Blog and Articles

Everyone knows doctors work from hospitals or offices where they see their patients every once in a while and dole out prescriptions and diagnoses.  Nurses work alongside these doctors, meeting with patients when the patients have a specific need.  But what about the times when there is not one specific need but a condition that needs taken care of daily?  Who is there when someone needs the constant help of a medical professional just to make it through the day?  That is where a State Tested Nurses Aide, or an STNA, steps in.  An STNA doesn’t offer the gift of life; they offer the gift of living.

What is an STNA? An STNA is an individual who helps patients with mental or physical impairments or other health concerns with daily life.  They may work with patients in hospitals, nursing homes or even in patients’ homes, allowing them better manage their lives.  Though under-recognized and often overlooked, a State Tested Nurses Aide is a crucial part to any medical team and necessary to people everywhere.

The many tasks of an STNA may include the taking and recording of vital signs, recording and reporting of a patient’s well-being, and helping a patient with everyday tasks such as bathing, eating, or shopping.  Essentially, an STNA is the first line of defense in the medical field when helping people with ongoing medical concerns.

Finding the difference between an STNA and any other person helping a patient is as easy as looking at their title.  An STNA is state tested and therefore, is regulated to make sure they are competent.  Someone helping a patient may have the right intentions but an STNA has the right training.  Additionally, an STNA will also probably be wearing scrubs.

Aside from the ability to dramatically help those in need, one of the best things about becoming an STNA is how quickly you can launch into a career in nursing.  A course can take as little as two and a half weeks, which can get you out and working very quickly.  As far as jobs go, there are few nearly as rewarding as that of an STNA. Check out how to become an STNA today!

If you are interested in becoming a highly visible member of a healthcare team that provides excellent, compassionate care to the ailing, disabled, elderly, and/or injured in their homes, hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities, a career as a State Tested Nurse Aide would be rewarding career for you!

Becoming a STNA is easier to achieve than you may think. The training required to become a state tested nursing assistant includes classroom learning, as well as clinical training. Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to take the State required test. Once you pass the State test, you will be listed in the State’s nurse aide registry as being eligible to work as a STNA within the state.

Premier Choice Health Services’ STNA training program consists of a 75-hour course comprised of 59 hours of classroom learning and 16 hours of clinical experience at a long-term care facility. It is an excellent program that more-than-adequately prepares an individual to take the State text successfully. Better yet, after successful completion of the STNA classes training program, participants get unlimited free review and are eligible to take the state certification exam.

Attending PCHS’ STNA program is also easy on the budget! Their STNA program is the most affordable in the region at only $395.00, which includes books and materials. Better yet, PCHS has financial aid available through Ohio Job and Family Services and all county and local offices that provide assistance to individuals looking to obtain or advance in a career.

Another affordable option is their 90-day No Credit Check Student Loan Program. All that you need to qualify are:

●     Valid Checking Account

●     Valid Driver’s License, State ID or Military ID

●     Proof of Employment or Income

You create a convenient payment plan that can be paid over a 90-day period with the affordable payments automatically deducted from your checking account.

What are you waiting for? Contact Premier Choice Health Services to enroll in STNA classes in Columbus Ohio today. Before you know it, you will be in a rewarding career as a STNA!

State Tested Nurse Aides must receive certification from the state where they wish to work. STNAs who do not renew their certification prior to the expiration date cannot work as a STNA until they fulfill the requirements to have certification reinstated. In most states, a STNA certification must be renewed every two years. However, what happens if your STNA certification has expired? What can you do to get recertified?

According to the State of Ohio, if an individual wishes to remain on the nurse aide registry as eligible to work as a STNA but is not eligible because more than 24 consecutive months have passed since the last date of verified work, the individual must do one of the following:

● Submit documentation showing that you have provided at least seven and one-half consecutive hours or eight hours in a 48-hour period of nursing and nursing-related services for compensation during a 24-month period; or

● Successfully complete additional training and competency evaluation.

Premier Choice Health Services’ STNA training courses are recognized as the cream of the crop and are comprised of a more-than-adequate classroom and clinical skills training. This is the reason their graduation and successful state-testing rates are the highest in the region. But if you find yourself in a situation where your STNA certification has expired, PCHS’ refresher courses are equally designed to provide everything that you need on your road to recertification.

If your STNA certification has expired or you feel you could benefit from one-on-one help to brush up your skills and techniques to ensure you successfully conquer the State’s STNA test to regain your certification, contact PCHS today!

Loneliness is defined as feeling left out or isolated or lacking companionship. Let’s face it, no one likes to be alone, but unfortunately for the elderly, loneliness is lethal. Recent research suggests that loneliness leads to deteriorating health and even earlier-than-expected death. The fact that seniors are living among others doesn’t mean they will not succumb to loneliness. Almost two-thirds of seniors in the research conducted by the University of California San Francisco reported feeling lonely even though they were married or living with a partner.

As people age, they sometimes find themselves facing an illness, separation from family, a disability, or simply a loss of skills necessary to accomplish the daily tasks of living they are accustomed to. The transition from one’s home to a nursing facility often leaves the elderly feeling useless, depressed and unimportant. Hiring a home health service for seniors is a great way to not only give them someone to talk to throughout the day but also allow them to be independent in their own home.

 Home Health Aides and State Tested Nurse Aides make a difference in the lives of elderly patients and help them combat loneliness in the following ways:

●     Offer emotional support by listening attentively with patience and compassion.

●     Instead of criticizing the feelings expressed, redirect their focus on the positive and offer them hope.

●     Render excellent care utilizing the most up-to-date skills and technique.

●     Communicate clearly with other medical professionals involved, such as doctors, nurses, specialists, and even the patient’s family, to ensure he/she receives accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

●     Last, but certainly not least, offer moral support.

At Premier Choice Health Services, we provide individuals with the skills and tools necessary to provide attentive health assistance to the elderly and the know-how to make a difference in their lives. If you, too, have a passion for senior care and are interested in nurse assistant training, contact Premier Choice Health Services for more information on their Home Health Aide (HHA) and State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) programs.

Are you certified in First Aid or CPR? If your answer is “no,” then why not? Premier Choice Health Services (PCHS) has available excellent first aid training programs for teaching you how to respond in emergency situations and to save lives. The knowledge and skills you gain from first aid classes with PCHS are invaluable. Regardless of your occupation, if you care for children or elderly people, or even spend time at a health facility, you should seriously consider getting certified in CPR and First Aid. If your certification has expired, no sense in waiting… get started today!

