CNA Skill Series: Performing Range of Motion Exercises

As a certified nursing assistant, you will be responsible for providing basic care to patients. This can include everything from helping them bathe and eat to providing emotional support. However, one of your job’s most important aspects is ensuring that patients maintain their Range of motion (ROM).

ROM exercises are important for patients of all ages, but they are especially crucial for those who are elderly or have chronic health conditions. These exercises help to prevent joint stiffness, muscle weakness, and contractures. They also promote circulation and help to reduce pain.

There are a variety of different kinds of ROM exercises that you can perform with your patients. It is important to select the right exercises for each individual based on their needs and abilities.

 

Performing Range of Motion Exercises for One Knee and One Ankle

Start with Basics: In this step, CNAs communicate with the patients and explain the total procedure. CNA speaks with the patient clearly, and slowly and maintains face-to-face contact with the patient.

Ensure Privacy: In this step, CNA closes the curtains or door to ensure patient privacy.

Position Patient: CNA position the patient supine in bed and instruct the patient to inform them if the patient feels pain when performing the exercise.

Flexion/Extension: While supporting the knee and ankle, Bends the knee and then return the leg to the patient’s normal position. Do it three times. Move the joints gently, slowly, and smoothly through the Range of motion. Stop the exercise immediately if the patient verbalizes the pain.

Dorsiflexion and Plantarflexion: In this step, CNA pushes or pulls the foot toward the head (dorsiflexion) and pushes or pulls the foot down; toes point down (plantar flexion). Do it three times. Move the joints gently, slowly, and smoothly through the Range of motion. Stop the exercise immediately if the patient verbalizes the pain.

Place Signaling Device:  CNA places a signaling device within the patient’s reach in case the patient needs assistance.

Wash Hands: CNA washes their hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub.

Document the Results: Lastly, CNA documents the results of the exercise in the patient’s medical record.

 

Performing Range of Motion Exercises for One Shoulder

Start with Basics: In this step, CNAs communicate with the patients and explain the total procedure. CNA speaks with the patient clearly, and slowly and maintains face-to-face contact with the patient.

Ensure Privacy: In this step, CNA closes the curtains or door to ensure patient privacy.

Instruct the Patient: CNA instructs the patient to inform them if they feel pain when performing the exercise.

Flexion/Extension:  In this step, CNA raises the patient’s arm from the side position to the overhead position (shoulder flexion) and then returns the arm down to the side position of the body (shoulder extension). Do it at least three times. Again, move the joints gently, slowly, and smoothly through the Range of motion. Stop the exercise immediately if the patient verbalizes the pain.

Abduction/Adduction: In this step, CNA moves the patient’s arm away from the side of the body to shoulder level (shoulder abduction) and then returns the arm to the side of the body (shoulder adduction). Do it three times. Move the joints gently, slowly, and smoothly through the Range of motion. Stop the exercise immediately if the patient verbalizes the pain.

Place Signaling Device: CNA places a signaling device within the patient’s reach in case the patient needs assistance.

Wash Hands: CNA washes their hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub.

Document the Results: In this step, CNA documents the results of the exercise in the patient’s medical record.

Range of motion exercises is important that can be performed by certified nursing assistants (CNAs) with their patients. These exercises can help improve flexibility and mobility and reduce pain levels. Before beginning any of these exercises, consult with the patient’s physician to ensure that they are appropriate for the individual.

CNA TRAINING INSTITUTE,INC
140 Eldridge Road # G, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Phone: (346) 812 – 0147
Phone: (281) 201 – 2678
https://cnatraininginstitute.org/

The post CNA Skill Series: Performing Range of Motion Exercises appeared first on CNA Training in Houston | Consolidated Nurse Aide Training.

CNA Skill Series: Assist to Ambulate Using Transfer Belt

Many patients may struggle to stand or walk on their own after an injury or surgery. They may require the help of a certified nursing assistant (CNA) to ambulate or move around. This process is called transfer. It can be very dangerous for both the patient and the CNA if the transfer is not done properly.

There are many ways to ambulate a patient, but one of the most common is using a transfer belt. A transfer belt is a long strap that goes around the patient’s waist. The CNA holds onto the ends of the belt to help support the patient’s weight.

Before beginning the transfer, it is important to assess the situation. Make sure that there is enough space to move around without hitting anything. If the patient is too heavy to lift, do not attempt to ambulate them without help. You could injure yourself or the patient.

