Kansas Nursing Assistants: FAQ's

Thinking about taking a CNA course in Kansas?  I'm sure you have lots of questions about Kansas requirements and employment issues.  We've accumulated our most asked questions and will address them over our next few blogs.

Q.  Can an employer request that I work for them for a period of time if they pay for my CNA training?

The use of contracts relating to training for employment is prohibited under federal regulations.  An adult care home cannot require a Trainee II or a CNA to enter into either verbal or written contracts to work for a specified period of time at the facility or else reimburse the facility for the cost of the training.   

Schools however may require students to enter into verbal or written contracts stating terms of payment.  However, a contract must not state that the student will be denied access to the state test.

Q.  Can I work for an adult care home as a Nurse Aide Trainee I?

A Nurse Aide Trainee I (NAT1) may not be employed by a facility in DIRECT care duties.  Direct, individual care refers to nursing activities that are resident oriented.  It involves personal contact with the resident by the trainee, and provides assistance in grooming, feeding, toileting, or ambulating the resident.

Q.  What happens once I complete Part 1 of the CNA Course?

Once you have completed Part 1 of this nurse aide training course, your clinical instructor will evaluate you on your performance using the Task Checklist provided by the State of Kansas.  The Task Checklist is used to evaluate your initial competence in performing basic nursing tasks.  Your clinical instructor must observe completion of each task in a satisfactory manner.  When you have successfully demonstrated each task successfully to your clinical instructor, he/she will fill out the Task Checklist and the original is given to you.  Once you have completed this Task Checklist successfully, you are now classified as a Nurse Aide Trainee II (NATII)

Q.  Can I also become a Paid Nutrition Assistant with the CNA course?

Part 1 of your CNA training also include the instruction and competency evaluation required to for you to be an employee as a  Paid Nutrition Assistant (PNA). 

Also upon completion of Part I and the Task Checklist, We Care On-Line will award you a certificate of completion for PNA training.  Once you have successfully completed the Task Checklist for Part 1, the online CNA instructor will notify you and issue you a certificate by email.    This certificate is permanent evidence that you have completed the PNA training and you should keep this for your records.  Once you have successfully completed Part 1 and the Task Checklist you may seek employment as a PNA if you choose, whether or not you complete the rest of the course.  You are to provide a copy of the PNA certificate to the facility of employment.

Q.  What are my employment options once I am a NATII?

Once you are a NATII, you are eligible to provide direct, individual care to residents in an adult care home under the direction of a licensed nurse.  You may work as a paid nutrition assistance if you choose. 

As a NATII, you should not be expected to perform nursing tasks that have not yet been adequately covered during the classroom training hours and you should respectfully decline to provide the service that is asked of you.

Q.  How long am I considered a NATII?

You are considered a NATII for 4 months from the beginning date of the course.  If you are unable to fully meet the certification requirements within 4 months from the beginning date of the course, you are no longer eligible to provide direct resident care services.  A second 4 month trainee period is not allowed.

To be continued. . . .

To register for We Care Online's online or in house CNA class Click Here.

Physical Aspects of Aging -- Part 4 of 4

Teeth and Mouth

Older adults are more likely to lose teeth to gum disease than to problems with the teeth themselves. However, with proper personal care, regular checkups, and improved dentistry methods, older people are more able to retain their natural teeth throughout their lives. Older people who do lose their teeth may now expect and demand comfortable, well-fitting, and durable dentures.

Digestion

The digestive system is very sensitive to emotions. An older person may experience an upset stomach or lack of appetite when lonely, depressed, or worried. Regular contact with friends and relatives, through visits and telephone calls, can help prevent these problems.
It is fairly common for older people to have less frequent bowel movements and to suffer from constipation. This is due to changes in tissue and muscles and reduced thirst. Regular exercise, such as a daily walk, can prevent constipation. A well-balanced diet that includes adequate fiber and fluid intake also encourages normal bowel function and minimizes the need for laxatives. In contrast, self-prescribed laxatives are an expensive substitute for foods that naturally keep the gastrointestinal system running smoothly, such as bran cereals, fruits, and vegetables. Overuse of laxatives can interfere with the availability of nutrients for healthy body functioning.

Adequate fluid intake is essential for maintaining proper body temperature and functioning of the digestive system. However, some older people make the mistake of limiting their fluid intake in order to avoid frequent urination. Dehydration is a serious problem for the elderly. This is due to their decreased sense of thirst and reduced capacity to conserve water. In addition, laxative abuse, diuretic therapies, infections, immobility, or excessive use of alcohol or caffeine tend to promote dehydration.

Caregivers and older adults should follow the guidelines below to assure proper gastrointestinal functioning.

• Get some form of regular exercise that is appropriate to the level of physical ability.
• Maintain a well-balanced diet that includes natural sources of fiber such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
• On a daily basis, drink eight cups of water and other fluids.
• Watch for signs of dehydration, such as mental confusion, decreased urine output, constipation, nausea, lack of appetite, dryness of lips, and elevated body temperature.
• Pay special attention to fluid intake during hot weather.
• Monitor the fluid balance in older people with special medical problems, such as congestive heart failure or kidney disease. Discuss the appropriate methods to monitor fluid intake and output with your doctor.

Circulation

The older heart slows down and is less able to pump blood through the body than the younger heart. This results in older people having less energy and stamina for physical work. Decreased circulation also contributes to cold sensitivity, particularly in the hands and feet. Because oxygen necessary for proper physical and cognitive functioning is carried through the blood, the elder with poor circulation may experience forgetfulness and other symptoms of poor cognition.

Blood vessels, which play an important role in the circulation of blood throughout the body, lose elasticity as we age. This causes blood to tend to "pool" in the feet and legs. This means that swelling (edema) may occur in the extremities. Consequently, the heart, which undergoes muscle changes as we age, must pump harder in order to carry the blood to all parts of the body.