What is CPR? CPR is the acronym for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is performed on people who are suffering cardiac arrest.

What are the benefits of CPR? Performing CPR provides a continuous flow of oxygen to the lungs, as well as the brain, until medical help arrives or the person regains consciousness. It is crucial to keep in mind that the brain can only survive about five minutes without oxygen. After that, permanent damage takes place in the brain. By knowing how to perform CPR after you complete your first aid and CPR course, you are increasing the chances of recovery for someone who experiences cardiac arrest. You in essence can save their life!

PCHS’ first aid and CPR classes are offered every other Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., and are designed to give you the confidence to respond to most all emergency situations with skills that can save lives. How much do first aid classes cost? At PCHS, the cost is $55. The class is approved through the American Heart Association (AMA) and the certification lasts two years allowing you to perform CPR and first aid on adults, children, as well as infants.

Get certified today! It can mean life or death for a client, patient, family member or friend!

Premier Choice Health Services (PCHS) certified nurses aide training courses provide everything you need – from start to finish – to become a HHA or STNA.

●     Receive the highest caliber of classes that offer the education and skills necessary to become a HHA or STNA.

●     Affordable payment plans, student loans, and financial aid are available.

●     Receive help with, and thorough preparation for, the required State testing to become an STNA or HHA.

●     Receive assistance with job placement after obtaining your State licensure.

Premier Choice Health Services simply is the one-stop shop for everything one needs to become a top-notch HHA or STNA. If you are looking to make a career change or find viable employment, you don’t have to look any further than PCHS.

STNA COURSE

PCHS’ STNA training classes make up a two and a half week program, consisting of a total 75 hours. Fifty-nine hours are spent in the classroom and 16 of the hours are utilized for clinical experience in a long-term care facility. PCHS nurse’s aide program thoroughly prepares you for the State Board Exam for Nurse Aides (STNA), as well as producing individuals who are highly trained, competent, and able to perform the job of a STNA in a in either patients’ homes, long-term care facilities, hospitals, assisted living facilities or hospice care. Even after successfully completing your STNA classes at PCHS, students receive unlimited free review and help with taking the state exam.

 HHA COURSE

PCHS also offers certification HHA (Home Health Aide) classes. The HHA course prepares individuals to be able to work in a range of settings, primarily patients’ homes. HHA’s may also work in assisted living or long-term care facilities. PCHS’ HHA course program consists of 60 hours of classes and no clinical training.

 Whether you choose to become a HHA or STNA, all that is required to get started with Premier Choice Health Services is a completed admission application and proper identification. For more information, to register for your nurse’s aide classes, or to learn more about all the programs available, contact PCHS today!

In the past few years, the nation has certainly been clawing its way out of a deep economic pit left by the Great Recession. However, one career field is already out of the abyss and thriving well: Healthcare. Therefore, it is no surprise that the growth in healthcare jobs is plus for current and future State Tested Nursing Assistants (STNA).

 More and more clinics, doctors’ offices, hospital expansions, and nursing centers have mushroomed coast to coast to meet a higher demand from aging baby boomers and the advances in medical technology. In fact, the healthcare industry now dominates the rankings as one of the major employers in some of the largest urban areas, as well as in outlying rural towns.

 The U.S. Labor Department reported that from June 2009 through April of this year, the healthcare field added some 770,000 employees to the payroll. That is about one-third of all new jobs. That is astounding! So, it makes sense that the present and future need for healthcare does (and will) fuel job growth for STNA’s .

 The Labor Department agrees. Although healthcare fields involves a broad spectrum of jobs, the industry’s fastest-growing occupations are STNA’s and HHA’s. It is expected those jobs will increase about 70 percent nationwide to 3.2 million by the end of the decade from 1.9 million in 2010.

 If you’re looking to give yourself steady employment and job security, consider taking STNA classes at your local Columbus area nurse’s aide training center.

 So why wait? Get started on a rewarding career as a STNA today so you, too, can reap the benefits of a rewarding career and receive a respected income. Contact the friendly staff at Premier Choice Health Services to register for our STNA classes in Columbus, Ohio. PCHS is highly regarded in the region as the best training program that prepares individuals with the necessary education and skills needed to become a STNA who provides quality care for patients in clinics, long-term facilities, hospitals, and homes.

Considering the special skills and expertise that are required to be successful in the health care field, it is vital that your STNA resume reflect your knowledge, training and experience, while at the same time clearly define the type of individual you are.  The STNA work experience section on the resume should emphasize your education and skills, but it is also important to emphasize your personality and your ability to empathize with patients, families and colleagues.

Here are a few suggestions to creating a superb resume for an STNA professional:

Narrative Statement

Begin with a narrative statement presenting the main reason why you should be called for an interview and what makes you perfect for the nurse’s aide job. Here are some following statements that can be used in your narrative statement:

●        “I remain calm and professional during times of critical need.”

●        “I readily develop rapport with patients, staff and physicians.”

●        “I hold a proven record of reliability and responsibility.”

Don’t be modest. You should build yourself up!

Education

Next, list your nurse’s aide education, training, and licensure, as well as academic honors, scholarships and extracurricular activities.  Be sure to list all the schools you have attended since high school.  It is highly recommended that if you are a new graduate, such as from Premier Choice Health Services STNA program, it is better to place the “Education” section before the “Experience” section on your resume.

Experience

List contact information for your former employer(s) and how many years you worked there. Indicate why you left the company.  For example, “Went back to school.” Describe the job duties held at each position and how you went beyond your responsibilities to help your employer or department, such as improved work flow, enhanced client/customer/patient satisfaction, trained employees, built positive relationships, etc., and include any accomplishments you received, such as “Employee of the Month.”

All in all, being a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) is as much about your character traits, as the nursing skills you possess. Therefore, your resume should reflect your ability to perform your job at the highest level.  As you prepare your resume, keep in mind that as a STNA what you do and how you perform your job duties is vital and beneficial to patients and their families.

Interested in training to become a nurse’s aide or polishing your nursing skills with additional coursework? Contact our team today to get signed up for affordable and effective STNA courses today.