To ambulate a patient using a transfer belt, follow these steps:

Explain the Procedure: Before beginning the process, the CNA needs to explain what they will be doing step by step, speaking clearly, slowly and maintaining face-to-face contact if possible. This will help the patient feel more comfortable and less anxious.

Maintain Privacy: Patients may feel embarrassed about needing help to move around. Be sure to maintain their privacy by closing the door or curtains if possible.

The patient has proper attire:  Be sure they wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict their movement. They should also remove any loose jewelry or clothing that could get caught on something. Patients also should wear non-skid footwear.

The bed is at a Safe Level: Before assisting to stand, make sure the bed is at a safe level. This will help prevent the patient from falling. CNAs also should lock bed wheels as needed. Then the CNA help the patient to sit on the bed with feet flat on the floor.

Belt Placement: The transfer belt should be placed high on the patient’s waist, over the clothing or gown. It should be tight enough to provide support but not so tight that it is uncomfortable.

Standing Up: The CNA then stands facing the patient, positioning to ensure patient safety during the transfer. The CNA can count to three to alert the patient to begin standing. On signal, CNA assists patient to stand by grasping transfer belt on both sides with hands close to hips. CNA slides their hands up the belt as the patient stands to support the patient’s weight.

Walking: Once the patient stands, the CNA can help them take a few steps. The CNA should maintain a firm grip on the belt and walk slightly behind the patient, so they can catch them if they stumble.

Transferring to a Chair or Wheelchair: If the patient needs to be transferred to a chair or wheelchair, the CNA can help them sit down. The CNA should position the chair or wheelchair close to the bed so that the patient does not have to take too many steps.

Transfer to Bed: When the patient is ready to be transferred back to bed, the CNA removes the transfer belt and helps them lie down. The CNA should position the bed so that it is close to the chair or wheelchair. The CNA should also ensure that the bed wheels are locked before transferring the patient.

Wash Hands:  After the transfer is complete, the CNA should wash their hands to remove any germs.

Transferring a patient using a transfer belt is a common way to ambulate a patient. By following these steps, you can ensure that the transfer is done properly and safely. Always follow your facility’s specific policies and procedures. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your supervisor.

If you want to build up your career as CNA, call us at:

CNA TRAINING INSTITUTE,INC
140 Eldridge Road # G, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Phone: (346) 812 – 0147
Phone: (281) 201 – 2678
https://cnatraininginstitute.org/

The post CNA Skill Series: Assist to Ambulate Using Transfer Belt appeared first on CNA Training in Houston | Consolidated Nurse Aide Training.

CNA Skill Series: Counting and Recording Radial Pulse

The radial pulse is the pulse felt on the wrist, on the side of the forearm nearest the thumb. The radial artery runs under the skin, and its pulsing can be felt below the surface. The radial pulse is often used to check a person’s heart rate. However, it can also be used to assess someone’s general health. In particular, the radial pulse can give clues about a person’s blood pressure and circulatory status.

The normal radial pulse rate is 60 to 100 beats per minute. A pulse that is faster than this (tachycardia) may be a sign of illness, while a pulse that is slower than this (bradycardia) may also indicate a problem.

As a CNA, you may be asked to take a person’s radial pulse. This is a relatively simple skill, but it is important to do it correctly. This article will explain how to take a radial pulse and record the findings.

 

How to Take a Radial Pulse

There are number of steps that a CNA should follow when taking a radial pulse which are as follows:

Perform the Initial Tasks: Before taking radial pulse, the CNAs need to do some initial groundwork which includes greeting the patient, explaining the procedure, maintaining privacy, and washing hands.

Locate the artery:  The radial artery can be found on the wrist, on the thumb side of the forearm. It is located just below the surface of the skin.

Place your fingers: Place your index and middle fingers on the radial artery. You should not use your thumb, as this will make it more difficult to feel the pulse.

Feel the pulse: Gently press your fingers on the radial artery until you feel a pulsing. You may have to move your fingers around until you discover the pulse.

Count the heart rate: Once you have found the pulse, count the number of beats in one minute. You can use a stopwatch or count the beats for 30 seconds and then multiply by two. If the patient’s heart rate is not regular, you may need to count for a minute.

Record the findings: Once you have taken the radial pulse, it is crucial to record the findings. This includes the heart rate and any other observations about the pulse (e.g., regularity, strength, etc.).

 

How to Record Radial Pulse Findings

When recording radial pulse findings, CNAs should include the following information:

 

Patient’s name

Date and time

Radial pulse rate (beats per minute)

Any other observations about the pulse

 

Here is an example of how this information might be recorded:

 

John Smith

5/5/2020

3:00 pm

Radial pulse: 66 beats per minute

Regular, strong pulse

 

Expert Advice

When taking the radial pulse, it is essential to use gentle pressure. If you press too hard, you may not be able to feel the pulse.

