Nursing home assistants need the proper training to ensure that they have long-term success in their career. The nursing industry has traditionally been a high-demand profession. Unfortunately, nurses and caregivers are always in short supply. Understaffing becomes an issue because of short supply.
Procedural errors and omissions are inevitable, given the lack of qualified nurses in many sectors. Thus, injuries, accidents, and malpractice claims become more common. However, it also places a significant burden on nursing home insurance.
The COVID-19 pandemic has compounded matters. More than two years after COVID made headlines, it is still a significant healthcare concern that burdens the medical care industry. Therefore, it also drives the high demand for nursing professionals.
Training New Certified Nurse Aides (CNA)
One possible solution to ease the pressure is to renew efforts to train new nursing assistants. Arnot Health is at the forefront of such initiatives, having partnered with Corning Community College to develop a new free nurses training program. Consequently, the goal is to train new Certified Nurse Aides (CNA) to meet the constantly growing demand.
According to Arnot Health, this isn’t just like any other nurses’ training program. Candidates who attend will earn money. In addition to that, they have the opportunity to work with the environmental services team at Ira Davenport Memorial Hospital (IDMH).
The training program is scheduled over five weeks and will occur at Corning’s Health Education Center. At the end of the training, attendees will take a certification exam. When they complete the exam, it will serve as their qualification to work in IDMH as CNAs.
CNA Roles and Responsibilities
CNAs or Certified Nurse Aides assist primary caregivers in caring for nursing home residents. They perform a variety of duties, including:
- Helping with food and medicine
- Transporting residents
- Cleaning and tidying residents’ rooms
- Organizing panties, utilities and equipment
Becoming a CNA is an excellent start to a rewarding career as a nurse or other healthcare worker. Elizabeth Weir (MSN, RN) is the Director of Nursing Services at Unity Health System. She noted that CNAs have numerous opportunities for advancement. Additionally, Weir highlighted that they are on the fast track to master bedside care.
Training recommendations for Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have a significant role in training new nursing home assistants. Following these suggestions could help ensure the availability of better-qualified care personnel:
Reevaluate Existing Training Programs
Existing nurses’ assistant training programs tend to vary considerably. While some require only 75 hours of pre-certification training, others need as much as 150 hours. Therefore, performing an evaluation will help determine the effectiveness of these programs.
Increase Training Hours for CNAs
CNA training programs generally require more extended hours to be more beneficial. Many trainers and providers suggest that candidates undergo at least 160 hours of initial training. Consequently, this is important because it helps them learn the essential skills necessary to handle their profession’s physical and emotional requirements.
Training Recommendations for Nursing Facilities
Nursing homes and care facilities should also ensure the availability of qualified new nursing home assistants to meet the growing demand.
Develop Stronger Connections Between Nursing Homes and Community-Based Trainers
Enhancing the relationship between care facilities and local training centers will benefit all stakeholders. Accordingly, effective strategies include providing access to nursing homes, community colleges, the Red Cross, and other community-based training organizations.
Include Local Providers in the Process
Training programs held outside nursing care facilities should include local trainers. Outside providers should contribute to the design and implementation of the program and monitor its progress.
Adopt the “Pioneer” Training Method
The Pioneer Network is currently at the forefront of initiatives to improve the aging culture in the United States. Forthwith, by emphasizing the value of individuals and their relationships, the national organization hopes to instill a culture of retention in the nurses’ training sector.
About Caitlin Morgan
Caitlin Morgan specializes in insuring assisted living facilities and nursing homes and can assist you in providing insurance and risk management services for this niche market. Give us a call to learn more about our programs at (877) 226-1027.