Nursing assistants: The backbone of healthcare

Picture this: you’re in a hospital, recovering from surgery. You’re feeling weak and vulnerable and need help with even the most basic tasks. That’s where nursing assistants come in. They are the unsung heroes of the healthcare system, providing compassionate care to patients when they need it most.

So, what exactly does a nursing assistant do?

Nursing assistants provide basic care to patients in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They help patients with tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating. Nursing assistant skills resume include proficiently assisting patients with daily activities, administering medication as prescribed, and effectively communicating with healthcare teams. They also monitor patient vital signs, collect specimens, and report changes to nurses.

But nursing assistants are more than just caregivers.

They are also communicators, educators, and advocates. They build rapport with patients, provide emotional support, and teach patients and families about their care. They also advocate for patients’ rights and ensure they receive the best possible care.

In today’s competitive healthcare job market, a strong resume is essential for nursing assistants.

A well-written nursing assistant skills resume can help you stand out from the competition and land the job you want. This guide will show you how to write a strong nursing assistant resume that will highlight your skills and experience and get you noticed by potential employers.

So, are you ready to start your career as a nursing assistant?

Let’s get started!

Tips for Writing a Strong Nursing Assistant Resume

To create a CNA resume that stands out and increases your chances of getting hired, follow these key tips:

Craft a clean and professional resume by using a clear, easily readable font (such as Arial or Times New Roman) in size 11-12. Utilize bullet points to showcase your skills and experience. Take the time to thoroughly proofread your resume to eliminate any errors.

Tailor your resume and nursing assistant skills resume to each job by carefully reading the job description and identifying keywords. Incorporate these keywords throughout your resume, particularly in your summary and skills section. Highlight the skills and experiences that directly align with the specific job you are applying for.

Include all relevant information, including your contact details, education and training, work experience, skills and abilities, and any certifications or awards that apply to the role.

Make your resume easy to read by using a clear and concise writing style. Utilize white space effectively to ensure your resume is scannable. Avoid using jargon or acronyms that may be unfamiliar to employers.

Seek a second opinion by having someone else review your resume and nursing assistant skills resume. Ask a trusted friend, family member, or career counselor to provide feedback and identify any errors or omissions you may have missed. Additionally, you can utilize tools like ResumeForrest to assist you in this process, offering expert guidance and suggestions for enhancing your resume’s effectiveness.

NB: Remember to use strong action verbs to describe your skills and experience, and whenever possible, quantify your accomplishments. Be specific and detailed about your skills and experience, focusing on the most relevant aspects to the job you are applying for. Incorporate keywords throughout your resume to make it more effective in applicant tracking systems.

Lastly, make sure to proofread your resume and nursing assistant skills resume meticulously to ensure it is error-free.

Key Skills for a nursing assistant skills resume

Crafting a compelling resume for landing your dream job as a nursing assistant requires showcasing key skills effectively.

Here’s a breakdown to help you:

1. Patient Care Skills:

•  Providing Basic Care: This involves assisting patients with daily living activities (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, feeding, toileting, and ambulation.

Examples of this on your nursing assistant skills resume:

Assisted 25 patients with daily living activities per shift, ensuring their comfort, hygiene, and safety.

Developed personalized care plans for patients with varying needs, addressing their individual preferences and limitations.

Provided emotional support and companionship to patients, fostering a positive and caring environment.

• B: Monitoring Vital Signs: Accurately taking and recording temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure is crucial for patient assessment.

Examples of this on your nursing assistant skills resume:

Monitored vital signs for 30 patients daily, reporting any significant changes to the registered nurse promptly.

Utilized appropriate equipment to measure vital signs accurately and efficiently.

Documented vital signs and other patient observations in electronic health records (EHR) for comprehensive care coordination.

• C: Performing Basic First Aid: Responding to minor injuries and emergencies requires quick thinking and practical skills.

Examples of this on your nursing assistant skills resume:

Provided first aid for minor cuts, scrapes, and bruises, following established protocols and ensuring patient safety.

Assisted with administering oxygen to patients experiencing respiratory distress.

• D: Administering Medications: Following medication administration protocols safely and accurately is essential for patient well-being.

Examples of this on your nursing assistant skills resume:

Administered medications orally, topically, and via injections according to physician orders and established procedures.

Double checked medication dosage and labels before administration, ensuring patient safety.

Monitored patients for any adverse reactions to medications and reported them promptly.

• E: Reporting Patient Changes: Observing and communicating any changes in patients’ condition is vital for timely intervention and effective care.