Changes in circulation make the older person more susceptible to the development of "little strokes" (TIAs) than when younger. Symptoms of such episodes include headache, vision disturbances, loss of balance, confusion, and dizziness when standing quickly from a sitting or reclining position. Because "little strokes" can be harbingers of a larger stroke, consult with the older person's primary health care provider, should these occur.

Many older people are on medications that impact circulation. Be familiar with these medications, and their side effects. This may prevent complications, which may arise from their use.

Pressure ulcers, a skin problem found in people with limited mobility, are due to impaired circulation. When an older person is unable to move about, tissue may die due to lack of an adequate blood supply to the skin. Areas particularly susceptible to these ulcers are those over bony prominences such as hips, shoulders, elbows, knees, ankles, and the heels of the feet.

To facilitate proper circulation and its effects:

• Prop the feet on a footstool or other appropriate stable object when sitting.
• Change the person's position at least every two hours to prevent pressure ulcers of the skin.
• Develop an activity routine which conserves energy and yet includes opportunities for movement.
• When the elder is sitting, rotate her or his feet at the ankles frequently to promote circulation.
• When the elder is rising from a reclining position, help her or him sit on the edge of the bed for a few moments before standing.
• Be familiar with the older person's medications and their side effects to prevent falls and other complications.
• Be alert to sensitivity to cold in the older person. Make certain there are sweaters, blankets, and other warm materials available.

Learn more in our Restorative Aide course!  For more information click here!

Physical Aspects of Aging -- Part 3 of 4

Vision

Even though changes to the eye take place as a person ages, many older people have good-to-adequate vision. Nevertheless, beginning in the late 30s and early 40s, an individual may begin to notice some changes. She or he may have to hold the paper farther away to read it due to changes in the ability of the lens to change its shape to accommodate to distance.

With aging, peripheral vision is reduced. A person may need to turn her or his head to see to the sides. The flexibility of the eye decreases and it takes an older person more time to accommodate to changes in light. Adaptations in lifestyle and behaviors must be made to cope with this change. An individual might give up driving at night. Placing more lights evenly around the room so that the entire room is lit is also helpful.
Degeneration of eye muscles and clouding of the lens are associated with aging. Several changes in vision result from this. Older people tend to have trouble focusing on near objects, but eyeglasses may correct this problem. In addition, the ability to see colors changes with age as the lens yellows. Red, yellow, and orange are easier to see than blue and green. This is why fabrics in warmer shades may be more appealing to the older person.

Serious vision impairments such as cataracts, glaucoma, and blindness affect between 7% and 15% of older adults. If someone you know must learn to cope with blindness or near blindness, you can play a critical role in helping them maintain their independence.

To help a person with any visual impairment, or to make your own life brighter:

• Light the room brightly and use more than one non-glare light in a room.
• Use blinds or shades to reduce glare.
• Keep a night light on in the bedroom, hallway, and bathroom to maintain an equal level of light.
• Increase lighting on stairwells and steps.
• Use concentrated light for sewing and reading.
• Turn lighting away from the television to avoid glare.
• Provide printed materials with high contrast between the background and lettering.
• Use contrasting colors in the home, such as colors between the doors and walls, and between the dishes and table coverings.
• Mark the edge of steps with a brightly colored tape or different colored paint, and paint the handrails.
• Provide audiotaped books and music for the elder's cognitive stimulation, entertainment, and relaxation.
• Wear a hat with a wide brim and sunglasses while outside. This will protect the eyes against too much sunlight, which can lead to cataracts.
• Know the warning signals of possible vision problems, including pain in or around the eyes, excessive tearing or discharge, double vision, dimness or distortion of vision, flashes of light, halos or floating spots, swelling of the eyelids or a protruding eye, changes in eye color, and changes in vision or movement of one eye.
• Make sure the older person has regular eye exams, including a glaucoma screening, at least once every 1-2 years.

Unfortunately, people who experience vision problems may avoid activities that require good vision and become isolated. Work with a professional to explore ways to help the older person maintain a normal lifestyle. With today's technologies and medical care, individuals don't have to accept limitations from declining vision as an inevitable part of aging.

Taste and Smell

Some loss in taste sensitivity takes place with aging. However, the loss is minor and does not seem to occur in most people until well after 70. There is also a loss of smell, but this is not severe.

Nevertheless, older people often complain that their meals are tasteless or that they no longer like their favorite foods. Most experts feel that these complaints are caused by a sense of loneliness at meals, or an unwillingness or inability to cook. Also, older persons may not buy more enjoyable foods when they have difficulty chewing due to poor dentures or dental problems, or are stretching their food dollars due to a limited budget.

To help the older person enjoy mealtime:

• Offer familiar, well-liked foods.
• Invite or encourage the elder to share meals with friends and family, in his or her home or at congregate meal sites.
• Experiment with different seasonings and flavorings.
• Prepare a variety of foods each day.
• Make the table colorful and inviting with bright napkins, mats, and flowers.
• Encourage exercise, when possible, which stimulates the appetite. 

Learn more in our Restorative Aide course!  Click here for more info

Physical Aspects of Aging -- Part 2 of 4

Touch

The skin serves a protective function by buffering us from the environment. Skin changes leave the older person vulnerable to discomfort and harm. Due to reduced sensitivity, heat sources such as heating pads, hot water bottles, and pot handles can hurt the skin before the elder realizes that damage is occurring.

An older person may develop a greater sensitivity to cool temperatures and drafts. This is caused by a decline in sweat gland activity, a decrease in the ability to maintain a normal body temperature due to poorer circulation, and a thinning of the skin. Wrinkling, drying, and scaling also occur. The skin tears and breaks more easily, increasing the chance of injury and infection.

To cope with these changes, the older person should:

• Avoid extreme exposure to sun and wind, which speed up the aging of the skin.
• Avoid daily baths or showers, as these tend to dry out the skin.
• Moisturize the skin with body oil after a bath, gently patted on with a washcloth.
• After bathing, pat the skin dry.
• Drink one to two quarts of fluid daily to maintain normal body temperature and functioning.