If you have difficulty finding the radial pulse, try moving your fingers around a bit. You may also want to ask the patient to take a deep breath and hold it while taking the pulse. This can help raise the wrist and make it easier to find the pulse.

If the radial pulse is not regular, you may need to count for longer. You may also want to take the pulse on the other wrist and compare the two.

Taking radial pulse is a relatively simple skill, but it is important to do it correctly. By following the steps outlined above, you can be sure that you are taking and recording radial pulse accurately. This information will be valuable to the patient’s health care team in assessing the patient’s condition.

Looking for a rewarding career as CNA? call us at:

CNA TRAINING INSTITUTE,INC
140 Eldridge Road # G, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Phone: (346) 812 – 0147
Phone: (281) 201 – 2678
https://cnatraininginstitute.org/

The post CNA Skill Series: Counting and Recording Radial Pulse appeared first on CNA Training in Houston | Consolidated Nurse Aide Training.

CNA Skill: Making An Occupied Bed

A clean and well-made bed can make a big difference in a patient’s morale. It also provides them with a sense of comfort and security. As a certified nursing assistant (CNA), you will be responsible for ensuring that your patients’ beds are made correctly and safely.

What is an Occupied Bed?

An occupied bed is a bed that a patient is currently using. It means that there are sheets and blankets on the bed, and the patient is either sitting or lying on it.

Making an occupied bed is different from making an unoccupied bed. When you are making an unoccupied bed, you will be able to strip the entire bed and start from scratch. With an occupied bed, you will need to work around the patient and their belongings. This can be more challenging, but it is still vital to ensure that the bed is clean and comfortable for the patient.

Making an occupied bed can be a bit more tricky than making an empty bed, but you’ll get the hang of it with some practice.

Making an Occupied Bed Procedure

When making an occupied bed, the nurse aide should follow some steps. There are a few things to keep in mind when making an occupied bed:

Step 1: Always wash your hands

Always wash your hands before and after making the bed. This will help to prevent the spread of infection.

Step 2: Put on gloves

You should always put on gloves before you start to make the bed. This will protect you from getting germs on your hands and clothes.

Step 3: Raise the head of the bed

Before you start to make the bed, raise the head of the bed to a comfortable position for the patient. This will make it easier for them to breathe and prevent them from getting a sore neck.

Step 4: Make sure the bed is level

Before you start to make the bed, make sure that the bed is level. It will prevent the patient from sliding down in the bed and make it easier for them to get in and out of bed.

Step 5: Put on the bed sheets

When putting on the bedsheets, make sure that the top sheet is put on first. Then, put on the bottom sheet. Ensure that the sheets are pulled tight and that there are no wrinkles.

Step 6: Tuck in the sheets

Once the sheets are on, tuck them in on all sides. Make sure that they are tucked in tight so that the patient does not accidentally pull them out while they are sleeping.

Step 7: Put on the blanket

The next step is to put on the blanket. Make sure that the blanket is smooth and that there are no wrinkles. Once the blanket is on, tuck it in on all sides.

Step 8: Smooth out the bed

Smooth out the sheets and the blanket once the bed is made. Ensure that there are no wrinkles and that the bed looks neat and tidy.

Step 9: Lower the head of the bed

Once the bed is made, lower the head of the bed to its original position.

Step 10-Remove your gloves

Once the bed is made, remove your gloves and wash your hands.

Making an occupied bed may seem like a simple task, but it is essential to do it correctly. By following these steps, you can be sure that your patients will have a comfortable and safe bed to sleep in.

If you want pursue a career as CNA, call us at:

CNA TRAINING INSTITUTE,INC
140 Eldridge Road # G, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Phone: (346) 812 – 0147
Phone: (281) 201 – 2678
https://cnatraininginstitute.org/

The post CNA Skill: Making An Occupied Bed appeared first on CNA Training in Houston | Consolidated Nurse Aide Training.

How Can I Improve My CNA Skills

A certified nursing assistant is a health care professional who provides primary nursing care to patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. The duties of a CNA include but are not limited to: bathing and grooming patients, toileting and incontinence care, transferring and ambulating patients, providing a range of motion exercises, vital signs monitoring, and feeding and nutrition assistance.

CNAs must possess a solid knowledge base to provide quality patient care. They must be able to correctly identify common medical conditions and know the appropriate interventions for each. In addition, CNAs must be able to properly communicate with both patients and other members of the health care team.

