## Oncology Nursing Assistant at Sanford Health - Bismarck, ND ### Role Overview As an Oncology Nursing Assistant at Sanford Health in Bismarck, North Dakota, you will play a crucial role in providing compassionate and comprehensive care to patients undergoing cancer treatment. This inpatient position involves assisting patients with their daily living activities, monitoring their vital signs, and ensuring their comfort and safety. Working under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), you will be an integral part of a multidisciplinary team dedicated to improving the lives of individuals battling cancer. ### A Day in the Life Your day as an Oncology Nursing Assistant will be dynamic and rewarding. You'll start by receiving patient assignments and collaborating with the nursing team to understand each patient's unique needs and care plan. Typical tasks may include: * **Assisting with personal hygiene:** Helping patients with bathing, grooming, and toileting. * **Supporting nutritional needs:** Assisting with meals, feeding patients who require assistance, and monitoring intake. * **Monitoring vital signs:** Regularly checking and recording vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration. * **Collecting specimens:** Gathering non-invasive biological specimens for laboratory testing. * **Ensuring patient comfort:** Providing emotional support, repositioning patients to prevent bedsores, and maintaining a clean and comfortable environment. * **Documentation:** Accurately documenting patient care activities and observations in the electronic health record. * **Maintaining safety:** Following infection control protocols, ensuring a safe environment, and responding to patient calls promptly. ### Why Bismarck, North Dakota? Bismarck offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, making it an ideal place to live and work. Here are a few reasons why you might enjoy Bismarck: * **Quality of Life:** Bismarck boasts a high quality of life with a low crime rate, affordable housing, and excellent schools. * **Outdoor Recreation:** Enjoy access to numerous parks, lakes, and trails for hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The Missouri River offers scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. * **Community:** Bismarck is known for its friendly and welcoming community, making it easy to build connections and feel at home. * **Career Opportunities:** Sanford Health is a major employer in the region, providing stable and rewarding career opportunities in healthcare. * **Cost of Living:** The cost of living in Bismarck is lower than the national average, allowing you to stretch your dollar further. ### Career Path Sanford Health is committed to the growth and development of its employees. As an Oncology Nursing Assistant, you can advance your career through various pathways: * **Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certification:** If you are not already certified, obtaining your CNA certification can enhance your skills and career prospects. * **Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN):** With additional education and training, you can become an LPN and take on more advanced nursing responsibilities. * **Registered Nurse (RN):** Pursuing an RN degree opens doors to a wide range of nursing specialties and leadership roles. * **Specialty Certifications:** Obtaining certifications in areas such as oncology nursing or geriatrics can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to specialized patient care. ### Salary & Benefits While the specific salary range for this position is provided ($15.00 - $23.00 per hour), Sanford Health also offers a comprehensive benefits package to support your overall well-being. These benefits may include: * **Health Insurance:** Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family healthy. * **Paid Time Off:** Vacation, sick leave, and holidays to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance. * **Retirement Savings:** A 401(k) plan with employer matching to help you save for your future. * **Life Insurance:** Protection for you and your family in the event of an unexpected loss. * **Disability Insurance:** Income protection if you become disabled and unable to work. * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Financial assistance to pursue further education and professional development. * **Employee Assistance Program (EAP):** Confidential counseling and support services to help you manage personal and work-related challenges. Sanford Health typically offers a competitive salary based on experience and qualifications, with additional incentives for performance and tenure. A Nursing Assistant in Bismarck, ND can expect to make between $30,000-$45,000 yearly. ### Sanford Culture Sanford Health is more than just a healthcare provider; it's a community of dedicated professionals committed to making a difference in the lives of others. The culture at Sanford Health is characterized by: * **Teamwork:** Collaboration and mutual support among team members to provide the best possible patient care. * **Compassion:** Empathy and understanding for patients and their families during challenging times. * **Innovation:** A commitment to continuous improvement and the adoption of new technologies and best practices. * **Respect:** Valuing the contributions of all employees and fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. * **Integrity:** Adhering to the highest ethical standards in all aspects of patient care and business operations. ### How to Apply If you are passionate about providing compassionate care to oncology patients and are looking for a rewarding career opportunity, we encourage you to apply for the Oncology Nursing Assistant position at Sanford Health in Bismarck, North Dakota. To apply, please visit the Sanford Health careers website and search for the job posting. Follow the online application process, and be sure to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and qualifications. ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. **What are the essential duties of an Oncology Nursing Assistant?** Assisting patients with daily living activities, monitoring vital signs, collecting specimens, documenting patient care, and maintaining a clean and safe environment. 2. **What qualifications are required for this position?** High school diploma or GED preferred, CNA certification preferred, and willingness to be listed on the ND Nurse Aide Registry if applicable. 3. **What skills are important for success in this role?** Excellent communication, empathy, teamwork, observation, and time management skills are crucial. 4. **What opportunities are available for career advancement?** Opportunities to become a CNA, LPN, or RN, as well as specialty certifications. 5. **What is the work environment like at Sanford Health?** A collaborative, supportive, and patient-centered environment focused on teamwork and compassion. 6. **What kind of training is provided to new Nursing Assistants?** Sanford Health provides comprehensive orientation and on-the-job training to ensure you are well-prepared for your role. 7. **Are there opportunities for professional development?** Yes, Sanford Health offers tuition reimbursement and various professional development programs to help you grow your skills. 8. **What is the dress code for Nursing Assistants?** Sanford Health has a professional dress code, typically involving scrubs, that are clean and well-maintained. 9. **How is patient safety prioritized at Sanford Health?** Patient safety is a top priority, with strict adherence to infection control protocols, safety procedures, and ongoing training. 10. **What benefits does Sanford Health offer?** Comprehensive health insurance, paid time off, retirement savings plans, life insurance, and more.