The sensation of touch connects us with others no matter what our age. Thus, touch is important in maintaining the elder's emotional well-being. Use touch to communicate that you are there for support and that you care.

Changes in Bones and Muscles

Aging adults, especially the very old, are vulnerable to broken bones. In addition, joints stiffen and connecting ligaments between bones lose their elasticity. Hand and foot pain may result.
Although there is no known way to prevent sometimes painful changes in aging muscles, bones, and ligaments, regular exercise helps to assure continuing mobility in old age. Most physicians feel that walking, along with adequate rest and a nutritious diet, are tremendously valuable for maintaining mobility and fitness in the later years.
Health professionals advise middle-aged and older adults to:

• Eat a well-balanced diet with the proper amount of calcium and other essential nutrients.
• With a physician's guidance, start or continue a regular exercise program.

It is very important to prevent falls. Due to changes in bone mass and strength, falls often result in injury, hospitalization, and continued declines in health.

The suggestions covered under vision and hearing, as well as those listed below, will help the older person take the necessary precautions to prevent falls.

• A no-slip bath mat and grasp rails are installed in the shower or tub.
• A seat is placed in the shower if standing is difficult.
• If scatter rugs are used, they should have no-slip backing or mats underneath.
• Chairs are sturdy and do not wobble, break, or tip over.
• A safe, sturdy step stool is available to reach high places.
• The telephone is placed in a convenient location.
• Chairs and sofas are at a height that permits easy sitting.
• Floors and stairs have non-skid surfaces.
• Railings line all staircases.
• Staircases and walkways are uncluttered.
• Front and back steps, and inside flooring and carpeting are in good condition.
• Instructions for the proper use of medications are followed carefully, as improper types or dosages often cause falls.

You can find this and other great information in our Restorative Aide class!  Click here for more info

An Excerpt From Our Social Service Designee Course

Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

Understanding Death and Dying

Preparing for death often means finishing a life's work, setting things right with family and friends, and making peace with the inevitable. Spiritual and religious issues are important to many dying people and their families. Members of the clergy are part of the care team in some hospice and hospital facilities, and professional caregivers can help people and their families find appropriate spiritual assistance if they do not have a relationship with a minister or other spiritual leader.

Grieving is a normal process that usually begins before an anticipated death. According to Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, a pioneer in death and dying, the dying person typically experiences five emotional stages, often in the following order: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. A person in denial may act as if, talk as if, or think that he is not dying. Denial is caused by fears about loss of control, separation from loved ones, an uncertain future, and suffering. Talking to a doctor or other health care member can help the dying person understand that he can remain in control and that his pain and other symptoms will be controlled. Anger may be expressed as a sense of injustice: "Why me?". Bargaining can be a sign of reasoning with death, that is, seeking more time. When the person realizes that bargaining and other strategies are not working, depression may develop. Acceptance, sometimes described as facing the inevitable, may come after discussions with family, friends, and care providers.

Preparing for death is hard work, with many emotional ups and downs. However, for most people, it is a time of new understanding and growth. By dealing with past hurts and mending relationships, a dying person and family members can achieve a profound sense of peace.

Preparing for approaching death can be terrifying if you have no idea what to expect both physically and emotionally. As the dying process enters its final stages there are two different dynamics at work.

The physical aspect concerns the body as it begins its final process of shutting down; this ends the physical systems' functioning.

The other dynamic is the emotional/mental and spiritual area which is a different process. This is where the spirit of the dying individual begins to slip away from its immediate environment and attachments. This release tends to follow its own priorities when it comes to letting go; of family members, unfinished business of a personal nature and/or unreconciled problems. You have all heard people tell how someone on their death bed refused to let go until a certain member of the family was able to get there. Even when the body is trying to shut down the spirit hangs on until a resolution is reached. It is as though the dying person needs permission to go; needs to feel that he has achieved the support and acceptance of his fate by those he leaves behind. This way he can slip into the next dimension of life with grace and dignity.

Acceptance is coming to terms with reality. It is accepting that the world will still go on without you. Death is after all, just a part of life.

The EKR Foundation: Click Here

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross: Click Here

As a Social Service Designee, you may spend one on one time with dying residents. You may just want to read aloud or hold their hands. Some residents enjoy reading a passages from the Bible (or their preferred holy book) that are comforting (Psalm 23, in particular). Know your residents’ likes and dislikes. This will help you to know what residents would want you to do during this time. You can also get information from family members.

20 Things Nurses Wish They Never Had to Say

The title---borrowed from a nurses' desk calendar---is self-explanatory. The situations that give rise to these sayings, however, are not.

OK, I'll have to admit that I got the idea for this piece from a desk calendar my sister gave me for Christmas last year. It's 365 pages of nursing funnies, some of which really aren't, but the rest of them range from the mildly amusing to rolling-on-the-floor-with-tears-squirting-out-of-your-eyes HILARIOUS. And after having the kind of Hell Week I just went through, I needed the comic relief of "How in the world did THAT get in THERE??!"

Here, for your enjoyment, are twenty more things nurses wish they never had to say:

1) To the CNA: "Uh-oh........it looks like Mrs. Chambers hasn't had a BM in nine days."
2) To the patient with Munchausen's Syndrome: "No, I can't give you any more pain medicine," when what you'd really like is to swack him up with enough Dilaudid to shut him up about his manufactured miseries for a few hours.
3) To co-workers, upon seeing a frequent flyer coming up in the elevator: "Oh, Lordy......look at what the cat dragged in."
4) To the MD: "You want me to do WHAT?"
5) To your best friend's 10-year-old: "No, Eric, you're not a dork. Everybody gets their big toe stuck in the bathtub faucet at least once."

Read the rest...

How Nurse Aide Beat the Odds to Head Up Department

“A very important member of staff,” is how Dr Denis Ogolla, the managing director of Nairobi’s Avenue Healthcare, describes Irene Kaberere. She is the head of support services at the hospital.

Over the years, she earned trust due to her dedication to work which saw her rise through the ranks.

On her way up, she maintained a close relationship with both staff and patients.

