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JOB TITLE: GERIATRIC NURSING ASSISTANT

REPORTS TO: REGISTERED NURSE (RN)

DEPARTMENT: HUMAN RESOURCES / RESIDENTIAL SERVICE AGENCY

DIVISION: ADULT SERVICES

DATE APPROVED: JUNE 1, 2009

JOB SUMMARY:

Provides personal care services under the direction of the Registered Nurse (RN). The nursing assistant is assigned specific clients by the R.N. or additional professionals of such status level and performs needful services to elderly clients in order to maintain their personal comfort.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Successful completion of a formal certification training program, written skills test, and competency evaluation
  • Valid certification to practice in Maryland
  • Minimum age requirement of 18 years
  • Minimum of one year of work experience in a supervised setting
  • Demonstrated ability to read, write, and follow a written plan of care
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Valid driver's license or signed state-issued ID card
  • Current CPR and First Aid certification signed by the instructor
  • Hepatitis B vaccination
  • Physical examination or medical statement completed within the past year
  • Proof of negative TB test results or chest X-ray clearings
  • Criminal background check clearance (CJIS report)
  • Three personal reference letters (with contact numbers)
  • Copy of original signed Social Security card
  • Two professional/employment reference letters (with contact numbers)
DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:

Performs simple procedures as an extension of therapy services under the direction and supervision of the therapist, including:

  • Range of motion exercises
  • Assisting with ambulation and exercises

Performs personal care activities, including:

  • Dressing
  • Bathing
  • Oral hygiene
  • Shaving
  • Skin and nail care

Performs household duties necessary for the client's healthcare in their home, including:

  • Laundry
  • Light chores
  • Meal preparation and feeding
  • Changing bed linen
  • Moving and repositioning bedridden patients
  • Measures temperatures
  • Measures pulse and blood pressure
  • Prepares and transports clients
  • Reports any observed changes in the client's condition or needs to the R.N.
  • Documents care provided to the client and completes required records and observations to be included in the client's records
  • Promotes personal safety and a safe environment for clients by observing infection control practices per agency guidelines and reporting unsafe situations to the R.N., Supervisor, or Case Manager
  • Exhibits safe practices in equipment use, refrains from operating equipment prior to receiving proper training/orientation, and notifies the supervisor of physical or educational needs
  • Communicates effectively through observation, recording, reporting, and interpersonal relations
  • Maintains confidentiality in all areas of service
  • Performs other related healthcare duties and responsibilities as deemed necessary
  • Demonstrates patience, strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to work effectively as a team player
  • Participates in monthly in-service training to stay updated on changes in the healthcare field while maintaining compliance with DHMH requirements