Overview
This lecture introduced the structure and expectations of the CNA program, emphasizing the critical nature of care plans, CNA roles, key principles, and preparation for the state exam.
Course Organization and Housekeeping
- Verify your name and email address on the class list for communication.
- Classroom rules: use the designated exit, bathroom location, eat/drink allowed (clean up), cell phones on vibrate or off.
- Main textbook (spiral book) is yours to write in; the yellow book is for homework only and must be returned.
Introduction to the CNA Role
- CNA stands for Certified Nursing Assistant; the role is to assist nurses and follow their directions.
- CNAs perform routine tasks for stable patients according to the care plan.
- Only perform tasks you are trained to do; never perform unfamiliar procedures without asking for help.
- Major responsibility is to make and report observations to the nurse.
The Care Plan
- The RN assesses patients and creates individualized care plans outlining all necessary tasks.
- CNAs must follow the care plan exactly and report any issues or refusal by patients.
- Never decide on extra steps or change tasks independently; report all changes or concerns to the nurse.
- The care plan may change as patient needs change.
Key Principles & Scope of Practice
- 11 principles guide all CNA skills; these will be learned and applied throughout the course.
- Scope of Practice: defined by law and employer policy; only perform routine, delegated tasks on stable patients.
- The five key phrases: follow the care plan, do normal tasks, use principles for performance, focus on the patient, report all observations.
The State Exam Structure
- The exam has two parts: a written multiple-choice test (60 questions, 90 minutes) and a clinical skills test (3 randomly assigned skills).
- Skills tested are based on following care plans, correct procedures, and reporting.
- Skills are graded via checklists, with critical steps weighted more heavily; some errors may result in automatic failure.
- Practice using actual care plans and checklists; corrections can be made during the test before declaring the skill finished.
Core Skill Procedures: Opening and Closing
- Opening: Read care plan, knock, greet patient by name, introduce yourself, explain task, ask for permission, close curtain, wash hands, gather supplies.
- Closing: Ensure cleanliness, environment safety, patient comfort, call light in reach, open curtain, offer item (e.g., magazine), clean hands, chart if needed.
Infection Control and Handwashing
- Handwashing is required before and after patient contact or procedures.
- Wash hands for at least 20 seconds, clean all surfaces, and avoid recontamination by using a paper towel to turn off faucet.
Patient Rights and Indirect Care
- Residents have rights: dignity, respect, communication, religious practice, free from restraints/abuse, etc.
- Indirect care includes body language, tone, explanations, and treating patients as you would want to be treated.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Care Plan — A written plan created by an RN listing all patient care tasks for the team.
- Scope of Practice — Legal and employer-defined tasks CNAs are allowed to perform.
- ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) — Basic tasks (bathing, dressing, eating, etc.) supported by CNAs.
- Observations — Noticing and reporting any changes in the patient’s condition to the nurse.
- Opening/Closing — Standardized procedures to begin/end patient care skills.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Read Chapter 1 (pages 1–20) in the yellow book (homework).
- Complete and grade the test on page 181 of the spiral book; bring your score to class.
- Practice the “opening” steps aloud at home.
- Review the care plan procedures and handwashing steps before next class.
- Print or access review sheets from flcntraining.com if needed.
- Plan to attend CPR class if you need certification for future employment.