“She is the sort of person that all staff members want to talk to, not only regarding official matters but also personal issues,” said Dr Ogolla.

“She spreads that motherly feeling to all of us at the hospital.” Ms Kaberere was employed at Avenue Healthcare in 1978, two years after the hospital was established. She is among the hospital’s eldest employees.

She served as a nurse-aide, assisting senior nurses and doctors with duties in the wards, a task she performed for four years.

Read the rest of the article here:   http://www.businessdailyafrica.com/How+nurse+aide+beat+the+odds+to+head+department/-/539444/1212236/-/ki2ygez/-/

What to Expect Working as a Nurse Aide

The increasing elderly population combined with advances in technology in the medical field is increasing the demand for nurse aides. In fact the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 28 percent growth in nurse aide positions between 2006 and 2016. People looking for an entry-level position in the healthcare field may find this is the right position for them once they learn about a nurse's aide information and salary.

Job Responsibilities
The main function of a nurse aide is to provide personal care to residents in a medical facility, and this can include assisting them with bathing, eating, dressing or going to the bathroom. They also transport patients to different departments by aiding them in walking through a medical facility or pushing them in a wheelchair. Since the job of a nurse aide is considered entry-level in the healthcare field, people in this position assist nursing staff, who serve as their supervisors, with setting up equipment and obtaining supplies.

Working Environment
Nurse aides can work in any medical facility where there is a need for assistance, but they are most commonly found in nursing homes, assisted living centers and hospitals. These facilities house patients with the greatest need for assistance and personal care services. Since care is needed for patients 24/7, nurse aides may work in the evenings, at night or on weekends to meet the demands of the facility.

Read more here:   http://www.infobarrel.com/What_to_Expect_Working_as_a_Nurse_Aide

New Font Could Help Dyslexic Readers

It might not be pretty, but a Dutch graphic designer believes that a new font he's developed can help people with dyslexia read more easily.

Graphic designer Christian Boer developed the typeface, called Dyslexie, back in 2008. And while it isn't the first font created specifically to help dyslectics, it may be the first backed up by some scientific evidence that suggests it works.

A recent study by researchers at the University of Twente in the Netherlands found the font helped to decrease the number of errors dyslectics made when reading.

Millions of people worldwide are affected by dyslexia, a language-based learning disability that causes problems in reading, spelling, writing and even pronouncing words.

There is no consensus on how many people have the condition, but estimates range from 10 to 20 per cent of the population.

Many people mistakenly believe that those with dyslexia read words backwards. In fact, what they are more likely to do is mix up and switch letters, especially ones that look similar.

For the average dyslectic, many of the letters in the Latin-based alphabet look frustratingly alike. At least eight letters, for example, are based on the letter "o" with various "tails." The letters "b," "d," "p," "q," "g," "a," and even "c" and "e" can be easily mixed up by someone with this learning disability.

Read the rest here:  http://www.ctv.ca/CTVNews/TopStories/20110729/new-typeface-font-dyslexic-readers-110730/

Move To Improve Residents' Quality of Life a Welcome Development

As growing numbers of Americans age and need extended care, long-term care organizations have sought to better meet both the healthcare and social needs of their residents. Those who reach the point in life where nursing home care is necessary do not want to live in an environment that feels like a hospital instead of a home.

Over the past several years, alternatives to institutional environments such as the Green House Project, the Pioneer Network and the Eden Alternative have all aimed to encourage genuine homes for the disabled elderly. And, with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' recent call for a culture change in nursing homes, the focus on resident-centered care places a priority on residents' rights.

CMS' new rules will encourage long-term care organizations to improve the quality of residents' lives by moving away from the institutional environment. For example, a resident's preferences for a daily schedule should be respected. Also, institutional overhead paging systems, alarms and large nursing stations, and meals served on institutional trays, should be eliminated..

Read more here:  http://www.mcknights.com/move-to-improve-residents-quality-of-life-a-welcome-development/article/141159/

Will music improve MDS 3.0 scores?

Neuroscience research during the past 10 years has made great strides in documenting the relationship between music and the brain. The New York Academy of Sciences Music, Science and Medicine conference recently brought together leading researchers to share what we now know about music and its impact on Alzheimer's disease, pain, Parkinson's, coma and autism.

Optimally, every long-term care facility would benefit from the expertise of a music therapist. Short of that level of expertise, long-term care facilities have an inexpensive tool that can have a positive impact on resident quality of life, which, in turn, should be reflected in an important subset of MDS 3.0 scores.

Using iPods to reconnect residents with their favorite music is a simple intervention with great upside potential and no side effects. According to the New York State Department of Health, individualized music reduces dementia-related agitation by up to 80%. Feedback from hundreds of residents (and staff) is that behavior and mood improves, and residents are more cooperative, attentive and engaged.

Why this works for long-term care:

It breaks through the group activities hurdle

Just think about the top five ways we like to spend our own free time. How many of those are group activities? The answer is typically very few. We tend to think nothing of our anytime access to music. Yet we provide all manner of group activities while we look for ways to be more person-centered. Little is more personally meaningful than our own music.

Read more here:   http://www.mcknights.com/will-music-improve-mds-30-scores/article/205919/

My Twinkling Star

As the social services and activity director in a 92-bed skilled nursing facility, I am fortunate to share in a precious season of residents' lives. For most of them, this is the final "home" that they will have this side of heaven. It is our motto that they don't come here to die but to live.

As social service / activity staff, we have the opportunity to catch a unique glimpse of the individual because we assess their likes, preferences and learn about their backgrounds. We are entrusted with them. The residents share their histories and life lessons with us — if we are quiet enough to listen and observe.

Read more here:   http://www.mcknights.com/my-twinkling-star/article/208031/

A Little Humor

AARP Finds Toll On Family Caregivers Is 'Huge'

A new study by the AARP estimates that for the more than 40 million Americans caring for an elderly or disabled loved one, the value of their work is $450 billion a year.

