to qualify for Medicaid.

Providers in Healthcare Systems

  • Definition of Providers: Individuals or organizations that deliver healthcare.

  • Examples of Providers:

    • Facilities: Locations where care is administered (e.g., hospitals, clinics).

    • Home Health Care: In-home care often for elderly or chronically ill patients wishing to stay at home.

    • Adult Day Services: Out-of-home services that provide respite care.

    • Acute vs. Chronic Conditions: Distinction between short-term and long-term medical issues.

    • Hospice Care: Specialized care for patients with terminal illnesses.

Policies and Procedures Practice

  • Examples: Determining if statements are policies or procedures:

    1. Nursing assistants will not perform tasks outside their job description. (Policy)

    2. Nursing assistants must arrive on time in approved uniforms. (Policy)

    3. Incident forms post-fall to be completed quickly and placed in the supervisor’s office. (Procedure)

    4. Nursing staff must clock in using the designated time clock. (Procedure)

Definitions of Healthcare Roles

  • Roles and Responsibilities:

    • Nursing Assistant (CNA): Viewed as the "eyes and ears" of the healthcare team, providing essential care and supervision.

    • Registered Nurse (RN): Coordinates, manages, and provides skilled nursing care.

    • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN/LVN): Administers medications and treatments.

    • Physical Therapist: Focuses on increasing movement and mobility.

    • Speech Therapist: Provides care for communication and swallowing disorders.

    • Registered Dietitian: Assesses nutritional needs and treatment plans.

    • Medical Social Worker: Assists patients in accessing support services like counseling and financial aid.

    • Activities Director: Plans social and recreational activities for residents.

CNA Certification and Training

  • CNA Definition: Certified Nurse Aide proficiently certified by the Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) in Texas.

  • Certification Requirements:

    • Completion of a training course.

    • Passing a written examination.

    • Successfully demonstrating skills.

  • Employment Settings: CNAs can work in hospitals or long-term care facilities.

Duties and Responsibilities of a CNA

  • Providing a Safe Environment:

    • Ensuring physical safety of residents.

    • Addressing psychosocial needs of residents.

  • Fulfilling Responsibilities:

    • Meeting residents' individual needs.

    • Reporting any issues to supervisors promptly.

    • Maintaining cleanliness and confidentiality in all practices.

    • Actively participating in educational programs.

  • Person-Centered Care:

    • Recognizing that individuals have unique values and rights to dignity and respect.

    • Actively listening to residents' needs and preferences and integrating these into care plans.