The U.S. Department of Labor classifies Home Health Aides (HHA) as persons who “provide routine individualized healthcare such as changing bandages and dressing wounds, and applying topical medications to the elderly, convalescents, or persons with disabilities at the patient’s home or in a care facility.  Monitor or report changes in health status.  May also provide personal care such as bathing, dressing, and grooming of patient.” (Source: U.S. Dept. of Labor, 31-1011 Home Health Aides.) In simple terms, a HHA provides patients with basic care that includes anything to do with health services and personal care that benefits not only the patients, but their family members and friends, as well, by providing them needed support.

However, to be a great Home Health Aide, a person must have a genuine passion for helping others and have an interest in healthcare.  It takes the right type of attitude to work as a Home Health Aide., as there is a wide variety of people that a HHA will be caring for, such as the elderly, hospice patients, physically disabled individuals, convalescent men and women, as well as children and adults with mental illness or disability.

Therefore, the right candidate must possess specific traits and skills in order to succeed, such as:

●        Compassion

●        Patience

●        Good communication

●        Sensitivity

●        Empathy/Sympathy

●        Dependability

●        Friendship

●        Confidentiality

●        Physical Strength

Becoming a Home Health Aide is a wonderful way to climb out of a career rut and into a great profession where you can interact with caring and compassionate atmosphere. If you are searching for a growing and stable career; want to improve the quality of life for others, where each day on the jobs brings new challenges and rewards, then a career as a HHA may be perfect for you!  This career choice involves HHA training and home health aide classes to prepare you for this challenging career.

Premier Choice Health Services is highly regarded as the best resource for training Home Health Aides. If you are a reliable, competent and caring person looking for a fulfilling career as a HHA, contact PCHS today to get started in obtaining the required training at the most affordable cost so you, too, can become a Home Health Aide!  Our HHA classes start on a regular basis – get started today.

If you or a loved one is coping with the daily challenges, physical, and emotional effects of a disability, Premier Choice Development Disabilities (PCDD) can help!   Premier Choice Health Services is excited to announce the launching of PCDD.  The new expansion allows PCDD to assist people with developmental disabilities; help them fulfill their goals; improve their quality of living; encourage learning, working, socializing, and maintaining independence within their community.

Likewise, the services PCDD offer is designed to promote the physical, mental and emotional well-being of disabled children and adults. It is PCDD’s belief that individuals with developmental disabilities are entitled to the same freedom to plan their own lives as are individuals who are not disabled.  PCDD assists disabled individuals in maximizing their potential for wellness and independent living, while simultaneously offering support to family members.

By following the PCHS high caliber of excellence, PCDD is committed to providing a continuum of care that includes:

●        Medication management

●        Implementation of clinical care plans

●        Assistance with mobility

●        Light housekeeping

●        Providing companionship

●        Reinforcement of therapy goals/interventions

●        Educating of patient and/or family on medication and disease processes

No two patients are the same.  That is why PCDD works and communicates with not only the patient, but with the family and/or medical team to assess the needs of the patient and to create an individualized plan of care.  PCDD’s highly skilled staff is ready and willing to provide immediate and effective care designed to support the disabled individual and meet their specific care needs in the comfortable and familiar surroundings of their home.

For more information on the PCDD services for those with developmental disabilities provided by Premier Choice Health Services, contact our office today!

Between 1946 and 1964, the United States experienced a huge increase in birth-rate.  In fact, it is the largest in U.S. history. Men and women born during this period are called “Baby Boomers,” and they currently represent 28% of today’s population.  This is significant for all people considering a career as a Home Health Aide or State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) in the state of Ohio.

Why? Today, baby boomers are aging and in the latter stages of life (between 48 and 66 years of age).  Older patients have different needs for healthcare services than younger patients.  In addition, soaring medical costs and advanced medical care available mean patients are no longer spending days, weeks, or months in hospitals.  Often times, they are treated, stabilized, and then sent to a nursing facility or their home to rehabilitate or recuperate.

Forbes lists the health care field in the ten most recession-proof jobs.  Similarly, they also predict a shortage due to aging baby boomers and advances in medicine.  “Patients who wouldn’t have survived cancer or HIV 10 years ago are living longer thanks to new medical breakthroughs, but they require more long-term treatment.” (Forbes, July 19, 2008)  Not only are job opportunities in this field widely available now, but the demand for HHA’s and STNA’s are expected to increase even more.  In fact, the job growth in this field is estimated to exceed the average of all other occupations.

As you can see, a career as a HHA or SNTA is a recession-proof career.  Baby Boomers are going to significantly impact the nursing home and health care industry.  There is a need for certified nurse’s aides, HHAs and STNAs in almost every city in Ohio today.  With excellent nursing training from an accredited school, such as Premier Choice Health Services, and experience, you will be able to advance your career in no time.  Get on board now by signing up for an affordable STNA training program in Columbus, to ensure a lucrative rewarding career that improves the quality of lives of so many!

If you have decided on a career as a STNA in Ohio, the first thing that needs to be done is finding a good state tested nurse’s aide school to do your training program.  As you search for the top courses offered by a local school, you may come across various titles that are used for this training that may confuse you.  Have no worry, they all mean the same thing.  Nurse aides go by many names depending on the location or state you live.  For instance, you may find nurse’s aide schools for patient care technician, certified nursing assistant, or state-testing nurse aide (STNA).   The training will enable you to work with other health care professionals to provide care to patients of all ages in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, rehabilitation centers, and private homes.

The top factors to look for in choosing the best STNA programs are:

State Accreditation: Only look at schools that are accredited with the state of Ohio.  Accreditation means that the school has met the state regulations, as well as nursing commissions, such as the Nursing Accreditation Commission or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.   

Clinical and Classroom Experience: The top accredited STNA programs  will offer its students ample classroom and clinical instruction covering topics such as infection control, physiology, psychology, advanced patient care, nutrition, and basic health care.

Affordability: Tuition is a very important factor.  Programs run from several hundred to a thousand dollars.  A reputable STNA school will afford its students a variety of options, financial aid, and convenient payment plans.

Top-Notch Instructors: Research the school’s faculty.  You definitely want to be taught by the best.  High caliber nurse’s aide programs will have instructors who are competent, caring, well-trained professionals; instructors who meet the state of Ohio’s educational and training requirements.