Examples of this on your nursing assistant skills resume:

Closely monitored patients for changes in vital signs, pain levels, appearance, and behavior.

Documented and communicated any observed changes to the registered nurse clearly and concisely.

Advocated for patients’ needs and ensured their concerns were addressed promptly.

2. Communication Skills for nursing assistant skills resume::

• Building Rapport with Patients: Establishing trust and fostering positive relationships with patients is crucial for effective care delivery.

Examples:

Actively listened to patients’ concerns and provided emotional support.

Communicated with patients respectfully and compassionately, considering their cultural backgrounds and individual needs.

• Active Listening: Understanding patients’ needs and concerns through attentive listening is essential for providing quality care.

Examples:

Practiced active listening skills by maintaining eye contact, using encouraging body language, and avoiding interruptions.

Clarified patients’ instructions and ensured their understanding of care plans and procedures.

Empathized with patients’ feelings and acknowledged their concerns with respect and understanding.

• Clear and Concise Communication: Effectively communicating patient information to nurses and other healthcare professionals is crucial for collaborative care.

Examples:

Provided clear and concise reports to nurses regarding patients’ condition, including vital signs, medication administration, and any observed changes.

Documented patient care accurately and comprehensively in EHR for seamless communication and care coordination.

Collaborated effectively with other healthcare team members by sharing information clearly and promptly.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Providing respectful and compassionate care to patients from diverse backgrounds requires cultural awareness and sensitivity.

Examples:

Demonstrated cultural sensitivity by respecting patients’ religious beliefs, cultural practices, and personal preferences.

Adapted communication styles to accommodate patients’ individual needs and communication preferences.

3. Technical Skills for nursing assistant skills resume:

• Proficiency in Medical Equipment: Operating basic medical equipment like thermometers, blood pressure cuffs, stethoscopes, and other devices is essential for patient assessment and care.

Examples:

Utilized various medical equipment accurately and efficiently to gather vital signs and assess patients’ condition.

Maintained and calibrated medical equipment according to established protocols.

Troubleshooted minor equipment malfunctions and reported any issues promptly for timely repair.

• Electronic Health Records (EHR): Maintaining accurate and up-to-date patient records in electronic systems is crucial for efficient data management and care coordination.

Examples:

Utilized EHR software to document patient care, including assessments, vital signs, medications, and progress notes.

Ensured accurate and timely documentation of patient information in EHR to support effective care delivery.

• Infection Control: Practicing proper hand hygiene, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and following infection control protocols is essential to prevent the spread of infections.

Examples:

Maintained proper hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Utilized PPE appropriately when performing tasks that posed a risk of infection, such as wound care or handling body fluids.

Followed established infection control protocols diligently to minimize the risk of infections and protect patients and healthcare workers.

4. Organizational Skills for nursing assistant skills resume:

• Time Management: Prioritizing tasks effectively to manage multiple responsibilities efficiently is crucial in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

Examples:

Prioritized tasks based on patients’ needs and urgency, ensuring timely and efficient care delivery.

Utilized time management tools and techniques to stay organized and meet deadlines.

• Attention to Detail: Maintaining accuracy and thoroughness in all aspects of patient care is essential for patient safety and quality care.

Examples:

Double-checked medication dosages, labels, and administration procedures to ensure patient safety.

Accurately documented patient care in EHR, including assessments, vital signs, medications, and progress notes.

Paid attention to details in patients’ condition and environment, identifying potential risks and taking preventive measures.

• Recordkeeping: Maintaining organized and up-to-date patient charts and documentation is crucial for effective care coordination and communication.

Examples:

Organized patient charts systematically and maintained accurate documentation of all aspects of care.

Communicated patient information effectively with other healthcare team members based on their roles and responsibilities.

5. Additional Skills For nursing assistant skills resume:

• Computer Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software is beneficial for administrative tasks and documentation.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for effective communication with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
• Teamwork skills: Ability to collaborate effectively with other healthcare team members to provide coordinated and comprehensive care to patients.
• Problem Solving: Ability to identify and resolve problems quickly and efficiently in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
• Flexibility: Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work in a flexible and dynamic environment.
• Compassion: Demonstrating empathy and compassion for patients and their families during challenging times.

By highlighting these essential skills and providing specific examples in your resume and nursing assistant skills resume, you’ll demonstrate your competence and value as a nursing assistant to potential employers.

What are the top action verbs you include in your nursing assistant skills resume?

