Be In the Know!

Chances are, you have presented inservices to your CNAs on the typical topics: standard precautions, confidentiality, nutrition, pain management and dementia. Without question, these are all necessary inservices for nursing assistants.

However, to develop a team of top-notch CNAs, it’s important to go beyond what is necessary or mandated. Coming up with pertinent topics can be a challenge when you’re trying to fit inservice education into your already busy schedule. Here are 5 ideas for inservices that will get your nursing assistants thinking outside the box—and, in turn, have a real impact on the quality of their client care.

1.  Teach Your CNAs about Being Assertive

Why?  Because top-notch CNAs are assertive people. They understand the difference between communicating passively, aggressively and assertively. They use their assertiveness skills to deal with difficult people and challenging situations. And, because they respect the rights of others without ignoring their own rights, they are excellent team players. Consider presenting an inservice that includes a “personal assertiveness assessment” so that your nurse aides can gauge their current communication style.

2.  Examine Conflict in the Workplace

On-the-job conflict exists in every health care organization, so how about teaching your CNAs how to deal with it? Provide them with practical tips for resolving conflict. Be sure to cover the dangers of gossip and bullying in the workplace and how they can handle conflicts with supervisors and clients. Armed with this information, your CNAs will focus less on “workplace politics” and more on the needs of their clients.

3.  Discuss Maintaining a Professional Distance

One of the toughest things for anyone in nursing is to provide TLC to clients without overstepping professional boundaries. A top-notch CNA knows the difference between personal and professional relationships and can spot the warning signs that professional distance has been lost. Giving an inservice on this issue will help your nursing assistants be caring without veering from the plan of care.

4.  Promote the CNA/Nurse Relationship

In the same way that the relationship between nurses and physicians continues to evolve, so does the relationship between nurses and nursing assistants. Outstanding CNAs understand the importance of delegation, assertive communication and mutual respect. They know how to give a great report, how to make the most of their performance review and how to work together with nurses as a team. Consider presenting this information to your CNAs and your nurses for a real boost to nursing teamwork.

5.  Practice Time Management Skills

Why are some CNAs better than others at completing their work on time? Nursing assistants who strive for excellence have learned how to avoid time wasters like procrastination, a lack of focus and a negative attitude. Help your CNAs become time savers by teaching them about setting goals and priorities and providing them with practical tips that help them work efficiently—whether they work in a facility or in clients’ homes.

Try incorporating a few of these topics into your current inservice schedule and see what happens.  (If you’d rather not “reinvent the wheel”, give us a call at 877-809-5515 or visit our store.  We have inservices on all of the above topics.)  Remember…when inservice education goes above and beyond the norm, it spurs critical thinking, enhances the quality of client care, and encourages professionalism on the part of your aides.

Happy Teaching!

Linda

Linda Leekley BS, RN

Today, you can read about our final group of nursing assistants who were selected by their supervisors and all of us at In the Know to be honored for being outstanding on the job:

Miranda M., who is a real team player at Dependable Home Healthcare in Martinsville, Virginia

Linda L., a top-notch CNA at Carolinas Medical Center-Union in Monroe, North Carolina

Josephine A., a real star at Good Samaritan Lutheran Health Care Center in Delmar, New York

Nita W., who believes in the mission of the Area Agency on Aging of West Central Arkansas in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Marie S., who excels at her job at the Jerome Home in New Britain, Connecticut

Supervisor, Fiana P., told us that she is so glad to have Miranda on her team. She has been able to please some of their most challenging clients. The agency stands by its name, Dependable Home Healthcare, and Miranda is ALWAYS dependable! Miranda has chosen a career as a nursing assistant, but it’s obvious that nursing is in her heart.

At CMC-Union, Kathleen R. reported that Linda is an extraordinary person. She is always so friendly and courteous to both patients and staff. Linda is always willing to help. She has been working for the hospital for a long time and knows everyone. You can always expect a lift in your spirits when you see her in the hall. Linda’s patient care is outstanding!

Supervisor, Marjorie H., told us that Josephine is always doing all the little extra things that make a resident’s day. The residents confide in her; if they are grieving, she cries right along with them. And, if they need a “lift”, all she has to do is show them her beautiful smile. Josephine’s co-workers are all glad that she is part of their team!

Missy M., Director of Health Services, reported that Nita has been working with their Agency for many years. Even though she has since earned her LPN degree, Nita continues to work full-time as a CNA because she believes in the mission of the Agency to help seniors lead independent, meaningful and dignified lives. Nita sees clients in their homes on a daily basis and always goes above and beyond to see their needs are met. She is the eyes and ears of the Agency and they feel so lucky to have her. The quality of their clients’ lives is so much better because Nita is looking after them!