That's a good deal for society. But for the family members doing the work, the study finds they need a lot more help.

Take Cymando Henley, 36, whose mother was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis when he was starting college. She now must use a wheelchair, and Henley has been taking care of her for nearly two decades.

Henley does have help. Montgomery County, Maryland, where they live, and the MS Society pay for a combined 35 hours of home health aides each week — though that's threatened by budget cuts.

But every day, Henley must help his mom in and out of bed and onto the toilet. He even rolls her over in the middle of the night if she becomes uncomfortable.

Read the rest...

Ten Highest Paying Nursing Specialties

Nurses make up the largest number of healthcare professions -- there are over 2.6 million registered nurses in the US. Here are the ten nursing specialties that earn the highest pay.

Read More Here...

Post Job Interview Strategy

Ever feel awkward about leaving your job interview and what to do next?  Here's some good advice on how to leave your prospective employer with a good impression.

The way in which you follow up after a job interview can be as important to your job search success as the interview itself. After a job interview, it is critical that you make it known to your potential employer that you are enthusiastic about the job for which you interviewed and the company itself.

Leaving the Interview

Before you exit your interview, ask the interviewer what the typical protocol is for hiring--ask what the next steps are in the hiring process and when you might expect to hear from them. Also be sure to get a business card from every person you meet during the course of the interview process. You will need this contact information later on to complete your follow-up.
Thank You Note--Timing

Write a thank you note as soon as you can after your interview. Both email and regular mail are acceptable. If you choose to send an email, wait at least an hour or two before you send it--sending an email too soon after an interview (10 minutes later from your phone, for example) can make you appear somewhat desperate and your thanks will not come across as being completely genuine....Read more: Post Job Interview Strategy

Health Unit Coordinator Responsibilities and Duties

Creating a resume to apply for your Health Unit Coordinator position can be a little tricky.  One of the important parts of the resume is listing what you can or have done as a Health Unit Coordinator.  

Get to know about the Roles, Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities of Health Unit Coordinator. Below is a generic list of the HUC's Responsibilities and Duties that you might consider listing on your resume.

• Transcribe and communicate health physician orders on time.
• Manage unit communication to promptly answer telephones and activating paging system and unit mail.
• Document and manage medical records as per policy.
• Support physicians by transcribing orders and managing patient charts.
• Incorporate vision, values, missions and critical goals into job performance.
• Manage Hospital standards by engaging in health committees and in-services.
• Precept new associates as assigned by department manager.
• Prioritize work and manage multiple emergent demands by working independently.
• Tabulate data log sheets, receive payment, make receipt and follow billing procedures.
• Prioritize and transcribe written doctor’s order under RN supervision.
• Manage patient medical records as per hospital and unit policy.
• Develop and achieve unit goals on health, safety, cost and quality. 
• Attain customer service excellence by satisfying customer needs.
• Transcribe health physician order under RN’s directions.
• Handle patient activities on and off nursing unit such facility transfers. 

See more about Great Resumes - Click Here

Interview with an Health Unit Coordinator

Information regarding certification with NAHUC

More information about certification

Take an online HUC class to prep you for the HUC Exam!

Working Women's Wardrobe Guide

Understanding the rules and etiquette that applies to business attire can be the difference between success in a job interview or job placement and failure. Women's business attire should be understated, good quality, body-appropriate and comfortable. Tight-fitting, translucent, bright and worn-looking clothes are not acceptable business attire and will translate badly in a business environment.

Suits for all Seasons

Suits are the staple of proper business attire. The Pasadena Independent School District business etiquette website states that for women, wool suits are the best choice in winter, fall and spring. Summer suits can be made from cotton or linen. Proper fitting is essential for business attire, so suits should be professionally fitted, if possible--this will give the most professional look to business attire and will also provide optimum comfort. Avoid tight suits, bright colors and bold patterns that may be too distracting--black, gray, navy, taupe, dark green and burgundy are colors that work in a business environment. Pinstripe and, to a lesser degree, houndstooth patterns are acceptable.

Read more: Working Women's Wardrobe Guide | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_6331441_women_s-business-attire_-rules-etiquette.html#ixzz1QgP7L6pa

What Is A Social Service Designee?

The Social Service Designee usually works in a Long Term Care environment. They work under a Social Worker. Social Service Designees are the voice of the resident when the resident has lost the capacity to speak for his or herself.

An SSD should:

• Express a philosophy of person-centered, long-term care based on individual resident needs, preferences and choices.
• Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the aging process, including misconceptions, physical changes and psychosocial aspects.
• Demonstrate knowledge of applicable state and federal regulations.
• Show understanding of the rights of individuals who reside in long-term care facilities.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the admission and discharge process.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of documentation.
• Demonstrate ability in basic performance skills, such as teamwork, communication skills and working with administrative staff and other disciplines.
• Discuss issues involved in the management of internal support staff, budgeting, supplies, and outside resources.
• Show understanding of methods of identifying resident interests and needs and the use of assessment in care plan development.
• Evaluate a care plan for effectiveness.

Sign up for We Care Online's Social Service Designee class - Click Here!

Acing the Interview Once You Have the Training

Interviewing for that job you really want can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. However, there are some tricks to keep your nerves from getting the best of you during an interview and make that first impression a memorable one. A job interview can result in the elusive job offer so it is crucial to head into every interview feeling confident and well prepared.  Read the rest of the blog - click here.

Read more: The Most Important Job Interviewing Skills | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_6504113_important-job-interviewing-skills.html#ixzz1Q9CdIM6G

Helping Others: Residents Like It Too

"Excuse me," I said to the lady sitting across from the nursing station.  "We've been saying hello for a while.  I'm Dr. Barbera, the psychologist.  You're Ms. Patel, right?"

"Yes, that's right."  She looked up at me from her wheelchair and smiled.  "Nice to meet you."

"You too.  Listen, I wanted to ask you a favor.  It's perfectly okay if you say no, because not everyone is comfortable with this, but I'm trying to find a place to meet in private with a neighbor of yours and her roommate is in her room.  I was wondering if I might be able to sit and chat with her for a few minutes in your room, since you're out here.  We wouldn't touch anything, we'd just sit and talk."


