CNA Training Tips

CNA Training Tips Blog

by Leave a Comment

CNA Resume Examples for someone with Experience

Here is a CNA Resume for someone who has work experience but would like to get a new job. Remember that your resume is the first step to a potential job so it is vital for it to be perfect in every way. Your employer will not call you for an interview if he is not impressed by your resume.

If you have just finished your CNA Program and are looking for a job to get started, here are a few quick links that can help you in writing a successful resume and writing your first resume as a CNA.

Guide to resume writing

Writing your first resume as a CNA with no experience

This article includes 2 CNA resume examples for someone with experience. You should include a cover sheet and your contact information for each of these resumes.

here’s the first one.

Contact Information: You should include your full contact information in this part of the resume on the cover sheet, this will include details like: Full Name, Address, Mobile Numbers, Email, Etc.

Objective: Seeking full time position in which to elaborate on my skills as a C.N.A. and further my experience in a clinical setting.

Skills and Qualifications: Since you aren’t entry level, you may have more to include in this area.

Highly Qualified State Certified C.N.A since 1999

CPR and First Aid certified April 05, 2011

Proficient in Medent Computer system

Attended in-services regularly

Prompt answering of call lights

Have cared for residents of various ages in various areas of expertise including Med-Surg , Geriatrics and Mental Health

Education: This will be where you list your education history.

C.N.A. Certification obtained at Talihina Vocational School May, 10, 1999.

Completed State Mandated Education Courses

Continuing Education completed at regular in-services via St. Mary’s Medical Center

HIPAA Training seminar attended with certification obtained April 20, 2011

Experience: Along with your basic skills, you can elaborate any special skills you may have performed while working.

Saint Mary’s Medical Center from June 25th, 2000 – Present

Worked  in the Mental Health Ward, assisted patients with A.D.L.s such as shaving, bathing, light housekeeping, reported changes in patient mood or status, monitored patients on suicide watch and patients on detox status.

Worked Med-Surg with attending to patients of all ages with various conditions, performed basic C.N.A. duties, monitored I & O, observed patients receiving IV medications, reported changes in condition to charge nurse.

References: You will also need to include references and contact information.

Paula Pratt, BSN, Patient Care Coordinator,

555-556-5555

PaulaP@St.Mary’s.com

—end—

Here is the second example. You will need to begin with a cover sheet.  Then follow with your objective.

Objective: Qualified and capable C.N.A. seeking flexible, part time, Home Care, position while attending L.P.N. program.

Skills and Qualifications: You will list any positive skills and qualifications that you have acquired during your experience as a C.N.A.

Certified C.N.A. since 1992

ACLS certified

Certified to perform EKGs

Commendable bedside manner and able to build trust with patients

Excels in multi-tasking

Works well with others

Reliable and prompt

Obtains and records vital signs accurately

Education: List any education you have obtained during your journey as a C.N.A.

C.N.A Program completed and certification obtained via Hartford Technology Center May, 10, 1992

CPR and First Aid Certification obtained May 14th, 2011

In house training for dietary guidelines for the cardiac patient acquired December 2nd, 1999

Experience: Again, list any past work experience that you have acquired.

Cardiology Health Center September 1999 – present

Provides safe environment for patient, assists patients post procedures with ambulating, dressing, and observes knowledge deficits that may require further teaching from the R.N.

Obtains vital signs, assists patients with ADL’s and reinforces instruction from nurses and Physicians.

Heartland Home Health Care May 25th 1992 – August 1999

Made home care visits to patient’s homes: assisted with ADL’s bathing, making light meals, grocery shopping, reporting changes in patient status to charge nurse.

References: List your references after asking permission.

Dr. Moses Gelato, Cardiologist

555-565-5655

HeartDr@lifeline.com

Heather Amos, BSN

575-575-5575

AmosH@yoohoo.com

These resumes represent 2 different C.N.A.s, each with various levels of skill and experience.   When you write your resume, follow the basic resume structure but make certain that it is tailored to meet your needs.  A proper representation of yourself is the best way to secure a career path that is beneficial for you and your employer.  Good luck!

If you found this article informative, please recommend it to your friends and family.

Written by Stephanie Dubenezic RN, LPN

by 3 Comments

How to receive Free CNA Training from Nursing Homes

If you aspire to become a certified nurse assistant but feel that you do not have the financial means required for an education, then may want to inquire at your local nursing home or assisted living facility about a different means of assistance.

Many individuals would love to better their financial situation by means of a better education or a higher paying job.  A C.N.A certification can certainly accomplish both goals. However, for some, the probability of meeting these goals can seem further out of reach than a reality.  Times are tough financially and for many people they struggle just to make ends meet and to take care of their families on a day to day basis. There is financial assistance available for you in your state and one of the unlikely sources of this aid may be your local nursing home.