There are a few ways in which CNAs can improve their skills. Let’s point out a few:

Adapting to the Changes in Health Care

The health care industry is constantly changing. New technologies are being developed, new treatments are being discovered, and new regulations are being put into place. CNAs need to stay up-to-date on the latest changes in the field in order to provide the best possible care to their patients. One way to do this is to read industry-related news articles or attend health care conferences.

Gaining More Experience

As with most professions, the more experience a CNA has, the better they will be at their job. One way to gain more experience is to take on additional shifts or pick up extra hours. Another way to gain experience is volunteering in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. This will not only give CNAs the opportunity to gain more experience, but it will also allow them to network with other health care professionals.

Planning for Each Day

One way to be sure that you are providing the best possible care to your patients is to plan for each day. This means taking a few minutes at the beginning of your shift to review your patients’ charts and make a plan for their care. This will help you to stay organized and on track throughout your shift.

Communication is Key

CNAs must be able to effectively communicate with both patients and other members of the health care team. This includes being able to listen carefully and express oneself clearly. CNAs can improve their communication skills by taking courses or attending workshops on effective communication.

Keeping a Positive Attitude

CNAs need to maintain a positive attitude. This can be done by being friendly and upbeat, even when things are tough. CNAs can improve their people skills by taking courses on customer service or attending workshops on dealing with difficult people.

Understanding Basic Medical Terminology

CNAs will have to deal with medical terminology on a daily basis. This is why CNAs must have a strong understanding of basic medical terminology in order to provide quality care to patients and communicate with other healthcare professionals. One way to learn medical terminology is to take a CNA course or attend a workshop offered by a local hospital.

Ability to work independently and follow the Protocols

While CNAs work in a team environment most of the time, in different situations, they might have to work independently. This includes being able to take care of patients without the supervision of a nurse, following the instructions of the protocol, and knowing when to ask for help. CNAs can improve their ability to work independently by taking courses on time management or attending workshops on self-care.

Continuous Education

Even after getting the certification, the education of a CNA should not stop. CNAs will gain valuable knowledge while working on a real job. But it’s also essential to educate themselves with the latest tools, technology, and other safety tips. The employer, local community colleges, or other specialized CNA training providers offer different courses, workshops, or other educational events in many cases. By attending those events, the CNAs can continuously improve their skills and abilities.

By following these tips, CNAs can improve their skills and become better at their job. Providing quality patient care is the top priority for CNAs, and by continuously learning and improving their skills, they can make a positive difference in the lives of those they care for.

If you want a career as CNA, call us at:

CNA TRAINING INSTITUTE,INC
140 Eldridge Road # G, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Phone: (346) 812 – 0147
Phone: (281) 201 – 2678
https://cnatraininginstitute.org/

The post How Can I Improve My CNA Skills appeared first on CNA Training in Houston | Consolidated Nurse Aide Training.

Why do You Want to be a CNA – 5+ Top Reasons

Certified Nursing Assistants, more commonly known as CNAs, are always in high demand. There are many reasons for this, but the most common is that CNAs play an important role in the health care industry. They provide critical support to nurses and other medical professionals, and they often have the opportunity to interact directly with patients. This article will explore some top reasons to become a certified nursing assistant.

CNAs Are In High Demand

There is no doubt that certified nursing assistants are always in high demand. This is evident by the number of job postings that are available for CNAs, as well as the number of people who are interested in becoming CNAs. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many health care facilities are now seeking CNAs desperately. This is excellent news for those who are already certified and for those who are looking to become certified.

CNAs are the Voice of the Patients

CNAs often have the opportunity to interact directly with patients. This allows them to get to know the patients and their families personally. They can also relay important information back to the nurses and other medical professionals. This is an important role, as it allows for better communication between the health care team and the patients.

CNAs Are Important Members of the Health Care Team

CNAs play a crucial role in the health care team. They provide support to nurses and other medical professionals, and they often have the opportunity to learn new skills. This allows them to grow as professionals, allowing them to contribute to the health care industry.

CNAs Have the Opportunity to Advance their Career

Certified nursing assistants have the opportunity to advance their careers. CNAs gain transferrable skills to advance their career. This is evident by the number of CNAs who have become nurses and other medical professionals. CNAs can also move up within their own organization. This allows them to take on new challenges, allowing them to contribute more to the health care industry. The possibilities are endless for those willing to work hard and pursue their dreams.

