Certified Nursing Assistant or Nursing Assistant (Days) - Oncology ICU

At Nebraska Medicine, a Certified Nursing Assistant or Nursing Assistant plays a crucial role in the Oncology ICU by performing delegated patient activities that align with each patient's care plan. Responsibilities include assisting with daily activities, ensuring patient comfort, monitoring vital signs, and providing emotional support to patients and their families. Your contributions significantly impact patient outcomes and well-being during critical times.

To qualify as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Nebraska Medicine, you must be at least 16 years old, possess a CNA certification in Nebraska, and hold a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from an AHA endorsed program. If you are applying for the Nursing Assistant role, you must be at least 18, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have some patient care experience or be enrolled in a nursing program.

While there are some required qualifications, Nebraska Medicine values additional skills for Nursing Assistants, such as direct patient care experience, knowledge of computer data entry, and familiarity with medical terminology. Possessing these skills can enhance your effectiveness in the role and contribute positively to the care team and patient experience.

As a Certified Nursing Assistant or Nursing Assistant in the Oncology ICU at Nebraska Medicine, you can expect to work first shift hours. This schedule provides the opportunity to collaborate closely with nursing staff and healthcare professionals while ensuring that patients receive timely and compassionate care during the day.

Nebraska Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package for Certified Nursing Assistants and Nursing Assistants that includes competitive salaries, retirement plan contributions, ample PTO accrual, and tuition reimbursement. Additionally, being part of a top-ranked employer allows for growth, support, and a commitment to the health and well-being of employees.

In stressful situations, I focus on maintaining a calm demeanor and prioritize tasks based on patient needs. I communicate effectively with my team, ensure I follow protocols, and keep patients informed to alleviate any anxiety they may feel. Staying organized and composed is key to providing the best care possible.

I have hands-on experience assisting with basic patient care activities such as bathing, grooming, and documenting vital signs. My role involved collaborating with nursing staff to provide personalized care and addressing patient concerns effectively to create a comfortable environment.

I have always had a passion for helping others and healthcare. Pursuing a career as a Nursing Assistant allows me to play a direct role in patient care, support individuals during vulnerable times, and be part of an incredible team making a difference in people's lives.

To ensure patient safety, I adhere to established protocols, perform routine checks on patients, and maintain a clean and organized workspace. Additionally, effective communication with my colleagues is essential for sharing important information about any changes in patients' conditions.

Building rapport with patients starts with kindness and empathy. I make it a point to listen to their concerns, provide comfort, and engage in meaningful conversations. Every interaction is a chance to show that I care about their well-being, which fosters trust.

When conflicts arise, I approach them with an open mind and seek to understand the other person's perspective. I prioritize finding a resolution through respectful dialogue, focusing on common goals to ensure we can continue to provide excellent patient care.

One of the challenges can be the emotional toll of caring for critically ill patients and their families. I cope by seeking support from my colleagues and using stress management techniques, including mindfulness and self-care activities, to maintain my emotional well-being.

Essential skills for success as a Certified Nursing Assistant include strong communication abilities, patience, empathy, and critical-thinking skills. Being adaptable and having a strong sense of teamwork enhances the capacity to provide excellent patient care.

I am drawn to Nebraska Medicine because of its outstanding reputation for patient care and commitment to innovation in healthcare. Being part of a team recognized for excellence aligns with my career goals and allows me to contribute positively to patient outcomes.

I stay current with healthcare practices by attending training sessions, reading industry literature, and actively participating in discussions with my colleagues about best practices and new developments, ensuring that I offer patients the best care possible.