At the Jerome Home, Kathy F. told us that Marie is an outstanding CNA. She works the 3-11 shift on their dementia unit. Marie is faced with challenging behaviors every day. She has learned to respond with a caring tone–which is sometimes all that is needed. Marie is always striving to improve her education and skills by participating in many of the classes offered at her facility. Recently, she was selected to take part in a phlebotomy training class so that she can draw blood as needed for her residents. Marie is a star employee!

We also send special recognition to all the CNAs at Washington County Hospital in Nashville, Illinois. Your supervisor, Clara S., told us that she is fortunate enough to have outstanding CNAs on every shift…and there was no way she could nominate just one. So, congratulations to all of you!

WOW! Such amazing stories of personal and professional growth! We send a big thank you…to Miranda, Linda, Josephine, Nita, Marie and all the thousands and thousands of other hardworking CNAs who bring so much of themselves to their jobs!

CONGRATULATIONS from the Team at In the Know!

Here is another group of outstanding nursing assistants who were selected by their supervisors and all of us at In the Know to be honored for their professionalism:

Kathy H., who loves working on the Skilled Nursing Unit at The Northwest Florida Community Hospital in Chipley, Florida.

Deborah A., an enthusiastic CNA at St. Peter’s Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Albany, New York

Tywand V., who treats her residents with love at Rockynol Retirement Community in Akron, Ohio

Antonia Z., who goes above and beyond at Gulfside Regional Hospice in New Port Richey, Florida

Vera O., who is a pleasure to work with at Mayview Convalescent Center in Raleigh, North Carolina

Kathy’s supervisor, Diana F., told us that Kathy goes above and beyond every day at work. She takes pride in her work and all her coworkers appreciate her. The residents love her, too, and she really cares about them. Kathy spends time listening to and talking with them. She comes in early, stays late and comes in on her scheduled days off if the unit is short. Her cheerful demeanor and smiling face play a part in making the unit warm and homelike. Kathy is a big part of why the residents enjoy living at NFCH!

Supervisor Stephanie G. bragged to us that Deborah always seems to have a smile on her face. She is enthusiastic and energetic while at work. Many patients have commented on how nice she is to them. Deborah is always available to lend a helping hand and does it with a true concern for all involved. If Stephanie were a patient, she says she would want Deborah to take care of her! Deborah has a very demanding job but she always acts like a true professional.

Tracey N. believes that Tywand exemplifies the words “top notch” every day in her work. She also exemplifies the mission statement of her workplace. Tywand has been a nursing assistant at Rockynol for 5 years. She started as a floor CNA and is now the scheduler for the entire nursing department. Even though her main duty is scheduling the staff, Tywand continues to make the residents a priority throughout her day. Regardless of her own work, if a resident has a need, she is out there meeting it! She truly loves all of the residents and her daily actions demonstrate this. The residents love Tywand’s caring attitude and all her coworkers respect her hard work and dedication.

At Gulfside Regional Hospice, supervisor Sheilah R. told us that Antonia concentrates on making her dying clients comfortable, improving their quality of life and providing opportunities for them to meet final life goals. Antonia is a professional, empathetic, responsive communicator who facilitiates hope and exhibits a non-judgmental attitude in her care of both patients and their families. She achieved CHPNA status by passing the Hospice and Palliative Care Certification Exam. Antonia demonstrates excellent customer service and is loved and respected by her patients, families and coworkers.

Supervisor Ellen J. told us that Vera is a CNA of few words but her actions show genuine concern for her residents. She has a keen eye for knowing when something is wrong with them and has no problem informing the nurse. Ellen appreciates having Vera on her team and says she is a pleasure to work with. She communicates assertively and respectfully. And, she is a team player. For example, she is the first one to start passing trays at meal time…not just to her residents, but to all the residents. Vera knows what needs doing and she does it so well!

There is nothing to say but WOW! And, thank you…to Kathy, Deborah, Tywand, Antonia, Vera and all the other dedicated, hardworking CNAs who make such a difference in the lives of their clients.

CONGRATULATIONS from the Team at In the Know!