CNAs Work in all types of healthcare fields

Certified nursing assistants can work in almost all types of healthcare fields. CNAs can work in hospitals, surgery clinics, nursery homes, Rehabilitation Centers, private clinics and many other places. This allows CNAs to have a lot of flexibility in their career.

CNAs Are Well-Paid

Due to coronavirus pandemics, there is a huge demand for CNAs now. Certified nursing assistants are well-paid. In most cases, they earn more than those who are not certified. This allows them to enjoy a good quality of life, allowing them to financially take care of their families.

CNAs Enjoy Life and Work flexibility

CNAs work on a shift basis in most cases. This means that they can work in the morning, evening or night. They can also choose to work weekends or holidays. This allows them to have a lot of flexibility regarding their work schedule. They can also take time off if they need to. This is great for those who want to enjoy a good quality of life.

CNAs provide a tremendous service, with so many options that they can fit into almost every scenario. This flexibility demonstrates the importance and impact of CNAs — millions of people receive the care they need from competent CNAs every day. Without them, many healthcare facilities wouldn’t be able to function because they would be unable to provide the same level of treatment and care we expect for ourselves and our loved ones.

If you want to become a CNA, call us at:

CNA TRAINING INSTITUTE,INC
140 Eldridge Road # G, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Phone: (346) 812 – 0147
Phone: (281) 201 – 2678
https://cnatraininginstitute.org/

The post Why do You Want to be a CNA – 5+ Top Reasons appeared first on CNA Training in Houston | Consolidated Nurse Aide Training.

Why do You Want to be a CNA – 5+ Top Reasons

Certified Nursing Assistants, more commonly known as CNAs, are always in high demand. There are many reasons for this, but the most common is that CNAs play an important role in the health care industry. They provide critical support to nurses and other medical professionals, and they often have the opportunity to interact directly with patients. This article will explore some top reasons to become a certified nursing assistant.

CNAs Are In High Demand

There is no doubt that certified nursing assistants are always in high demand. This is evident by the number of job postings that are available for CNAs, as well as the number of people who are interested in becoming CNAs. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many health care facilities are now seeking CNAs desperately. This is excellent news for those who are already certified and for those who are looking to become certified.

CNAs are the Voice of the Patients

CNAs often have the opportunity to interact directly with patients. This allows them to get to know the patients and their families personally. They can also relay important information back to the nurses and other medical professionals. This is an important role, as it allows for better communication between the health care team and the patients.

CNAs Are Important Members of the Health Care Team

CNAs play a crucial role in the health care team. They provide support to nurses and other medical professionals, and they often have the opportunity to learn new skills. This allows them to grow as professionals, allowing them to contribute to the health care industry.

CNAs Have the Opportunity to Advance their Career

Certified nursing assistants have the opportunity to advance their careers. CNAs gain transferrable skills to advance their career. This is evident by the number of CNAs who have become nurses and other medical professionals. CNAs can also move up within their own organization. This allows them to take on new challenges, allowing them to contribute more to the health care industry. The possibilities are endless for those willing to work hard and pursue their dreams.

CNAs Work in all types of healthcare fields

Certified nursing assistants can work in almost all types of healthcare fields. CNAs can work in hospitals, surgery clinics, nursery homes, Rehabilitation Centers, private clinics and many other places. This allows CNAs to have a lot of flexibility in their career.

CNAs Are Well-Paid

Due to coronavirus pandemics, there is a huge demand for CNAs now. Certified nursing assistants are well-paid. In most cases, they earn more than those who are not certified. This allows them to enjoy a good quality of life, allowing them to financially take care of their families.

CNAs Enjoy Life and Work flexibility

CNAs work on a shift basis in most cases. This means that they can work in the morning, evening or night. They can also choose to work weekends or holidays. This allows them to have a lot of flexibility regarding their work schedule. They can also take time off if they need to. This is great for those who want to enjoy a good quality of life.

CNAs provide a tremendous service, with so many options that they can fit into almost every scenario. This flexibility demonstrates the importance and impact of CNAs — millions of people receive the care they need from competent CNAs every day. Without them, many healthcare facilities wouldn’t be able to function because they would be unable to provide the same level of treatment and care we expect for ourselves and our loved ones.

If you want to become a CNA, call us at:

CNA TRAINING INSTITUTE,INC
140 Eldridge Road # G, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Phone: (346) 812 – 0147
Phone: (281) 201 – 2678
https://cnatraininginstitute.org/

The post Why do You Want to be a CNA – 5+ Top Reasons appeared first on CNA Training in Houston | Consolidated Nurse Aide Training.