Read more at My Better Nursing Home - Click Here

Ever Wondered About the How's and Why's of Scrubs??

See what Wikipedia says about the history of scrubs.  Interesting!

"Scrubs are the shirts and trousers or gowns worn by nurses, surgeons, and other operating room personnel when "scrubbing in" for surgery. In the United Kingdom, they are sometimes known as Theatre Blues. They are designed to be simple with minimal places for dirt to hide, easy to launder, and cheap to replace if damaged or stained irreparably. The wearing of scrubs has been extended outside of surgery in many hospitals. Originally issued as replacement clothing if street clothing was contaminated, scrubs are now worn by any hospital personnel in any clean environment. The spread of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has increased the use of scrubs but can give wearers a false sense of security that they are 'clean' when in fact are as easily contaminated as any other clothing.^[1] They have also been mandated in some American prisons as a prison uniform.^{[citation needed]} The television show Scrubs is named for the medical garments worn by hospital personnel." 

Read the rest of Wikipedia's information:  Click Here

50 Web Resources Every Nurse Should Have

Pretty much every link you need to have, being a nurse.  Check this out! Click Here

30 Useful Web Apps You Need to Bookmark

FillAnyPDF

FillAnyPDF is a fairly simple web app which allows you to upload a PDF file, then easily write on it wherever you want. This allows you to easily fill out any form, even if they’re not in an editable PDF form. You can also share your blank form with others, so you can collect forms from a group easily. FillAnyPDF also supports electronic signatures and has a repository of free forms.

Google Wave

Read more: Click here

Job Description As a CNA Restorative Aide

A CNA restorative aide is a health-care professional who has earned certification as a certified nursing assistant and works with patients trying to return to regular, daily functioning after an illness or injury.

1. Function

   • CNA restorative aides work alongside registered nurses as well as occupational and physical therapists, setting up necessary supplies and cleaning equipment and assisting as needed. For patients, CNA restorative aides help with exercises, such as walking, that do not need the direct supervision of a therapist or nurse.

Read more: Click Here

Celebrate Residents' Rights - National Residents' Rights Month 2011 Packet of Materials Available Online

From the National Long Term Care Ombudsmen Resource Center:

May 3, 2011

We are pleased to announce Residents' Rights Week has been expanded to Residents' Rights Month. This gives us the entire month of October to call attention to the very important topic of residents' rights.
Residents' Rights Month is an annual event designated by the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care and is celebrated in October to honor residents living in all long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, sub acute units, assisted living, board and care and retirement communities. It is a time for celebration and recognition offering an opportunity for every facility to focus on and celebrate awareness of dignity, respect and the value of each individual resident. The theme for Residents' Rights Month 2011 is, "Welcome Home: Creating Connections Between Residents and the Community" with the goal of educating the community about residents' rights and to increase community involvement with residents.

2011 Residents' Rights Month Packet of Materials

Each year, the Consumer Voice develops a packet to help you plan your Residents’ Rights events. The packet is completely downloadable and features ready-to-use items, including promotional materials, activities to celebrate Residents' Rights Month, training tools and resources. Access the packet online.

A Few Great Links for Activity Directors

If you're like me, you're constantly online Googling different ideas to make your job more fun and interesting.  Here are a few good links with great activity ideas that came across our Activity Director course Discussion Board last month.

Have fun!

http://www.notjustbingo.com/

http://www.theactivitydirectorsoffice.com/Gina_ActivityIdeasThatWork_Home.html

http://www.birdsandblooms.com/

http://www.funtrivia.com/

Pharmacy Associations, Technicians and Settings for Technicians

An excerpt from our Pharmacy Technician course.

...In this chapter, you will be introduced to the qualifications, skills, and nonjudgmental duties required of pharmacy technicians in various job settings. You will also have the opportunity to learn about pharmacy technician certification. In addition to learning about the traditional settings for technicians, you will explore industry trends, such as e-pharmacies, and ways in which technicians can combine their knowledge of pharmacy with other skills and move into other positions.

Watch the Presentation "Pharmacy Associations, Certification, and Settings for Technicians"
You can download instructor notes to go along with the presentation by clicking here.

Links for Pharmacy Technician jobs and information:

• CareerBuilder, www.careerbuilder.com
• Craigslist, www.craigslist.org, select the nearest metropolitan area from the list on the right
• Monster, www.monster.com
• Pharmacy Tech Certification Board (PTCB): National Statistics, www.ptcb.org/About/statistics.aspx
• Pharmacy Tech Certification Board (PTCB) News: State Boards, www.ptcb.org/News/stateboards.aspx
• Yahoo Hot Jobs, http://hotjobs.yahoo.com

Gardening Leads to Better Eating Habits and Quality of Life

Older adults who spend time gardening are more likely to eat healthier foods, and report better quality of life and higher energy levels than other seniors who don't garden.

Texas A&M and Texas State University conducted a survey of nearly 300 adults age 50 and over. 

• Respondents who spent time gardening were more likely to be energetic, healthy and optimistic about the future.
• 84% said they had made plans for things they will be doing in one month or one year, while only 68% of non-gardeners had made similar plans

Read more:  Click Here

Tips and Time Savers For CNA's

So, you’re brand new and a little nervous? Thats ok and natural. Being a CNA is a rewarding career, but there are LOTS to learn and lots of cover in those first few days at work! Don’t be surprised if you feel a bit overwhelmed and anxious. Someday–soon- you will be an “old pro” at this stuff. The first part of this is for the new CNA…

The Basics
I remember my first few weeks as a CNA- it was hard to get to know all the residents as well as staff as well as the facility policies and procedures. I was very overwhelmed and looking back now- there were certain things I should have done that would have made my life much easier then! Live and learn….