There are several ways to inquire about on the job training programs available for your area.  You can contact the State Department of Health or the State Department of Labor for your state.  These State Departments can provide you with a list of local nursing homes, long term care facilities, hospices and assisted living facilities that participate in on the job training programs.  These facilities are often reimbursed for training expenses by Medicaid.   You can also go online and use a search engine to look for nursing homes in your area to see if any of the facilities in your vicinity participate in any on the job training programs.  Lastly, you can go about it the old fashioned way.  Pick up a phone book and go through the yellow pages to search out local health care facilities. You can call them individually to make your inquiry.  It never hurts to ask and the worst they can say is no and then possibly point you in the right direction.

The facilities who participate in this form of on the job training are usually understaffed and often have a deficit of Certified Nurse Assistants and even Nurses with a surplus of positions that need to be filled.  What the facility will ask from you in return for you free training is that you agree under legal binding contract to work for that particular facility for a set amount of time which is normally a year.   You may not receive your training and then go to work for another facility unless it is in concert with the training facility.

Another perk of on the job training is that you can work while you are training.  Positions may be part time or full time.  Your training will usually range from 4 to 6 weeks in length and is geared at your own pace. While training, you will become well versed in various aspects of basic patient care, such as bed making, feeding, bathing, and how to obtain vital signs.  You will learn how to demonstrate appropriate bedside manner, how to deal with difficult situations regarding residents and even family members, and when and how to report when something isn’t right.  You will be taught how to safely care for your patients and how to keep yourself healthy by performing safe health care practices. These practices will include consistent utilization of universal precautions and of proper body mechanics along with observation of appropriate barrier and bag precautions and regular practice of proper hand washing techniques. You will also learn how to remain within your scope of practice.  A nursing home is an excellent place to become familiar with your basic health care skills as you will use them frequently on a daily basis.

At the end of your training you will be required to pass a state mandated exam which will question you on various areas of your training.  If you have a passing grade, you will receive your certification from the state and can become legally employed as a C.N.A.  Then you will fulfill your contract for your sponsoring employer as a paid C.N.A.

If you are interested in becoming a state certified nurse assistant and are in need of financial assistance, do not discount your local nursing homes and long term care facilities as a means of financial assistance.  There are several programs that are available to you in your state and they are out there for the taking.  All you have to do is take the time to inquire.

Written by Stephanie Dubenezic RN, LPN

by 2 Comments

How to get Free CNA Training from State Nursing Boards

The State Board of Nursing is a state governed organization responsible for ensuring the safe practice of working nurses under the Nursing Practice Act.  There is a State Board of Nursing for each state and though their principles may vary to some degree, the sole purpose of the Board is to public protection by means of regulating and enforcing safe practice guidelines.  One of the ways the Board of Nursing provides a safe environment of practice is to ensure that the staff to patient ratio is met.  There is such a shortage of certified nursing assistants and other members of the nursing staff in some areas that the board may offer free C.N.A. and nursing training to ensure that this critical need is met.

If you are seeking free C.N.A. training, then the State Board of Nursing for your state may be an excellent place to begin.  The State Board will generally encompass a list of state accredited programs that may be of assistance to you on your way to becoming a C.N.A.   The State Board not only offers C.N.A. training to those who meet the financial criteria, but they also may provide means of support to those who fail to meet the financial criteria for the free program.

One of the ways the State Board may offer assistance is that the Board can direct you to participating universities and vocational or technical schools that may offer a scholarship program. You must meet financial criteria and qualify academically as well.

The Board may also provide a list of accredited hospitals or that provide on the job training.  You can receive an education by working at the hospital, provided that you sign a contract to work for the facility once your training has been completed and you have been certified.  The work contract is prearranged and specifies that you to retain employment at the facility for a particular amount of time following your certification as a C.N.A.

The State Board of Nursing can also provide you with the appropriate channels to follow to apply for government aid by means of a grant or work program.  You must again fall into a specific financial category to obtain this means of assistance.

The State Board of Nursing may offer other means of assistance for you to receive financial assistance in addition to those afore mentioned.  You should contact your local State Board of Nursing to find out which programs may be available for you in your state.  If possible, make an appointment to meet with someone at the State Board of Nursing to discuss which types of assistance you may be qualified to receive.  Find out in advance what you need to bring with you as you may be asked to bring proof of your current financial situation.

The State Board of Nursing is primarily funded by the monies received from board members and all forms of nursing staff by means of licensure renewal payments and other financial expenses regarding licensure and law as mandated by the Nursing Practice Act.  In addition to these funds, the State Board may also receive a small amount of support from the U.S. government by which to provide financial assistance to those in need.  On occasion, the State Board may also offer direct assistance and can waive the fees required for C.N.A. training courses if the financial criterion is met.  Anyone in need should be made aware of the financial resources available for the betterment of their lives.