Isn’t it wonderful to read the personal stories of so many top-notch CNAs? Here are a few more nursing assistants who are, without a doubt, role models at their workplaces. They were selected by their supervisors and all of us at In the Know to be honored as outstanding CNAs:

Terri J., who is a star employee at First Care Health Services in South Boston, Virginia

Amber P., a dedicated CNA at Mobility Training and Independent Living Program in Madison, Wisconsin

Mari Beth H., a new CNA at Home Therapy of Austin in Austin, Texas

Carla C., who makes her supervisor proud at Pontotoc Nursing Home in Pontotoc, Mississippi

Cosmos A., who brings his unique perspective to Mother Angeline McCrory Manor in Columbus, Ohio

Supervisor, Teresa H., told us that Terri has worked at their organization for more than six years. She is loved and respected by her clients and co-workers. Whenever she has a client go into the hospital, she will call and/or visit them. Her clients sing her praises and never want to be discharged from her services. When Terri isn’t busy seeing clients, she is always assisting in the office with filing, faxing, copying or answering the phone. She is also in college part-time, taking classes to expand her career. Terri is definitely an asset to her organization!

At MTILP, Joan F. reported that Amber has been a dedicated employee for 7 years. She takes her work responsibilities very seriously, always looking out for the health and safety of their most physically challenged clients. She is also responsible for training new CNAs as well as overseeing the day-to-day personal care of the 24 clients that attend the MTILP program. Amber is a great example of an outstanding CNA!

Supervisor, Karen O., told us that Mari Beth is a new graduate of CNA school. Being a CNA is her second career after spending years working for the state. Although she is a new grad, Mari Beth has years of life experience which make her such an empathetic caregiver. Her nail care is so great that the patients look like they’ve been to the salon. And, she takes such care and time with her Alzheimer’s patient that the patient is often laughing and is so cooperative. Mari Beth is a real stand out at her workplace!

Kimberly G. reported that Carla is the best CNA she has ever worked with. She cares about her residents as if they were family. Carla goes beyond the Golden Rule, treating each resident the way she would want her own mother to be treated. Carla makes sure their makeup is on and their hair is fixed. If a resident is worried or scared, she takes her time and doesn’t rush. Carla goes above and beyond every day with her gentle touch and kind ways.

Supervisor, Susan C., told us that Cosmos is one of the most unique and caring STNAs she has ever met. His personality is outgoing and compassionate. When she needs someone to work another floor, he readily volunteers to go. If she needs someone to come in to cover a shift, he often volunteers for that, too. The job never seems to be a burden to him. Once, Cosmos initiated a wheelchair change for a resident because the resident looked uncomfortable in the current wheelchair. He pays attention to details and sees to the comfort and care of the residents with smiles and laughter. Cosmos is a top-notch STNA every day.

We also send a special “shout out” to Chastity B. in Cheyenne, Wyoming, who personalizes her client care by getting to know and treating each client as an individual. Way to go!

All of you deserve three big cheers! And, a big thank you…to Terri, Amber, Mari Beth, Carla, Cosmos and all the other devoted CNAs who go above and beyond every single day!

CONGRATULATIONS from the Team at In the Know!

Please take a few minutes to read about these top-notch nursing assistants who were selected by their supervisors and all of us at In the Know to be honored for their dedication to their jobs…and to lifelong learning:

Donna V., who demonstrates professionalism daily at Holland Hospital Home Health Services in Holland, Michigan.

Demetria P., an outstanding CNA at AseraCare Hospice in Atlanta, Georgia

Melinda W., a long time employee of Windsor Woods in Hudson, Florida

Kathy R., who loves her patients at Legend Oaks HealthCare & Rehab in Gladewater, Texas

David C., who goes above and beyond at Home Health Works in Clearwater, Florida

Supervisor, Jane A., told us that Donna has worked at their agency for almost ten years. Every patient loves her as she goes beyond their expectations of service every day! Donna is willing to work any time of day, drive any distance and work with any personality type. Her documentation is turned in on time and is perfectly done. She is anxious to increase her skills and takes advantage of additional education offerings. She has also served on many committees throughout her years with Holland Hospital Home Health Services. Donna is, without question, an outstanding aide!

At AseraCare Hospice, Margot M. reported that Demetria is very thorough and kind. Her supervisors know when Demetria has seen her patients because they look so great and are so content. Demetria is well-liked, very professional and performs her work with minimal supervision. It is obvious that she loves her job! She is a blessing to the patients and families and an asset to her workplace. Margot is very proud of Demetria and feels blessed to have her on her team. Demetria is a fast learner and is always eager to incorporate new ways into her regular routines.

Supervisor, Sharon T., told us that Melinda has been a CNA at Windsor Woods for many years. She takes excellent care of her residents and goes above and beyond to provide quality care to each of them. Melinda is well-acquainted with her residents and is able to cue new staff and nurses to better meet the residents’ needs. She provides care in a loving and respectful manner and is never cross or in a bad mood. Melinda goes out of her way to assist everyone and participates on several committees. She is the best person to serve as a preceptor to new staff members because she does not hesitate to teach, nurture and demonstrate how a top-notch CNA should perform. Without Melinda, the facility would not be the same!