Action Verb	Example Usage
Assisted	Assisted patients with daily activities
Administered	Administered medication as prescribed
Monitored	Monitored patient vital signs
Provided	Provided emotional support to patients
Documented	Documented patient care
Communicated	Communicated effectively with healthcare team
Assessed	Assessed patient condition
Ensured	Ensured patient safety
Supported	Supported patients during procedures
Educated	Educated patients on self-care
Prepared	Prepared patient rooms
Maintained	Maintained cleanliness in patient areas
Reported	Reported changes in patient condition
Responded	Responded to patient emergencies
Transferred	Transferred patients between facilities
Comforted	Comforted patients in distress
Collaborated	Collaborated with other healthcare professionals
Observed	Observed patient behaviors
Served	Served meals to patients
Implemented	Implemented care plans
Escorted	Escorted patients to appointments
Supported	Supported families during difficult times
Facilitated	Facilitated group therapy sessions
Instructed	Instructed patients on exercises
Participated	Participated in interdisciplinary meetings
Updated	Updated patient charts
Adapted	Adapted care plans to patient needs
Trained	Trained new nursing staff
Documented	Documented patient progress

nursing assistant skills resume

CNA skills in a nursing assistant skills resume section

Skills: • Compassionate and empathetic caregiver with a genuine desire to help others • Proficient in medical terminology and procedures, ensuring accurate communication and understanding among healthcare team members • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, enabling effective interaction with patients, families, and colleagues • Strong attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in documentation and patient care tasks • Skilled in using medical equipment and technology, facilitating efficient and safe delivery of care

CNA skills in a resume work experience section

1.Certified Nursing Assistant    Mercy Hospital    2018 – Present    • Demonstrated compassionate care by providing assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, to a diverse caseload of patients on a daily basis.    • Maintained thorough and accurate records of patient information, including vital signs, medication administration, and changes in medical condition, ensuring continuity of care and effective communication among the healthcare team.    • Collaborated closely with registered nurses and physicians to implement care plans, actively participating in interdisciplinary rounds and providing valuable insights on patient progress and needs.    • Utilized critical thinking skills to identify and promptly report any changes or concerns in patients’ conditions, ensuring timely interventions and minimizing potential risks.    • Demonstrated proficiency in utilizing medical equipment and technology, such as electronic health records (EHR) systems and vital sign monitoring devices, effectively streamlining documentation and enhancing patient safety. 2. Nursing Assistant    Hope Rehabilitation Center    2016 – 2018    • Provided compassionate care to elderly residents, fostering a warm and supportive environment that promoted their physical and emotional well-being.    • Assisted residents with mobility and transfers, employing proper body mechanics techniques to ensure their safety and prevent injuries.    • Assisted in the administration of medications and treatments as directed by healthcare professionals, adhering to strict protocols and maintaining accurate records.    • Actively engaged residents in therapeutic activities and exercises, tailored to their individual needs and preferences, to promote physical and cognitive functioning.    • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams, including nurses, therapists, and social workers, to develop and implement comprehensive care plans, resulting in improved resident outcomes and quality of life. 3. Patient Care Assistant    Sunshine Hospital    2014 – 2016    • Provided compassionate and personalized care to patients in a fast-paced hospital setting, ensuring their comfort and dignity.    • Assisted with activities of daily living, including feeding, toileting, and personal hygiene, while maintaining infection control practices.    • Monitored and recorded vital signs, promptly reporting any abnormalities to the nursing staff for further evaluation and intervention.    • Assisted in patient transfers and positioning, utilizing proper techniques and equipment to prevent falls and pressure ulcers.    • Communicated effectively with patients and their families, addressing their concerns, providing emotional support, and educating them on post-discharge care instructions. 4. Home Health Aide    Serenity Home Healthcare Services    2012 – 2014    • Delivered compassionate and individualized care to homebound patients, assisting with activities of daily living, medication management, and rehabilitation exercises.    • Conducted regular assessments of patients’ physical and mental well-being, promptly reporting any changes or concerns to the supervising nurse.    • Provided companionship and emotional support to patients, improving their overall quality of life and fostering a sense of trust and security.    • Assisted in meal preparation, ensuring proper nutrition and adherence to dietary restrictions as prescribed by healthcare professionals.    • Collaborated with the healthcare team to develop and implement personalized care plans, resulting in improved patient outcomes and satisfaction. 5. Rehabilitation Aide    Harmony Rehabilitation Center    2010 – 2012    • Supported the rehabilitation team in delivering high-quality therapy services to patients recovering from injuries or surgeries.    • Assisted patients with therapeutic exercises and activities, ensuring proper form and technique to maximize their progress and prevent injuries.    • Prepared treatment areas and equipment, maintaining cleanliness and organization to create a safe and conducive environment for therapy sessions.    • Documented patient progress and communicated observations to therapists, actively participating in interdisciplinary meetings to contribute to treatment planning.    • Provided encouragement and emotional support to patients, motivating them to achieve their rehabilitation goals and regain independence.

