CNA TIP OF THE WEEK:

The CNA Code of Ethics is a guide for the ethical and proper care of patients and our employer.  Patients, co-workers, and employers depend on CNA’s to always perform their job to the highest standards.  These standards are based on a series of guidelines that every CNA should use in the performance of their job.  This area is so important to the career of a CNA that we will address it for two (2) weeks.  This week we address the first three guidelines in the CNA Code of Ethics: 

• Patient Care – always give care at the same high level to all patients regardless of their medical condition, age, sex, race or religion.  Every day the CNA should work to improve a patient’s health, extend their life, and ease their pain and suffering – always working as instructed by the individual patient’s healthcare treatment plan.  In addition to medical needs, the CNA needs to be prepared to address the social, physical, emotional, and spirituals needs of their patients.
• Personal Presentation – the CNA’s personal presentation is the way we are viewed by patients, co-workers and our employer everyday.  The CNA should always be sure that their personal hygiene and grooming is at a high level.  Clothing should always be clean, neat, and appropriate in fit and style.  And, facial expressions and demeanor should always be friendly and comforting to patients, as well as, all those that we come in contact with everyday.
• Technically Prepared – the CNA training does not end on graduation and certification by the Georgia CNA Registry.  The CNA should work everyday to improve their technical skills.  In-service training should be completed with enthusiasm and attention to detail to assure that all technical skill levels remain current with healthcare changes.  The CNA should never try to perform a task or a procedure that they are not qualified to perform, asking for assistance or training as appropriate.   

As a Reminder – the CNA that always follows the CNA Code of Ethics assures that their patients consistently receive the best care possible.  Any breech of this CNA Code of Ethics should be reported to supervision immediately.  Your patient’s care depends you!