Lori L. reported that Kathy is a CNA that any organization would be proud to have as part of their team. Kathy never calls in, spends her entire shift working her floor, loves her patients and is often requested by name by family members. She has worked at Legend Oaks for more than 13 years. Kathy works from 10pm to 6am while the patients sleep, but they sleep better just knowing she is there. She spends her entire 8 hours on the floor. Kathy fluffs and folds, pampers, lotions feet, offers water and provides comfort to those who can’t sleep. Kathy is truly a CNA who patients rise up and call blessed.

At Home Health Works, Carol G. told us that David lives up to their motto: “Caring for people like family”. David goes above and beyond, providing not only personal care and help with ADLs, but dealing with things that most aides don’t think they can do anything about. He’s very attentive to prescribed diets and always makes sure to prepare a fresh meal, even sharing fresh items from his garden! In addition, Dave is great at finding inexpensive or free items for his clients, such as walkers or exercise bicycles…all to enable their increased mobility and/or safety. Dave reports changes in his clients’ physical condition, mental status and living situation so that the agency can make the appropriate referrals. David is a star at his workplace!

All of you deserve a standing ovation! And, a big thank you…to Donna, Demetria, Melinda, Kathy, David and all the other dedicated, hardworking CNAs who make the choice every day to be outstanding!

CONGRATULATIONS from the Team at In the Know!

The following five nursing assistants were selected by their supervisors and all of us at In the Know to be honored for their dedication and hard work:

Isatou C., who works tirelessly at Andelcare in Bellevue, Washington

Renee B., a star employee of Meadowview in Northfield, New Jersey

Jodie P., who loves her residents at Haines City Health Care in Haines City, Florida

Lorna W., who started a new career for herself at Providence at Home in Zeeland, Michigan

Joan B., a dedicated CNA at Grace Home Health Care in Knoxville, Iowa

Isatou’s supervisor, Karen G.-R., told us that she was hired as a live-in caregiver for a woman with dementia. The client loved Isatou, but her husband didn’t like having a caregiver in his home. He was very gruff and sometimes combative. Karen said that within a short time, Isatou worked her magic and now, after the death of his wife, the husband is Isatou’s client. She stays by his side, does his personal care and takes him on outings most every day. Isatou is dedicated, trustworthy and oh so caring.

Nursing supervisor, Elsa S., told us that Renee is a dedicated CNA who is always ready to step up to the plate and do more than asked of her. Her residents depend on her and she is a great team player. Even when times are tough, Renee will volunteer to come in. She braves any storm and always picks up the slack. At times, she has had to make tough decisions about reporting her peers, but stands up for the residents with quiet courage. Renee is a loyal employee who deserves to be recognized.

Sandy K. believes that Jodie is a very special nursing assistant who always finds a way to spend extra time with her residents on a daily basis. Whether she walks them outside, plays a card game or reads letters to them, she is always there for her residents–far and above simply providing ADLs. Jodie always assists other nursing assistants who get behind in their work. She is a team player and never speaks harshly about any of her coworkers. She is an excellent mentor to new hires because when they learn from her, they learn the right way to do their job. Jodie always has a smile and a hug for everyone!

At Providence at Home, supervisor Lynn B. told us that Lorna has been working for them for 11 years. Prior to that, she was a housewife who had not been employed outside the home. Lorna was driven by her love of the elderly. She took the CNA class and exams, and, throughout the years, has advanced to the lead aide position on second shift. In addition, she does the HR training and education at her workplace. She is always willing to lend a hand and go that extra mile. As Lynn said, Lorna is truly a shining star in their organization.

Supervisor Ranae A. told us that Joan is her top-notch CNA. She is dedicated, faithful, caring and very dependable. Joan puts her heart and soul into her work. She is a very knowledgeable CNA who takes her job very seriously and loves every minute of it. She is especially kind with children. She has a very sick little client and Joan takes extra steps to ensure that he is safe and happy. Joan works extra shifts if needed and has never complained about it. During inservices, she always has something constructive to add to the discussion. Joan is very organized and strives to achieve greatness on a daily basis.

What can we say but WOW! And, thank you…to Isatou, Renee, Jodie, Lorna, Joan and all the other dedicated, hardworking CNAs who have followed a calling to work in health care. Our hats are indeed off to all of you.

CONGRATULATIONS from the Team at In the Know!