certified nursing assistant skills resume example

Khaled Khedr 456 Oak Avenue, Springfield, IL, 62701 (555) 555-5555 khaledkhedr@example.com Objective Highly dedicated and compassionate Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with a proven track record of delivering exceptional patient care. Skilled in assisting with activities of daily living, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring a safe and hygienic environment. Seeking a challenging position where I can leverage my excellent communication and teamwork abilities to contribute to the well-being and comfort of patients. Skills: – Patient Care: Proficient in assisting with bathing, grooming, and dressing, ensuring patient dignity and comfort. – Vital Signs Monitoring: Demonstrated expertise in accurately measuring and documenting vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and oxygen saturation. – Infection Control: Thorough knowledge of infection control protocols, employing rigorous hand hygiene and utilizing personal protective equipment (PPE) effectively. – Effective Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, adept at actively listening to patients, addressing their concerns, and collaborating seamlessly with the healthcare team. – Documentation: Meticulous in maintaining accurate and up-to-date patient records, ensuring seamless care coordination and facilitating effective communication among the interdisciplinary team. – Compassion and Empathy: Exhibits deep compassion and empathy towards patients, fostering trust, providing emotional support, and promoting their overall well-being. – Teamwork: Collaborates seamlessly with healthcare professionals, actively participating in care planning and interdisciplinary rounds, fostering a cohesive and patient-centered care environment. – Problem-Solving: Adaptable and resourceful in handling complex situations, employing critical thinking skills to identify solutions and maintaining professionalism in fast-paced healthcare settings. Education and Certification:  Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), American Red Cross, 2020 Nursing Assistant Training Program, Springfield Healthcare Training Center, 2019 Experience: Memorial Hospital, Los Angeles, CA Certified Nursing Assistant, 2018 – Present – Assisted nursing staff in providing comprehensive patient care, including bathing, dressing, and feeding, ensuring patient comfort and maintaining their dignity. – Monitored vital signs regularly, accurately documenting and promptly reporting any significant changes to the nursing team. – Maintained a safe and hygienic patient environment, strictly adhering to infection control protocols, and effectively managing waste disposal. – Assisted patients with mobility and transfers, utilizing proper body mechanics and ensuring patient safety during movement. – Actively communicated with patients and their families, addressing their queries, providing emotional support, and fostering a trusting relationship. References: Available upon request

FAQ Aabout nursing assistant skills resume

  Why is being detail-oriented important for nursing assistants in providing patient care?

 Being detail-oriented ensures accuracy in tasks such as medication administration and documentation, promoting patient safety and preventing complications.

How crucial is effective communication in fulfilling the responsibilities outlined in a nursing assistant skills resume?

 Effective communication enables nursing assistants to understand patient needs, provide instructions, and collaborate with the healthcare team, ensuring coordinated and quality care delivery.

 What are the key infection control protocols that nursing assistants should be trained in?

 Nursing assistants should receive training in hand hygiene, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and adherence to standard and isolation precautions.

 How do nursing assistants contribute to patient safety in healthcare settings?

 Nursing assistants contribute to patient safety by assisting with activities of daily living, following medication protocols, promptly reporting concerns, and maintaining a clean and safe environment.

 What types of medical equipment and technology do nursing assistants commonly use?

 Nursing assistants commonly use equipment such as blood pressure monitors, pulse oximeters, thermometers, and technology like electronic health record (EHR) systems.

 How do nursing assistants collaborate with the healthcare team to provide quality patient care?

 Nursing assistants collaborate by communicating patient information, participating in interdisciplinary rounds, and assisting in care planning and treatments.

 What is the significance of maintaining accurate patient records as a nursing assistant?

 Accurate patient records ensure continuity of care, facilitate communication, support decision-making, and meet regulatory requirements.

 How do nursing assistants handle challenging situations while maintaining professionalism?

 Nursing assistants maintain professionalism by staying calm, following protocols, practicing active listening and empathy, seeking support, and prioritizing patient well-being.