News

Whether you’re considering a career as a nursing assistant, or have already established yourself in your career, it’s important to be aware of the important relationships you’ll need to maintain to succeed. From your patients, to your team members and nursing supervisors, your interaction with others is one of the most important, if not the most important, aspects of being a successful CNA.

When you think about all of the tasks and skills you will employ as a nursing assistant, you will realize that almost all of them involve direct contact with people. Relationships with patients are of course critical. Your bedside manner with your patients directly affects their mood, and even their health and recovery. It’s so important to be calm, compassionate, and cheerful as you go about your day. Remember, your patients can be confused, in pain, or just lonely- and you can make them more comfortable with your presence.

Relationships are built on communication skills. Whether you’re working with patients, or talking to another medical professional, keep your communications as accurate and clear as possible. If you need to take notes during the day, do so. As a nursing assistant, you’re most often given the most contact with your patients, and your communications regarding their health and progress will help the entire medical team maximize the patient’s care.

And finally, remember: establishing good relationships will keep you working. Your patient recommendations, your nursing supervisor’s experience with you, and your overall reputation all rest upon building relationships, trust, and communication skills.