Whatever nursing program you decide on you must pass the designated state exam to receive your STNA certification and be registered with the state. Therefore choose the program that will see you through the Ohio testing process successfully.  There are several programs out there claiming to offer “prep” courses for state exams, but they are not comprehensive.  A top STNA school, such as Premier Choice Health Services, offers the comprehensive, individualized education that guarantee a high student success rate.

“Nurse Aide” means an individual who provides nursing and nursing-related services to residents in a long-term care facility, other than a licensed health professional practicing within the scope of his or her license or an individual who provides nursing or nursing-related services as a volunteer without monetary compensation.” (OAC 3701-17-07.1 (A)(3))

“Nurse Aides must complete a training program and pass a knowledge test and a clinical skills test before they can be registered in Michigan. … Upon successful completion of both tests, an applicant is issued a certificate by Prometric that allows them to work as a certified nurse aide (CNA) for two years.” (State of Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs)

As mandated by the federal government, all states maintain a registry of individuals who have met all the criteria mandated by that state, which includes obtaining training through an accredited school/program, such as Premier Choice Health Services, and passing a state-mandated written and skills test.  The registry contains a list of individuals that are certified to work in long-term facilities, hospitals, doctor’s offices, clinics, and homes as a nursing assistant.  If your name is not included in your state’s registry, you cannot legally work as a nurse aide (regardless of the title given by another state, person, school, or employer).

Below are titles and acronyms used by various states across the county and links to the respective state’s nurse aide registry:

●        Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Michigan, New York and Virginia.

●        Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Delaware, Florida and Maine.

●        Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) in New Hampshire.

●        Nurse Aide (NA) in Connecticut, New Jersey and Tennessee.

●        Nurse Aide I and Nurse Aide II in North Carolina.

●        Nursing Assistant (NA) in Maryland, Rhode Island and West Virginia.

●        State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) in Ohio.

If you are a nurse aide in good standing and certified in your state and want to transfer your certification to another state, you must contact the state you are moving to and obtain the appropriate verification forms.  Be sure to inquire as to the fees (if any) and any additional documentation that may be required.  It is highly suggested that you do so far in advance of the move so that your certification does not lapse or become invalid. If you’re interested in starting your STNA career in Ohio or CNA training in Michigan, contact Premier Choice Health Services today.

When a STNA starts a new assignment, it is a time of enthusiasm and excitement, but it’s also a time that can be filled with anxiety. With careful planning and preparation, you can easily transition into your new work environment with confidence. Below are some helpful tips to assist you on your first day of the job.

1. Get an extra head start on your shift, always accounting for traffic. If you arrive early, you can walk around and get a feel for the facility or home.
2. If assigned to a facility or hospital, check in with the human resources department before you go to the unit.
3. Introduce yourself to the staff and/or to your patient(s).
4. Take notes and never be afraid to ask questions.
5. Work your day utilizing the skills learned at Premier Choice Health Services, such as assessing patients, tending to their hygiene and nutrition, housekeeping, administering medications, and basic nursing care.
6. Be observant. Keep your eyes on the experts assigned to your unit or home setting. A lot can be learned by watching how they handle medical situations, difficult patients, and interaction with others.
7. Avoid office politics or gossip. Since you are new, others may try to pull you into office politics or gossip. Instead, focus on your responsibilities and assignments. When asked to respond, do so in a professional manner.
8. Look into continuing-ed classes offered by the facility. Take advantage of every learning opportunity they offer.
9. If you get overwhelmed or frustrated, don’t give up on yourself or the facility. Every assignment is different and you should allow time to get adjusted.
10. At the end of the day, breathe a deep sigh, reflect on the people you helped and go home to rest up for tomorrow.

Keep in mind that having earned your STNA certification, you have the ability to change the lives of so many people by enhancing their quality of life each and every day. That alone should ease any STNA’s first-day jitters!

As technology advances and new processes are developed in the medical field, it is crucial that those working in the field keep their skills and expertise current. This includes STNAs who have graduated from a training program and are already working in a facility, center, or home. A reputable and accredited STNA training program that keeps up with the innovations in the medical field, such as that offered at Premier Choice Health Services, welcome their graduates back to hone the skills they once learned or to renew their CPR or First Aid certification. In fact, PCHS offers CPR Classes specifically for that purpose.

The role of the STNA as part of a patient’s core health care team is becoming increasingly important and the demands on their knowledge and skills are rapidly increasing. Employers and home health care agencies are screaming for more qualified staff and will jump at the chance to recruit well trained STNAs for available positions in a variety of health care settings. Therefore, STNAs, new and old, should take every opportunity to enhance, solidify, and further their patient care knowledge and skills in order to remain efficient and competitive in today’s rapidly advancing health care system.

Likewise, STNAs should always grab the opportunity to hone their communication and people-skills. In fact, a STNA who takes pride in what he or she does never loses the desire to learn more.  It is crucial that STNAs understand applicable state laws and regulations regarding their job, as well as maintain a good grasp on skills and knowledge regarding patient care and procedures.  Keeping up to date on the laws and mastering the various skills provided in STNA training programs provides a solid base from which to grow in this modern health care system.

If you feel you could use a refresher course to bring your STNA certification, knowledge and skills up to date, Premier Choice Health Services, would be delighted to have you in class.  Give them a call today!

Bedside manner is of utmost importance. As an STNA you may be asked to tend to and care for elderly and ailing patients in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and patients’ own homes.  Regardless of the environment, the pace is usually demanding, fast-paced, and not always peaceful.  It can certainly be challenging. No matter how exhausted one may get, a STNA should possess an inviting and friendly demeanor around their patients at all times.  If patients feel comfortable and secure, they will communicate more about their lives, their health, and their concerns.  They will also be more willing to listen when medical issues are explained to them.  An old adage serves a STNA well regarding bedside manner:  Stop (take time to engage in conversation with your patient). Look (give the patient your full attention). Listen (patiently heed what and how the patient expresses his/her concerns).

Open and clear communication is a must. Just as it is crucial for a STNA to maintain an excellent bedside manner, it is equally important for them to be able to communicate effectively with doctors, specialists, nurses, and technicians.  Communication may be in the form of accurately documenting patient charts, relaying precise information to medical staff via the telephone, or confidently speaking to other medical staff members in person.  Having great rapport with the medical staff will ensure your assigned patients will receive optimal care.