The State Board of Nursing for your state may offer different programs than those mentioned above.  You should contact the State Board of Nursing for the state in which you reside to find out which programs are available to you in your home state.  If you are in need of assistance to attend an accredited C.N.A. program and you feel that you may be qualified to receive financial aid to help you to obtain an education, then the State Board of Nursing may be able to point you in the right direction and move you one step closer to meeting your goal of becoming a certified nurse assistant at little or no cost to you.  All you have to do is check it out.

Written by Stephanie Dubenezic RN, LPN

by 1 Comment

CNA Job Interview Tips

The key to finding success as a working C.N.A. begins with an interview.  Attending an interview can be an intimidating experience.  You may second guess your abilities or feel put on the spot when direct questions are asked.  There are some things you can do to make the interview a positive experience.

Be Prepared:

Preparation for an interview is essential.  The last thing you want to do is to enter into an interview for a health care position and seem unsure of yourself or your abilities.  Do some research about the facility, and investigate the description of the position for which you will be applying for and all that the position will entail.  You will not only have a better idea of what the potential employer may ask of you during the interview process but,  you will also have a better indication as to how you will answer.

Look the Part:

You have heard the old adage, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression.”  This is especially true when applying for a position in a competitive field such as health care.  You should maintain a well kept, clean appearance, and you should assert positive affect as well.  Scrubs are generally not proper interview attire.  Wear something casual and try not to overdo.  Try to wear something that flatters you and that you are comfortable in.

Represent Yourself:

An interview can either make or break you.  The sole purpose of an interview is to give a potential employer the opportunity to surmise your credentials and competence regarding the position for which you are applying.  The interview itself is but a brief moment for you to show a potential employer whether or not you meet the qualifications necessary to carry out the job.  Be sure to highlight your past experience, education, volunteer work and any positive traits that you may possess in relation to the prospective position.

Show Interest:

One way you can show a probable employer that you are interested in working for them is to do just that.  Show interest.  Show up to the interview on time.  Ask some questions regarding the position you are applying for and be somewhat knowledgeable about the facility and staff.   Let the employer know through your facial expressions and attitude that you are up to the task.  You must try to maintain an optimistic persona.  If you are having a terrible day or are unprepared, you may want to reschedule the interview for a later date if possible.

Be Professional:

You should behave in a professional manner during an interview.  Try to be honest without revealing too much personal information.  For example, you should never speak poorly of a past employer or divulge any personal problems that you may have.  A potential employer will most likely not find this appealing.  Try to keep your personal life somewhat private.  Small talk is acceptable if the employer asks you a direct question regarding children and child care arrangements and such, but you should customarily try to adhere to the topic of employment as much as possible.

Make Yourself Stand Out:

One way to secure a position of employment is to stand out from the rest of the applicants.  I do not infer that you should come into a job interview with your hair dyed hot pink.  Here are a few appropriate ways to shine.  Be courteous and respectful.  Good manners and a smile will never go unnoticed.   Be organized.   Put forth a little extra effort when presenting your resume.   For example, present your resume or portfolio in a neat, organized and easy to read format and include a professional folder to submit to a potential employer.  Preserve good posture and maintain good eye contact.

The health care field is a competitive, ever changing and challenging profession, but with a little preparation and planning on your part, you can soon be an interview success and secure the C.N.A position that is right for you.   Good luck!

Written by Stephanie Dubenezic RN, LPN

by Leave a Comment

Free CNA Training from the Job Corps

There are many individuals who may feel defeated by circumstance.  The promise of a higher paying job and the ability to reach one’s full potential just doesn’t seem possible due to surmounting financial burden.  Many people are living from paycheck to paycheck while simply trying to care for themselves or their families.  Taking time off of work to attend classes and pursue a certification for a career as a Certified Nurse Assistant doesn’t seem tangible.  However, if you meet certain criteria, you may be able to obtain free CNA training via Job Corps.

Job Corps is a division of the U.S. Department of Labor.  Job Corps offers occupational training for a number of diverse career paths  including, masonry, carpentry, automotive repair, heavy equipment operations, computer tech training, medical assistant training and training for the C.N.A. as well.  Job Corp can even help you to obtain your G.E.D. in the event that you didn’t graduate from high school.  To qualify for Job Corp assistance you need only be 16 – 24 years of age, you must be a citizen of the U.S. or a legal U.S. resident, and you must meet the low income requirements as defined by the Job Corps for your state.