First, it is a good idea to bring a little notebook to work with you. In here you can write down info you need about everything from phone numbers to resident issues. Jotting down info is a way to remember it! At periodic times during the day check the little book to see if there are things you still need info about. When you think of questions and no one is around to answer them- write them down. Later you can refer back to the book.

See the rest - Click Here

History of the Health Unit Coordinator

Prior to World War II, hospitals were staffed by physicians, nurses, specialists such as laboratory technicians, and a few support personnel such as cooks and janitors. World War II brought about massive changes in the staffing of health facilities. These changes were first felt in England in the late 1930s as the immense number of casualties put an intolerable strain on physicians and nurses. First, the nurses took over some of the physicians' "duties," such as taking blood pressures and starting intravenous therapy. This meant that the nurse needed someone to take over some of her duties. (The vast majority of nurses at that time were women.)

It had always been noted by nurses that "desk" duties such as answering the telephone or going on errands frequently interrupted the giving of nursing care. So an individual was added to the staff to do these duties. This person was designated a "floor clerk." As the war went on, more and more responsibilities, such as copying diet lists and condition reports, were assigned to the "floor clerk" position description.

The first recorded unit coordinating history was found in an article, "In Favor of Floor Secretaries," published in 1940 in a journal, The Modern Hospital, written by a hospital administrator. In the article, the author, Abraham Oseroff, outlined the implementation of unit coordinating at Montifiore Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He described how "a new helper was introduced to the nursing unit to take care of the many details of a secretarial nature that formerly made demands on the limited time of the nurse." The new helper was called a "floor secretary." Mr. Oseroff further said," that the idea of a floor secretary was first met with skepticism, but it proved to be worthwhile from the beginning."

See the rest of this article on NAHUC.org - Click Here

More about the Health Unit Coordinator

A shortage of health care workers continue to rise as the baby boomer generation retire and increase their use in the health care system. The Registered Nurse relies heavily on the health unit coordinator to perform the delegated tasks. Students learning skills in health unit coordinating will be prepared to work in a variety of health care settings.

To begin the class please read Chapters 1-8 in your textbook. Complete the questions at the end of each chapter. You do not need to send the answers to your instructor. This will help you pass the unit test.

I found a video clip on you tube from a Wisconsin University showing what a unit coordinator's job can consist. Take a look; I thought it was pretty interesting.

Knowing your medical terminology is absolutely a must if you want to become a health unit coordinator. We have included a basic Medical Terminology course with our Health Unit Coordinator content.

Click here to read the history of the Health Unit Coordinator:  http://www.nahuc.org/nahuc_hi.htm

NAHUC  is a professional association for health unit coordinators. It's mission is to promote health unit coordinating as a profession through education and certification.  All are encouraged to join.  One does not need to be certified to be a member nor does one need to be a member to be certified.

To join NAHUC, all one has to do is complete and submit the membership application and fee. This website is a good resource as a unit coordinator. You may become certified after completion of We Care Online's course by clicking here: http://www.nahuc.org/Certification/cb_exam.htm.

The requirements for taking the test for certification are that you have completed a course or you are currently working as a health unit coordinator and you have a high school diploma or GED. You will need to pass the test you schedule with the association to become certified. The certification would benefit you in finding a good job as a Health Unit Coordinator, but is not required.

Click Here to find out what is included in the NAHUC exam.

NAHUC has some scholarship money available for testing should you qualify. Click here to see what is required if you desire.

When You're Visiting A Loved One In A Nursing Home

When you have a loved one living in a nursing home or assisted living facility, it’s important to visit as often as you reasonably can. The stress of moving to a new environment often compounds medical problems and can make recovery more difficult. Staying active and socially engaged is an important part of healthy living, and you can help your loved one stay positive when you visit.

• Nursing homes typically have visitation schedules that you should be aware of as you plan your visit. Dropping by unannounced can be a stressor instead of providing the comfort and pleasure you intended.
• You should not visit when you have a cold, flu, or other virus, as other residents may have immune deficiencies which make them more susceptible to illness.
• Call ahead to find out if your loved one is in need of any personal items, clothing, or other necessities. Ask what time of day would be best to avoid mealtimes and medication times.

Read more: Click here

We Care Online Newsletter

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Mental Health Aides and Medical Terminology

Today's class spotlight focuses on two of our lesser known but popular classes: Medical Terminology and Mental Health Aide. Medical Terminology is the backbone to any career in the health care field, and can be an invaluable part of your education. It's also a great bargain at $92.50 (plus a textbook) for a 10-hour class. Whether you work in a front office or are on the floor passing medications, having a working knowledge of Medical Terminology can make a big difference in your day-to-day work. The course is the perfect for people just beginning their health care education, or for working professionals who wish to brush up their skills. You'll learn the meaning and pronunciation of specific medical terms and come out of the course knowing how and when to use those terms. The textbook is also a good reference that you can look back on and review any time you want to refresh your memory. Medical Terminology is an open enrollment class, available in all 50 states, so there's no wait once you're ready to start. You have 30 days to access the class and use the study materials.

If you already have a CNA license but want to expand your skills, consider a Mental Health Aide class. Like Medical Terminology, this class has open enrollment and is available in every state. Mental Health Aides, also known as psychiatric aides, do everything a CNA does, but have the added training to work with mentally impaired or emotionally disturbed individuals. This career path is perfect for people with a great deal of empathy and patience, and those who have a sincere desire to make a positive difference in a patient's life. It's
a challenging position, but one that builds on the skills most nurse aides already possess. A U.S. Department of Labor report (http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos327.htm) adds that, "Because they have such close contact with patients, psychiatric aides can have a great deal of influence on their outlook and treatment." As with the other
career paths we have profiled, the need for Mental Health Aides is growing and job prospects are good. The DOL report adds that, "There is a long-term trend toward treating psychiatric patients outside of hospitals, because it is more cost effective and allows patients greater independence. Demand for psychiatric aides in residential facilities will rise in response to increases in the number of older persons, many of whom will require mental health services."

