Nursing Assistant, Certified, Long Term Care (LTC) at Sanford Health - Hays, Kansas

Role Overview

As a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Long Term Care (LTC) at Sanford Health in Hays, Kansas, you will play a vital role in providing compassionate and resident-centered care to individuals residing in our long-term care facility. You will work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to assist residents with their daily living activities, ensuring their comfort, safety, and well-being. Your contributions will directly impact the quality of life for our residents, making this a rewarding and fulfilling career.

Day in the Life

Your day as a Nursing Assistant will be dynamic and varied, encompassing a range of responsibilities designed to meet the diverse needs of our residents. Here's a glimpse into what you can expect: * **Assisting with Personal Care:** You will help residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and oral hygiene. Providing respectful and dignified assistance is paramount. * **Mobility Support:** Many residents require assistance with mobility. You'll help them transfer from bed to chair, move around their rooms, and walk, using proper body mechanics and assistive devices. * **Nutritional Assistance:** You'll assist residents with meals, ensuring they receive proper nutrition and hydration. This may involve setting up meal trays, feeding residents who need assistance, and monitoring their intake. * **Vital Signs Monitoring:** You'll regularly measure and record vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration, reporting any abnormalities to the nursing staff. * **Documentation:** Accurate and timely documentation of resident care is essential. You'll record observations, vital signs, and any changes in a resident's condition or behavior. * **Communication:** You'll communicate with residents, their families, and the nursing team, providing updates on their care and progress. Active listening and empathy are crucial in this role. * **Infection Control:** Maintaining a clean and safe environment is crucial. You'll follow infection control protocols, including hand hygiene and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). * **Creating a Positive Environment:** As a CNA, you help to foster a friendly environment for your residents.

Why Hays, Kansas?

Hays, Kansas, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, making it an attractive place to live and work. Here's why you might consider a career at Sanford Health in Hays: * **Community:** Hays is a close-knit community where people are friendly and welcoming. You'll find a strong sense of belonging and a supportive network of colleagues and neighbors. * **Quality of Life:** Hays offers a high quality of life with affordable housing, excellent schools, and low crime rates. It's a great place to raise a family or enjoy a peaceful retirement. * **Outdoor Recreation:** Hays is located near several state parks and wildlife areas, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping. * **Cultural Attractions:** Hays is home to several museums, art galleries, and historical sites, showcasing the region's rich history and culture. * **Accessibility:** Hays is easily accessible by car or plane, with a regional airport offering connections to major cities.

Career Path

Sanford Health is committed to supporting the professional growth of its employees. As a Nursing Assistant, you'll have opportunities to advance your career through training, education, and mentorship programs. Potential career paths include: * **Certified Medication Aide (CMA):** After gaining experience as a CNA, you can pursue certification as a CMA, allowing you to administer medications under the supervision of a nurse. * **Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN):** You can enroll in an LPN program and become a licensed nurse, expanding your scope of practice and responsibilities. * **Registered Nurse (RN):** With further education and training, you can become an RN, assuming a leadership role in patient care. * **Specialized Nursing Roles:** You can also specialize in areas such as geriatrics, wound care, or rehabilitation nursing.

Salary & Benefits

Sanford Health offers a competitive salary and benefits package to its employees. The starting rate for this position ranges from $17.50 to $25.50 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits include: * **Health Insurance:** Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. * **Paid Time Off (PTO):** Generous PTO accrual for vacation, sick leave, and holidays. * **Retirement Plan:** 401(k) with employer match. * **Life Insurance:** Company-paid life insurance. * **Disability Insurance:** Short-term and long-term disability coverage. * **Employee Assistance Program (EAP):** Confidential counseling and support services. * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Financial assistance for continuing education. * **Wellness Programs:** Programs to promote employee health and well-being.

Sanford Health Culture

Sanford Health is committed to creating a culture of caring, compassion, and respect. We value our employees and provide a supportive work environment where everyone can thrive. Our core values include: * **Integrity:** We act with honesty and integrity in all that we do. * **Excellence:** We strive for excellence in patient care, research, and education. * **Innovation:** We embrace innovation and seek new ways to improve the health of our communities. * **Respect:** We treat everyone with respect and dignity. * **Teamwork:** We work together as a team to achieve our goals.

How to Apply

If you are a compassionate and dedicated individual seeking a rewarding career in healthcare, we encourage you to apply for the Nursing Assistant position at Sanford Health in Hays, Kansas. To apply, please visit our website and submit your resume and cover letter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**1. What are the requirements for becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?** *To become a CNA, you must complete a state-approved training program and pass a certification exam.* **2. What does a CNA do?** *A CNA provides basic care to patients in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities.* **3. What skills are important for a CNA?** *Important skills for a CNA include compassion, communication, and attention to detail.* **4. What is the job outlook for CNAs?** *The job outlook for CNAs is positive, with expected growth in the coming years due to the aging population.* **5. What are the working conditions like for CNAs?** *CNAs often work long hours and may be required to work nights, weekends, and holidays.* **6. How can I advance my career as a CNA?** *CNAs can advance their careers by pursuing additional education and certifications, such as becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN).* **7. What is the starting salary for a CNA?** *The starting salary for a CNA varies depending on experience, education, and location.* **8. What are the benefits of working as a CNA at Sanford Health?** *Sanford Health offers competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career advancement.* **9. What is the work culture like at Sanford Health?** *Sanford Health is committed to creating a culture of caring, compassion, and respect.* **10. What are the opportunities for professional development at Sanford Health?** *Sanford Health offers a variety of professional development opportunities, including training programs, continuing education courses, and mentorship programs.*