The way Job Corps works is to provide instruction through an education center where the student will reside until that training iscompleted.  Most students reside within the dorms of the center during training but there are instances where an individual may commute from home. The details of a commute would have to be confirmed through admissions counselor for the Job Corps in your state.  Typically, a student will be directed to the Job Corps facility nearest their home.  If you choose to live in the center at Job Corps you will reside in a shared space with up to 7 roommates.  There are separate male and female dormitories.  Children are allowed and child care is offered as well.  All of the assistance is at no cost to you.  Depending upon the length of your training and which career option you choose, Job Corps recommends that you reside at the center up to a full year to receive the full knowledge and societal benefit needed to achieve success.  You will have to speak to counselor at your training facility to find out what this means for your career choice, specifically.  You are free to leave the program at any time.

There are some other notable benefits offered by Job Corps as well.   Job Corps will actually pay you a modest living allowance while you are attending classes.  Apparently, as you progress in your training, your living allowance will increase as well.  By doing this, they relieve the financial burden from the student to allow them to focus solely on their career training.

There are some rules to follow while residing at Job Corps.  There is a modest dress code that must be followed and you may even be required to wear a uniform during your training hours.  If this is the case, Job Corps will provide a uniform for you.  If you are in pursuit of C.N.A. training you will most likely be required to wear scrubs in a clinical setting.

The C.N.A. training program through job Corps lasts about 8 – 12 weeks but training is provided at your own pace.    At the end of your C.N.A training, you will receive a nationally recognized certificate of completion.  You must then pass a state licensure exam to receive your certification.  Job Corps can even assist you in finding a place of employment at the end of your training.

If you are interested in a achieving a C.N.A. certification but feel you may not have the resources to get yourself started, then Job Corps may be a viable option for you.  You can go to the Job Corps website at www.jobcorps.gov and click on locations to find a Job Corps closest to you or you can request an information packet through the website.

Written by Stephanie Dubenezic RN, LPN

by 1 Comment

CNA Resume sample for someone with no experience

A resume is very important as it is the first glimpse an employer will have of a potential employee.   As a C.N.A. you must know that the field of health care is a highly competitive and challenging line of work.  Therefore, you must ensure that your resume is a proper reflection of your capabilities.  Here is a sample resumes for a C.N.A.,this sample resume is geared toward the entry level C.N.A.

You have finally completed the C.N.A. program and you should now have your certification.  It makes sense that you are ready to seek employment.  A well put together resume can help you achieve your goals as an employee.  If you are fresh out of school, then this first sample resume is for you. The second one is for those who have some experience working as a cna and it can be found here:

CNA Resume for those who have work Experience

Also see:

How to write a successful resume

 

The following is what you include in your resume if this is your first time:

Contact Information: You will include your contact information in the first portion of the resume on your cover sheet.   Make sure your information is current and accurate.

Your full name

Current address

Telephone numbers

Email if applicable

Objective: This is where you state what you wish to accomplish in a position of employment.

Certified Nurse’s Assistant seeking challenging position in which to expand upon my skills and knowledge base.

Skills and Qualifications: You should list your certifications and any skills you may possess and the date that you obtained them. You should include tasks that show your capabilities. Since you are a new C.N.A. basic skills are acceptable.

For example:

C.N.A. certification obtained May 05, 2011

CPR and First Aid Certification completed April 25, 2011

Able to provide care safely and effectively

Proficient in basic skills, bathing, shaving, bed making, feeding, vital signs as ordered

Promptly attends to needs of patient

Willing to learn new skills

Excellent communication with other members of health care team; follows appropriate chain of command

Proficient in Safety Procedures

Knowledgeable in medical terminology

Charts effectively

Education: This is where you list any education that could help you in your employment

Attended Leonard Vocational School C.N.A program, obtained certification May 30, 2011

Computer Basics Course complete

State Mandated Barrier Precaution Course Completed June 01, 2011

Experience: This may include some of your skills obtained during your time at school. You should also include the dates attended. You may also include some employment that is non medical related to establish responsibility.

Leonard Vocational School C.N.A. clinical rotation from Feb. 18th, 2011- April 12, 2011

Patient care performed as ordered, assisted with feeding, bathing, light housekeeping, simple wound care etc.  Reported changes in patient status to charge nurse, obtained vitals, charted effectively

Sunshine Daycare

Cared for children ages 0-2 years for 8 hours a day, changed diapers, feeding, filled out incident reports for injury or illness. Light cleaning performed.

References: Lastly, be sure to include references. As an entry level C.N.A., it is acceptable to include an instructor or a charge nurse who supervised your work while in school. Just ask their permission first before including them as a reference.

Sandra Benforsio, BSN, C.N.A. Program Instructor

555-555-5252

Benforsio@Voc.org.

Dayton P. Gurney, RN, charge nurse at St. Peter’s Hospital

555-555-5555

DPG@yoohoo.com

After You’ve written and sent in your request, If you’re successful they will call you for an interview. Here are some quick tips of what you can expect in an interview:

CNA Interview Tips

CNA Interview Questions

Written by Stephanie Dubenezic RN, LPN