STNAs are the bridge between patients and medical staff. Just as ambassadors around the world carry messages from one country to another; STNAs serve as ambassadors among patients, patients’ families, and medical staff in the facility or home in which they work. Maintaining good relationships is vital to maintaining open communication and enhancing the level of medical care provided to patients.  Not to mention, the ability to be an amicable “ambassador” will place you in high regard as a respected and skilled STNA.

If you’re interested in starting an STNA training program or advancing your skills and knowledge, enroll in the STNA Classes offered by Premier Choice Health Services today and get ready to put your bedside manner to great use!

Without a doubt, STNAs earn every cent of their pay.  STNAs make up a unique community of caring health professionals who provide a variety of services to clients in hospitals, clinics, assisted living facilities and homes, with a tenacious spirit that brings them recognition and respect.  For this reason, STNAs wages are in no way meager.  In fact, the wages are substantial when compared with the average salaries of other occupations in today’s economy.

For example, in central Ohio, the wages for a State Tested Nursing Assistant range from the low end at $18,000.00 (for a beginning Home Health Aide), to the high end of $51,000.00 (for a Home Health Aide in a Hospice unit).  There are many other positions, such as Supported Living Specialists and Nurse Technicians, whose wages fall in between.

It gets better!  In addition to an ample base annual salary, STNAs receive a myriad of benefits that, when translated into a monetary value, really add a substantial increase to his or her annual compensation package to an average tune of $40,000.00.  Here are some of the typical benefits often provided as perks to STNAs:  Social Security, 401k, Vacation Pay, Sick Days, Personal Days, Disability Insurance, Medical Insurance, and Pension Plans.  When you add all the benefits with the base salary, one sees that they are earning an impressive compensation package with substantial security for future retirement.

Security is most important; vocational security and financial security.  As a STNA, so many doors are available to be opened.  Doors  that lead to higher level positions, such as LPN, RN, DO, MD, to just name a few, based upon a person’s initiative, drive, and focus to achieve.   STNAs have a diverse amount of opportunities to gain hands-on experience while gaining an excellent grasp on the inner workings of the medical profession.

Lastly, but certainly not the least, it is important to emphasize that the need for STNAs continually grows each year.  More and more people are living longer due to the progressive improvement of health care in our country.  This simply means job security for STNAs, as the elderly population will enlarge and expand.   STNAs are basically guaranteed as much work as they want, so long as he or she demonstrates the proficiency, the want, and the skill of the profession.

Nursing assistant is one of the most diverse careers coming and going.  One minute he or she could be registering patients and the next be drawing blood.  It’s a career that rarely dull and often hopping.  Yet, working as a nursing assistant can provide you with a great opportunity to explore the field of medicine.  You will have many opportunities to interact with a variety of other medical professionals and technicians, not to mention many opportunities to watch, listen, and learn.

Nursing assistants work hand-in-hand with doctors, nurses, and administrators, often serving a vital and essential role as liaison between doctor and patient.  As a matter of fact, no facility, hospital, clinic or practice could run efficiently without trained nursing assistants.  They are great communicators, and versatile providers of emotional and physical support to clients and patients.

Through the avenue as a nursing assistant, you will gain vital skills in care giving, grow in hands-on experience, and, as in many cases, possibly be inspired to pursue a medical degree or establish a career in an upper level field.  Needless to say, working as a nursing assistant affords you, most of all, an opportunity to gain a perspective of the world of medicine and all those it serves.

Yet, the world of medicine is vast and wide.  Contained within it is a vast array of titles, specialties, and positions.  So, use your time as a nursing assistant wisely.  Do not be afraid to ask medical professionals and technicians in other areas questions. Engage with them.  Get to know what they do, why they do it and who they serve. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore areas in the medical field that is more befitting to you and your goals.

You do not have to have a doctor’s degree to have a fulfilling career in the healthcare field. All you need is a desire to serve and to bring a compassionate and caring touch to the lives of patients, often when they need it the most.

Once you have received your STNA certification, your medical education does not end.  In fact, it is not only a State law, but Federal law, that you be provided with ongoing medical education by the hospital, clinic, nursing home, or facility that employs you.

The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 (OBRA 87) orders nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living facilities throughout the nation to provide regular-in-service education for nurse aides. Specifically, the law requires the facility to complete a performance review of every nurse not less than once a year.  Facilities are also required to provide at least 12 hours of in-service education per year to STNAs for the purpose of addressing identifiable needs that appear from the reviews.

Likewise, Ohio Administrative Code §3701-17-07.1 (K), follows the Federal law to the “T.”  It specifically states:

“… each long-term care facility shall provide all of the following to each nurse aide it uses:

(2) Regular performance review to assure that individuals working in the facility as nurse aides are competent to perform the nursing and nursing-related services they perform. Performance reviews shall be conducted at least ninety days after the nurse aide completes successfully the competency evaluation program conducted by the director under division (C) of section 3721.31 of the Revised Code and the applicable rules of Chapter 3701-18 of the Administrative Code or commences work in the facility and annually thereafter. The performance review shall consist, at minimum, of an evaluation of the nurse aide’s working knowledge and clinical performance and shall be conducted by the aide’s immediate supervisor or a nurse designated by the facility to conduct the performance evaluations. The facility shall maintain a written record of each performance review; and

(3) Regular in-service education, both in groups and, as necessary in specific situations, on a one-to-one basis, based on the outcome of performance reviews required by paragraph (K)(2)(a) of this rule. For the purposes of this provision, “specialty unit” means a discrete part of the nursing home that houses residents who have common specialized care needs, including, but not limited to, dementia care, hospice care, and mental health care units.

(a) Formal in-service education shall include an instructional presentation and may include skills demonstration with return demonstration and in-service training. In-service training may be provided on the unit as long as it is directed toward skills improvement, is provided by trained individuals and is documented.

(b) In-service education shall be sufficient to ensure the continuing competence of nurse aides and address areas of weakness as determined in nurse aides’ performance reviews and shall address the special needs of residents as determined by the facility staff. It also shall include, but is not limited to, training for nurse aides providing nursing and nursing-related services to residents with cognitive impairment. The in-service education for nurse aides working in specialty units shall address the special needs of the residents in the unit.