The Mental Health Aide class requires 60 hours of learning and costs $292.50 plus the cost of a textbook. You will have a full 90 days to complete the class, and you can access the lessons at any time that is convenient to your schedule. In a little less than an hour a day, you can add a whole new dimension to your health care education. Get started now!

Salman Khan: Let's use video to reinvent education | Video on TED.com

Great ideas on changing education to fit the student.

Salman Khan: Let's use video to reinvent education | Video on TED.com

Want To Add On To Your CNA? Take A Look At Home Health Aide

Several career paths open up when you become a Certified Nurse Aide, and this week we're taking a closer look at one of the most in-demand positions, the Home Health Aide (this course is only available in KS for now.)

Home Health Aides fill a valuable role in the personal care spectrum. A Home Health Aide performs all the duties of a Certified Nurse Aide, but does so in a client's home. Tasks generally include assistance with personal grooming, meal preparation, and assistance with transportation for errands and doctor appointments. Because of the relative isolation of home-based clients, a Home Health Aide can also be called upon to provide companionship and entertainment to clients. This often involves reading aloud, playing a game, or simply being available to talk and listen to the client. HHAs can also assist with light laundry and housekeeping duties, child care, and medication administration.

Contrary to popular belief, Home Health Aides do not work exclusively with the elderly. Thanks to outpatient surgical procedures, and the fact that recovery is often more effective and less expensive in the home, HHAs are often employed to help clients recover from surgery or changes in mobility. They also assist those recovering from the physical and cognitive impacts of strokes. HHAs even work with  new mothers and assist with infant care and household chores so new parents can adjust to the unique challenges a baby brings.

While Nurse Aides generally work at a facility, Home Health Aides make house calls and work with clients one-on-one in the home. Because of this, a Home Health Aide's work is varied and challenging, and may include more interaction with the client's family and neighbors than you would generally find in a care facility. If you like an ever-changing work environment, and prefer a close patient-caregiver relationship, HHA may be the perfect career for you. It is also great if you want flexibility in work shifts and locations. An HHA career is perfect if you are courteous, punctual, and comfortable reporting in and keeping careful records. It's a great opportunity to exercise independent judgment while respecting the policies of an employer and the persons in your care.

As more and more people opt to stay in their homes rather than move to a managed care facility, the demand for Home Health Aides is growing. According to the US Department of Labor, "Employment of home health
aides is projected to grow by 50 percent between 2008 and 2018, which is much faster than the average for all occupations...The elderly and other clients, such as the mentally disabled, increasingly rely on home care." (source: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos326.htm).

What is a Restorative Aide?

Like the CMA (Medication Aide), a Restorative Aide is a skill and a job classification that builds on a CNA (Certified Nurse Aide).

Restorative Aides work with individuals who need physical therapy or other restorative treatment. Their primary duty is to address range-of-motion and mobility issues that can impact a person's life and lifestyle. Because Restorative Aides work with everything from rehabilitation after surgery to strokes, clients are not limited to the elderly or residents of long term care facilities.

Under the guidance of a therapist, Restorative Aides assist with therapy activities and are responsible for documenting their clients' progress. The Aide is an active part of a client's recovery, and works as part of a care team. Like CNAs, Restorative Aides often serve as the first point of patient contact and spend a significant part of their time working closely with clients. It is a very hands-on job and requires patience and a genuine interest in the well-being of clients.

Our class is specifically aimed at CNAs currently working in (or interested in) an elder care setting such as a nursing home or assisted living facility. The class addresses the following topics:

• What a rehabilitation unit is and how it functions.
• Effects of aging, inactivity, and disability.
• Basic anatomy and how the body moves.
• Medical problems that will interfere with functional independence.
• How to help residents in ways that will promote independence.
• What to look for when helping someone walk.
• How to help someone perform basic exercise.
• Common equipment used in rehabilitation.
• Basic balance responses and activities to improve balance.
• Ways to interact with residents.

According to the US Department of Labor, "Employment of occupational therapist assistants and aides is expected to grow by 30 percent from 2008 to 2018, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for occupational therapist assistants and aides will continue to rise because of the increasing number of individuals with disabilities or limited function." (source: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos166.htm). They
also point out that our growing elderly population has an ever increasing need for therapeutic services, and that these services are most often provided by Aides.

Our Restorative Aide class is available in most states and requires 32 hours of online learning. There is no additional textbook--all class materials are online. \The Restorative Aide class is a fast, easy way to expand your knowledge, increase your employability, and bring a whole new set of skills to your job.

The Medication Aide

Continuing our look at career options for students of our classes, we're taking a closer look at the Medication Aide class this week.


Medication Aide is one of our only classes that requires any previous training. Students must already be a licensed Certified Nurse Aide/Assistant before starting the Medication Aide class. The class is currently available in Kansas and South Dakota.


Medication Aides are authorized to pass medications to residents of nursing homes, a skill that can increase both your job options and your salary. This is in addition to Nurse Aide duties, so the work still involves a great deal of patient care beyond just passing medications. 


While passing medications sounds simple there are many things a Medication Aide must know to be effective at his or her job. Along with knowing the major classes of medications and major modes of administration, Medication Aides must also be able to do mathematical computations to determine dosages and  administration frequency. Medication Aides must also be very detail oriented and able to keep careful records in facility and patient files. In addition, Medication Aides must be observant. They are a doctor's eyes and ears and spend much more time with residents than a doctor. Therefore, Medication Aides are the people who are most likely to spot an adverse reaction to medication, or to notice when a course of treatment is or is not working for a resident.


Job prospects for Medication Aides are excellent and the US Department of Labor reports that this is a field that is growing much faster than average. They anticipate up to 20% or more growth in this field between now and 2018. "Employment for nursing aides, orderlies, and attendants will grow 19 percent, faster than the average for all occupations, predominantly in response to the long-term care needs of an increasing elderly population." (source: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos327.htm). The need for long term care is also on the rise as Americans are living longer and often need managed care in their later years. If you love working with people, and enjoy the challenge of assessing needs and working to fulfill those needs, this is the career for you.