Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) –Job Description
Location: Chelsea, MA
Department: Nursing / Patient Care
Job Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, or Per Diem
Shift: Days, Evenings, Nights, or Rotating Shifts
Reports To: Registered Nurse (RN) / Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)Job SummaryThe Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides direct patient care and assistance with daily living activities under the supervision of licensed nursing personnel. The CNA supports patients'physical comfort, personal hygiene, mobility, and emotional well-being while maintaining a safe, clean, and supportive healthcare environment. The role requires compassion, attention to detail, effective communication, and a commitment to preserving patient dignity and promoting quality care.Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist patients and residents with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and feeding.
- Monitor and record vital signs, including temperature, pulse, respirations, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, as assigned and within scope of practice.
- Assist patients with ambulation, transfers, repositioning, and mobility using appropriate safety equipment.
- Observe and report changes in patients'physical, mental, or emotional conditions to the supervising nurse.
- Maintain accurate documentation of patient care activities and observations.
- Assist with meal preparation, feeding, hydration, and monitoring food and fluid intake.
- Provide routine personal care while respecting patient privacy, dignity, cultural preferences, and individual needs.
- Maintain clean, organized, and safe patient rooms and care areas.
- Follow infection prevention procedures, hand hygiene protocols, and appropriate personal protective equipment guidelines.
- Assist with admission, transfer, and discharge activities as directed by licensed nursing staff.
- Provide emotional support and communicate respectfully with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
- Answer call lights promptly and respond to patient requests within the CNA scope of practice.
- Follow fall prevention measures and other patient safety protocols.
- Report safety concerns, suspected abuse, neglect, or changes in patient status according to facility policy and applicable law.
- Participate in staff meetings, required training, and continuing education activities.
Qualifications
- Current Massachusetts Nurse Aide certification or eligibility consistent with the employer's requirements.
- Completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, as required.
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, if required by the employer.
- Previous experience in a hospital, skilled nursing facility, rehabilitation center, or long-term care setting preferred.
- Strong communication, teamwork, time-management, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to provide compassionate care to patients with diverse medical, physical, and emotional needs.
- Knowledge of infection control, patient confidentiality, fall prevention, and safe patient handling.
- Ability to follow instructions and work effectively under the supervision of licensed nursing personnel.
- Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position, including standing, walking, bending, and assisting with patient mobility.
Work EnvironmentThis position is based in a healthcare facility in Chelsea, Massachusetts. Depending on the employer, the CNA may work in a hospital, nursing home, rehabilitation center, assisted living facility, or long-term care environment. The role may require extended periods of standing and walking, frequent patient transfers, and rotating shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.Compensation and BenefitsCompensation is determined by the employer, experience, qualifications, and employment status. Benefits may include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, paid holidays, shift differentials, and opportunities for professional development.Equal Employment OpportunityThe employer provides equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and complies with applicable federal and Massachusetts employment laws.Application RequirementsApplicants should submit a résumé, verification of applicable Massachusetts nurse aide certification, relevant certifications, and professional references as requested by the hiring organization. Background checks and other employment screenings may be required.