(c) The facility shall assure that each nurse aide receives at least twelve hours of formal in-service education each year and that each nurse aide who works in a specialty unit receives sufficient additional hours of training each year to meet the special needs of the residents of that specialty unit. In-service education may be obtained through web-based training programs. For purposes of this paragraph, the year within which a nurse aide must receive continuing education is calculated based on the commencement of employment.”

The nitty-gritty is in-service training is necessary to maintain a valid STNA certificate, as well as ensure your continuing proficiency and expertise.  Any way you look at it, ongoing medical training is a win-win situation for you.  The continued education increases your skills as a top-notch STNA and it is afforded to you by your employer at no cost to you, as mandated by both Federal and State laws.

For the best employment opportunities, be prepared and plan ahead.

“This is a mock job interview to get them ready for entry level jobs.

Hopefully, when they apply for their dream jobs,

they will be more prepared.” ~Kathy Garibay

It is absolutely normal to be anxious and stressing about job interviews. However, if you take the time to prepare, practice and plan, prior to showing up for the interview, the interview process will go smooth and easy. Here are some tips and suggestions:

Start off right. Staffing agencies typically give a resume 30 seconds to decide whether to interview or place the candidate. It is also important to note that your appearance is crucial to a successful interview. Have you heard the old adage, “first impressions are the most lasting?” When you appear for an interview, dress conservatively and well groomed.

Ask colleagues. Acquire tips and suggestions from your colleagues regarding their interview experience. Ask them to participate in mock (practice) interviews with you. This will help you prepare for anticipated questions the interviewer may ask. Here are some topics most always asked during a job interview:

Questions about you.

Questions regarding your work history.

Questions about the subject company.

Questions regarding your future plans.

Behavior-based questions.

Do research. Take the time to research your potential employer and make a list of relevant questions to ask them. It gives the impression you are interested and serious about becoming an employee of their company. At some point, the interviewer may offer you time to ask him/her questions. Below are some questions you may want to ask the interviewer.

How long have some of your best STNAs been employed with your company?

Are there opportunities for advancement within your company for STNAs?

Why do you work for this company?

Can you explain your company’s philosophy and policies?

You can find the “perfect” job with proper planning and thorough preparation!

So, you have completed your training for STNA, passed the State test and received your license, now what? Do you have an idea of where you would like to utilize your training and skills? If not, the first step is to consider the type of employment and environment that fits your personality and goals. STNAs are afforded a wide range of environments in which to work: nursing homes, hospitals, patients’ homes, assisted living facilities and hospice organizations. Furthermore, STNAs can explore the option of working independently as contractors; basically working for themselves.

It is important to research the employers that have openings for STNAs. Put some effort into researching what kind of continuing educational benefits they offer. Do they offer their employees and staff tuition assistance to further one’s credentials in the health care field? Do they provide continuing educational classes on site? If you wish to advance in the medical field, it is most wise to know how and if the prospective employer will assist you in gaining advanced training and education. Most employers will want to have the most trained and educated health care members on staff. However, you must do the research to find the best one.

Part of that research should focus on finding a position that offers flexibility and benefits, such as:

401k contribution

Vacation Pay

Disability Insurance

Medical Insurance

Pension Plan

Flexible Work Hours

The above benefits, when collectively added to your wages, make for a substantial annual salary package. Your salary package, including benefits, is something to give thorough consideration before accepting or rejecting an offer of employment.  Quite frankly, when you add all the above benefits together, it is feasible to be presented with an annual salary package valued at approximately $40,000.00.

The crux of the whole shebang is this—a STNA career can be most rewarding, offer flexibility and many benefits. Even if you are intend to work as a STNA for only a short time, to use the position as a stepping stone to a more advanced position, such as LPN, RN, and even MD, the benefits are many. Be assured that most STNAs are seen as crucial members of the health care environment. Starting out as an STNA affords you opportunities that present advancement credentials, experience, education, and stable income.

As you are aware, it is mandatory that STNA candidates take the state exam to become registered State Tested Nursing Assistants.  There are several businesses out there claiming to offer “prep” courses for state exams. Be forewarned, though; do not waste your time and hard earned money taking other STNA “prep” courses that do not offer the same comprehensive, individualized education that Premier Choice Health Services gives to each and every student.

Being ranked the #1 STNA educational facility in Ohio, PCHS takes pride in the dedication and comprehensive one-on-one training they give to their students.  It is PCHS’ goal to assure each student candidate is properly trained and thoroughly knowledgeable prior to sitting for the state exam.  We do this by keeping our class sizes small, thus allowing for a more individualized education based upon each student’s needs.

PCHS has long been providing quality exam preparation and tutoring to those who wish to review and or study for the Ohio STNA exam.  PCHS’ courses strengthen your skills, your comprehension and confidence as medical care provider.  This is backed up by the fact that 99% of PCHS students pass the state exam.  This remarkable credential goes hand-in-hand with solid preparation and training—something you gain at PCHS.

By choosing to take the courses at Premier Choice Health Services, you are in essence giving yourself the greatest gift of all: quality education at an affordable cost.  You are also choosing to prepare yourself with the best.  PCHS walks you through each step along the way to gaining your license as a STNA.  You will leave PCHS prepared to confidently take the Ohio State STNA test at the earliest date afforded. The short and sweet: PCHS’ courses help you pass the State of Ohio STNA examination the first time around, thus allowing you to embark on a rewarding career sooner than students from other schools!

A State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) is a career of immense responsibility.  Thus, the reason for the State mandated testing and certification. STNAs perform many tasks in addition to basic nursing care, such as bringing liveliness, patience, wisdom and a general attitude of compassion to the lives of the frail, the elderly, or chronically challenged individuals in nursing homes, medical care facilities, and home health care.

STNAs are the key players in the lives of those assigned to their care.  One of the essential duties of a STNA is personal care, i.e. bathing, dressing, grooming and personal hygiene.  This is all dependent on the patient’s medical condition and health status. Some patients will be more amble than others and will not require as much assistance getting to and from the restroom or with bathing and grooming.  However, STNAs are expected to be physically able to move, transport, assist their patient-client from bed to chair, in wheelchair, walker, or other medically prescribed device or equipment.

In addition, STNAs may be expected to perform housekeeping duties, such as the cleaning and changing of bedding and bath linens.  General housekeeping duties include preparing meals and in some cases feeding patients who are not able to feed themselves.  Taking care of the patient-client’s nourishment must be followed according to the doctor’s advice.

