NURSES: Working as a Team with Certified Nursing Assistants

Page 28 equal opportunity employment journal September 2021 People come from all over the world to study here, to practice here, and to be treated here.

People come from all over the world

to study here, to practice here, and to be treated here. Thomas Jefferson University & Jefferson Health are committed to excellence in the delivery of patient care, educating the health professionals of tomorrow and discovering new knowledge. As one of the most distinguished medical institutions in Thomas Jefferson University and Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals the country, our history is filled with outstanding people and accomplishments. Diversity, inclusion and cultural competence are critical components of our mission and we celebrate the uniqueness of each of our employees every day. are committed to excellence in the delivery of patient care, educating the health professionals of tomorrow and discovering new knowledge. As one of the most distinguished medical institutions in the country, our history is filled with outstanding people and accomplishments. Diversity, inclusion and cultural competence are critical components of our mission and we celebrate the uniqueness of each of our employees Thomas Jefferson University and Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals are committed to excellence in the delivery of patient care, educating the health professionals of tomorrow and discovering new knowledge. As one of the most distinguished medical institutions in the country, our history is filled with outstanding people and accomplishments. Diversity, inclusion and cultural competence are critical components of our mission and we celebrate the uniqueness of each of our employees To learn more about Jefferson, visit To learn more about Jefferson visit every day. www.jeffersonhr.org Recruit.jefferson.edu To learn more about Jefferson visit www.jeffersonhr.orgTo apply online visit: To apply online visit Recruit.jefferson.edu

NURSES: Working as a Team With Certified Nursing Assistants

by Carmen Morehead

Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs) are a crucial part of the healthcare team. They take vital signs, measure intake and urine output, feed and clean patients, and reposition those who require turning every two hours. Let's be honest, nurses couldn't make it through the day without them. There are unfortunately times when CNAs feel undervalued. Dynamics fostering division between the nurse and the nurse assistant unfortunately cloud work relationships. These divisions mirror the difference between the doctor and the nurse. It is important to recognize that the CNA is not subordinate to the nurse and that teamwork is facilitated through good communication. Here are four guidelines for creating a positive work environment with nursing assistants: 1. Let Yourself Be Taught It is never appropriate to look down on a nurse assistant. Despite your education as an RN, you may not have the same level of patient care experience as a nurse assistant. Even if you are an experienced RN moving to a new area, the nursing assistant will be able to help you adjust to caring for that particular patient population. Make it a habit to ask questions and seek the input of the CNA, empowering them to teach you. This will establish a strong foundation for your professional relationship and make everyone feel valued. 2. Always Ask, Never Demand

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I think it is worth stating again: the nursing assistant does not work for the nurse. Ask politely for help: "Do you mind helping Mr. Thomas to the bathroom?" Please don't ever ask a CNA to do a task for you when you are sitting at the desk on your phone. It makes you appear lazy, and they will be less