As America’s population continues to age, more healthy older adults will be checking out independent living, those with few care needs may turn to assisted living, and those with several chronic health conditions may require skilled nursing homes. Even those wishing to remain at home may need the assistance of nursing assistants. And eventually, some will seek out end-of-life care. In each of these scenarios, nursing assistants make up an army of caregivers, both now and in the future. What we need are great nursing assistants to care for older adults wherever they may reside.
The Importance of Nursing Assistants
A good nursing assistant is worth his or her weight in gold. I’ve heard this many times throughout my long career and I believe it. My mother was a great nursing assistant for 30 years in the same skilled nursing homes. Nursing assistants are essential to any team providing care to older adults. They are, in fact, the frontline providers of care and spend more time with residents than any other healthcare professional. This makes them uniquely aware of any physical, mental or cognitive changes the resident may be exhibiting.
Costs and Rewards
A career as a professional nursing assistant, either as an STNA or CNA, can be very rewarding for those who possess the desire to help others. Great nursing assistants have compassion and patience. They become the eyes, ears and sometimes the hands of those who need their help the most. Being a nursing assistant can also be physically and emotionally demanding, and many face stress on a daily basis. The pace of work is usually fast, days go by pretty quickly and I’ve never heard a nursing assistant complain of boredom.
If You’re Going to Be a Nursing Assistant, Be the Best
It takes a special person with certain skill sets and abilities to become a good nursing assistant. It also takes a big heart. Not everyone is cut out to be a nursing assistant and that’s ok. So, what does it take to be the best nursing assistant?
Top Qualities of the Best Nursing Assistant
Knowledge
Excellence in training, continuing education, and learning on-the-job are essential for any nursing assistant. Become a life-long learner, become wiser through experience and take in as much as you can about your career choice.
Patience
Working with seniors and older adults who have physical, emotional and cognitive conditions is not easy. There will be very trying days ahead, so a great nursing assistant knows that everything passes and values the gift of patience.
Time Management
Great nursing assistants constantly multi-task and must pay attention to many things at once. Time can pass by with many tasks undone unless you learn how to best use the 8 or more hours on your shift in the most efficient ways. Being organized and having a plan can help with time management.
Good Listening, Observational and Communication Skills
These are the Holy Trinity of being a great nursing assistant. You have to listen to your residents, their family members and your team in order to deliver the best care. You also have to keep your eyes open to any changes that may be taking place with your resident. And, communicating accurately what you hear and see is a no-brainer.
Good Physical and Mental Health
You have to be strong and physically fit to move and lift residents throughout the day. Mental stability is also a must, because there will be stressful shifts. Nursing assistants may be particularly vulnerable to burnout.
Ability to Work Independently and with a Team
Flexibility is key because there will be days when you are working alone and others when your team will work side-by-side with you. Teamwork is a great time to show your passion and cooperation and to stand out as a leader.
Optimism
The best nursing assistants are those who see their work as rewarding and fulfilling and the glass as half full. They possess the mature mindset that no storm lasts forever and seek the silver lining. They remain positive even when the going gets rough.
Respect and Empathy
These two qualities set good nursing assistants apart from great ones. They have a profound respect for human life. They love the seniors they care for. It’s not a job that just earns them a paycheck but much more. Also, they don’t feel sorry for those they care for but they show understanding and kindness.
Know When to Take a Break
Even the best healthcare professionals get tired, run down, and sometimes experience burnout. It’s essential to not only observe changes in your residents, but to be aware of your own physical, mental, and spiritual health. Staying healthy puts you in a better position to provide the best care and become the best nursing assistant.