Along the same line, providing attentive medical care is the core essence of STNAs.  The patient-client’s life is essentially in your hands.  STNAs deliver and dispense prescribed medications, take and monitor vital signs, and record same. It doesn’t stop there.  STNA’s must have the knowledge and understanding of various situations and conditions that can be taking place in a patient’s health based on the readings.  You have to be on your toes and be able to alert the appropriate physician or facility when and if the readings suggest the patient’s health is taking a turn for the worse.

Last, but certainly not least, the most essential duty of a STNA is to communicate well and openly with the patient-client, as well as provide companionship and emotional support.  Though the career as a STNA can be challenging it certainly is rewarding knowing you are improving the quality of lives for those who are dependent upon your care.

State Tested Nursing Assistants (STNAs) are the front-line professionals linking the patient and the rest of the medical team.  STNAs have more contact with patients than other members of the medical team and work under the supervision of nurses and/or doctors.  It clearly is a career that requires astute skills and knowledge in the following areas:  personal care, monitoring and recovery assistance.

For instance, bathing, feeding and dressing patients are daily tasks performed by STNAs to ensure proper personal care of a patient and meeting their fundamental human needs.  Patients’ health status and condition will vary.  In some cases, patients require only assistance in their personal hygiene and grooming, while others may not have the same degree of ambulatory ability.  In this case, STNAs will have to adjust to the needs of each individual patient.

In addition, STNAs are required to monitor a patient’s health.  They are also required to have the skills and knowledge to give or perform simple medical treatments, deliver and disperse prescribed medications to patients, measure fluid intake and output, record and chart vital signs, i.e. blood pressure, temperature, pulse and respiration. This is the most crucial responsibility of a STNA.  It requires the ability to give attention to accurate observations, recording and clear communication with the patient, the family and the medical team. Not only is the patient’s recovery at stake, the patient’s life is at stake.  There is no room for inaccurate or inconsistent recording and reporting.

Simply, STNAs are the “eyes and ears” for the patient’s family, nurses and doctors.  STNAs are an essential part of the healthcare team being the hands-on provider of personal care to the patient, attentive observations of the patient’s health, and detailed reports to the rest of the medical team.  In essence, STNAs are the backbone of a patient’s recovery and rehabilitation.  It is a challenging, yet rewarding, career.

It is a commonly known fact that for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) to be successful, the first-aid responder has to deliver adequate compressions to the chest.  Furthermore, the responder should have completed CPR training.  With CPR training techniques changing as fast as the advancement of medical care, each and every person, young and old, should take a CPR class every year or so to refresh one’s knowledge and skills in administering CPR.  Thinking that the course taken 10 years ago is enough is absolutely wrong.

According to The American Heart Association, “about 92% of sudden cardiac arrest victims die before reaching the hospital, but statistics prove that that if more people knew CPR, more lives could be saved.  Immediate CPR can double, even triple a victim’s chance of survival.”  It is interesting to note that the history of CPR goes back to the late 1700’s.  However, today, most Americans do not know how to perform it correctly and effectively.

More lives can be saved as more people are trained to learn the latest techniques.  For instance, the typical adult CPR is not sufficient for those victims suffering from cardiac arrest due to trauma.  As the standard hands compression CPR provides approximately 25% of healthy blood flow to the heart and brain, this is not sufficient for trauma victims. A new CPR technique uses two devices simultaneously to increase circulation.

The new technique makes it easier to perform CPR on adults.  Two devices are used to increase blood circulation.  One device is handheld that attaches a small suction cup to the chest of the victim.  After each compression, the suction cup stimulates blood flow allowing the chest to be filled up.  The second device is an impedance threshold device that attaches to the airway of the patient using a facial mask.

Retraining and retention of CPR skills are essential for everyone.  Studies have shown that memory of CPR techniques tend to deteriorate as early as three months after training, even among highly trained professionals, including doctors and nurses.  Therefore, register for a CPR class.  Premier Choice Health Services offers a comprehensive CPR/First-Aid class of the latest administering techniques every other Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. for the low cost of $55.00 per class.  The class is approved through the American Heart Associate and provides a two-year certification in adult, child, and infant CPR/First Aid.

The New York Times recently reported that, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ List of Fastest Growing Occupations, they predict an increase of 461,000 new Home Health Aide (HHA) jobs created in this country by the year 2018.  This is astonishing!  The career as an HHA is one of the top three largest growing occupations. An HHA’s annual salary averages between $20,000-$40,000.00 for providing assistance to the elderly and infirmed within the patient’s home or assisted living facility.  Other responsibilities may include meal preparation, light housekeeping, bathing the patient, monitoring and taking the patient’s vital signs, administering medications, and utilizing whatever medical equipment is necessary to sustain or improve the patient’s quality of health.

The job growth increase for Home Health Aides is due to the explosion of the elderly population.  With the excellent health care we receive in our country, we are living longer than in previous decades.  William Dombi, vice president at the National Association for Home Care and Hospice, claims the demand already exceeds the supply.  Simply, there is a great amount of elderly and infirmed patients and not enough HHAs to care for them. So, if you have a passion to help others, especially the elderly and disabled, this is the perfect time to jump in the fast growing health care field and obtain your licensure as an HHA.  Why wait to get started?

There are several programs available, such as that offered by Premier Choice Health Services (PCHS), which provide the necessary classes and training essential in obtaining licensure as an HHA.  PCHS is a well-structured institution, with friendly faculty and staff, which strive to ensure its students receive the best training that allows them to pursue a lucrative career as a licensed HHA or STNA.  In just a matter of a few short weeks, at a cost that is relatively easy on the budget, you could be on your way working as an HHA in one of the fastest growing job markets.  Not to mention, it also is a great avenue to take towards advancement in the field of Nursing.

Every single parent knows time is scarce and flexibility is important during the day to allow you to deal with your children’s needs, as well as earn a decent income.  It can be difficult to juggle both career and family.  This is also true for college students who seek employment that meshes well with their class schedule.   However, finding a job that is parent-friendly and offers flexible hours other than the typical 9-5 is not so farfetched. With a couple of weeks of training, you can be in working in the Health Care field that ranks high in workplace flexibility and is one of the fastest growing job markets.

