No matter what state you are seeking your CNA training in by the time you get your CNA certification you must have mastered the same set of basic core skills and knowledge. This includes human anatomy, body mechanics, activities that often involved assistance, behavioral patterns, nutrition, and infection control measures.
Human anatomy knowledge is focused on normal verses abnormal function and how to spot those changes in individuals that might not express pain or discomfort. Some basic areas that are important to know well include taking measurements of blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate and volumes, in addition to knowing what normal parameters are for those figures, not only for the individual patient but in general. Someone working with the elderly might also have to watch for mobility issues that can indicate fractures and other problems.
Body mechanics is the area that teaches how to lift and position both self and patient to avoid injury or causing harm during moving an individual. Many times lifting safety is highlighted as a vital thing to know, considering that a nursing assistant may have to performing such lifts many times each day. Included in this is knowledge of mechanical aids used for moving patients also.
Daily living is the hands on ability to help patients walk (ambulation), use the bathroom (and take samples as required by the medical regime they are on) and groom them or help them groom themselves. It may require bathing helpless individuals, feeding them, or learning individual special needs as required.
Human anatomy knowledge is focused on normal verses abnormal function and how to spot those changes in individuals that might not express pain or discomfort. Some basic areas that are important to know well include taking measurements of blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate and volumes, in addition to knowing what normal parameters are for those figures, not only for the individual patient but in general. Someone working with the elderly might also have to watch for mobility issues that can indicate fractures and other problems.
Body mechanics is the area that teaches how to lift and position both self and patient to avoid injury or causing harm during moving an individual. Many times lifting safety is highlighted as a vital thing to know, considering that a nursing assistant may have to performing such lifts many times each day. Included in this is knowledge of mechanical aids used for moving patients also.
Daily living is the hands on ability to help patients walk (ambulation), use the bathroom (and take samples as required by the medical regime they are on) and groom them or help them groom themselves. It may require bathing helpless individuals, feeding them, or learning individual special needs as required.
Dealing with those who are sick or coping with aging, disability, or mental issues requires knowing about human behavior and possible changes that these conditions create. Knowing what can be done to make a patient feel better, reduce negative or painful stresses, and raise the quality of life is very important. Part of this is knowing what acute care patients rights are and how the respect those rights when the patient might be unaware of them.
Nutrition is a vital component of long term health. Because the certified nursing assistant may be required to feed and care for individuals with specific health needs, a CNA must have a good foundational knowledge in nutrition. Some diseases and conditions that are treatable through diet include diabetes, kidney disease, congestive heart failure and renal conditions, among others. Knowing what types of foods are correct for each condition is critical for patient health.
One final thing that CNA training must teach before cna certification can be granted is infection control. Not only does this include environmental and personal cleanliness, but it addresses personal safety around pathogens and steps that must be taken to reduce spread of disease among those in close quarters.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elijah_James
