1 Compassionate: A compassionate CNA is valuable. She respects what her residents/patients are experiencing; she has a knack for knowing what to say, just when to say it too! She advocates for her patients/residents- she gives detailed reports and updates to the nurses on changes in condition.
2 Patient: This CNA does not allow her job demands to get in the way of resident care. She does not **do** the tasks for the residents in order to get it done quicker; she encourages her residents to take their time with tasks. This CNA does not rush her residents thru meals and toileting.
3 Work-oriented: The CNA who loves his job is evident to all. This aide rarely uses her cell phone while working; when this aide arrives at work, she is ready to work; she focuses on her assignment and residents; she has little time for small talk.
4 Enthusiastic: The CNA who is upbeat and positive is rare. He will have a “Let’s get this done” attitude with a smile. He will not let others’ emotions and negativity affect his day.
5 Reliable: A reliable aide is one who shows up for work, on time. She gets her assignments completed in a timely manner and importantly, residents have become comfortable knowing this aide will take good care of them.
6 Punctual: On time, every time. Whether it’s arrival time for work, or getting residents to activities and meals, the punctual aide is an asset.
7 Hard-working: The hard work CNA’s do is what we are (in)famous for. A well respected CNA isn’t afraid of this work- she doesn’t mind all the lifting, pulling, tugging and moving. She won’t complain when she misses a break occasionally. She will offer to work an extra shift to cover a call out. She doesn’t blink when confronted with confused and scared residents with Alzheimer’s Disease.
8 Flexible: One of the truly most important traits of a good aide is whether he/she is flexible…flexible to float to other units, to swap out shifts to cover openings, to swap assignments when needed…to help a co worker who is running behind.
9 Self-disciplined: It’s getting harder and harder to find nurses and aides who are more in tune with their residents then themselves. Self discipline relates to one’s ability to maintain control of their emotions and feelings. It also relates to staying totally professional when at work. Not too many aides can do this these days. The skills needed however, can be taught and modeled.
10 Focused: Are you totally, 100% focused on your residents and their needs? Do you plan your assignment to fulfill resident desires and ensure you schedule enough time for each resident? Do you carry your cell phone with you? Do you get caught up day dreaming? Do you tend to get involved with other aides’ problems and gossip? The answers should be YES, YES, NO, NO and NO.