Home Health Aides (HHA) is one of the many jobs included in the Health Care field.  Not to mention, they also rate at the top of career options for single parents and college students.  Mainly because the job offers a variety of shift options as well as decent pay, thus providing the flexibility to work around the family’s schedule or classes and provide you with steady income.  These are not the only benefits, however.  A job in the Health Care field offers many opportunities for advancement, as far as your heart desires.  Just keep in mind, the more training and education you receive, the more credentials and pay you receive.  Training and education is the key! 

Today, obtaining the necessary education to enter a strong career, such as HHA, is an option where you do not have to attend four-year colleges or universities or cough up a large sum of money or take out thousands of dollars in loans.  For instance, Premier Choices Health Services (PCHS) offers its students financial options and convenient payment plans that open the door to licensure as an HHA.  PCHS makes it fairly easy for you to get the necessary training that will launch you on your way to a rewarding Health Care career as a Home Health Aide¾a career that is growing by leaps and bounds¾in just a matter of a few short weeks. 

One Hundred and Thirty-Three students who completed the courses at Premier Choice Health Services (PCHS) rated their experience in obtaining their STNA/HHA certification, as well as express aspects of the experience they loved the most.  The top ten things former students loved the most were:

1. Professional and friendly instructors.

2. Family atmosphere among faculty and students.

3. Well structured classes covering essential subjects.

4. Hands-on clinical skill practices.

5. Emphasis on quality patient relations and care.

6. Two weeks to graduation, as compared to 6 weeks in other schools.

7. Reasonable and competitive tuition fees, as well as flexible payment plans.

8. Extensive preparation and a free review of the State test.

9. Resume and interview preparation.

10.  Job placement assistance.

Overwhelmingly, the consensus shows that compared to other schools, the 133 students feel PCHS’s faculty and personnel are the most friendly, knowledgeable and skillful, providing their students with a high quality instruction, on-hands training, and intensive review for the State test, necessary in obtaining a STNA certification.

One Hundred and Fifteen (or 86%) of the students gave their total PCHS experience an excellent, five-star rating.  Sixteen (or 12%) rated their experience with four out of five stars.  Two (or 2%) of the 133 students felt PCHS did not meet their needs.  However, many expressed that, as a result of the training they received at PCHS, they were able to find or be placed in a job quickly.  A necessary step in launching a viable and longstanding career in the medical/long-term care facility fields.  Some students were offered jobs before completing all the courses at PCHS.  What is found truly inspiring is that several former students are continuing to pursue their nursing studies, working towards obtaining their LPN and RN credentials.

As is easily seen, the reviews of students who have gone through the courses at PCHS, clearly demonstrate that Premier Choice Health Services (PCHS) undeniably strives to ensure their students a positive experience in obtaining their STNA or HHA certificates.

State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) jobs are on the rise as the elderly population increases.  It is a solid career to embark upon, a job that offers many rewards working in a long term care facility, assisted living facility, palliative or hospice care, or as a home health care.  If this is a career you are interested in, obtaining the necessary required training can be financed easier than you think.  In fact, you may be able to get if free! There are several sources of financing, grants and free assistance that may be available to you.

For instance, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) offers financial assistance to those who are looking for work or displaced workers who what to learn new skills and change careers.  There is the federally funded program, Workforce Investment Act (WIA).  WIA provides employment and training services, as does the WIA Youth program, which is designed for individuals between the ages of 14-21 who require educational and/or employment assistance.

If you do not qualify for a government grants or assistance, there are other options available to you.  If you are hired by a nursing facility, specifically a Medicare or Medicaid facility, prior to starting training, or are hired within 12 months of completing a training program, and you have passed the state mandated test, you may be eligible for complete reimbursement of the STNA program.  This includes reimbursement of testing and course materials.  Contact your employer’s Human Resource Department to confirm these benefits are available to you.

Finally, if the options mentioned above do not suit you, Premier Choice Health Services (PCHS) offers individuals a hassle-free, no credit check, financing.  All it takes is a valid checking account, a valid driver’s license and proof of employment income.  PCHS also offers a convenient payment plan.  With a $200.00 deposit at time of enrollment, and the final payment of $215 due the last Friday of the two and a half week program, you, too, can embark upon a successful career as a certified STNA today!

State Tested Nursing Assistants (STNA) who wish to maintain their eligibility to work in long term care facilities, assisted living facilities, palliative or hospice care facilities or within a home health care agency, must meet all the requirements defined by the Ohio Department of Health for certification.

In Ohio, there are four steps you must complete to maintain your STNA certification.  The steps are as follows:

1. Provide documentation that you completed at least seven and one-half consecutive hours, or eight hours in a 40-hour period, of nursing-related services during the previous 24 months.
2. Provide documentation confirming all necessary in-service or continuing education requirements have been completed in the previous 24 months.
3. Provide documentation of physical exams and tests, including the Mantoux (TB) skin test.
4. Submit a completed renewal application to the Ohio Department of Health, along with all the supporting documentation, as mentioned above, as well as the correct specified payment.

It is very important that you submit your completed application and documentation early enough so that it is received and processed before your STNA certification expiration date.  Always better to be safe, than sorry!

The Ohio Department of Health requires all individuals pursuing STNA certification to providing nursing and nursing related services for monetary compensation within 24 months after he or she last met the requirement for being listed on its eligibility registry.  If the above requirements are not met, the individual must, unfortunately, go through STNA training again, as well as be retested and pass the test, in order to be eligible to work as a STNA.

Maintaining your STNA certification is a wise investment, an investment which opens the door to a long-standing career offering job security, stability, as well as personal satisfaction in providing a needed service to a diverse population within a long term medical setting, assisted living facility, home health care or hospital.  For more information regarding maintaining your STNA certification eligibility, contact Premier Choice Health Services (PCHS) or the Ohio Department of Health, Nurse Aid Program, at NAR@odh.ohio.gov.

IT IS RELATIVELY EASY GETTING RECERTIFIED

So you have found yourself in a situation where your State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) certification has lapsed or is no longer valid.  Do not despair!  Rise up, dust yourself off, and read on to take the necessary steps in obtaining re-certification in the State of Ohio and being listed in the Ohio Department of Health’s registry of eligible nursing assistants.

The Ohio Department of Health requires all individuals, who are no longer listed in the registry due to suspension or lapse of certification, to retrain and retest.  The first step is to enroll in a State accredited STNA program, such as that which is offered at Premier Choice Health Services (PCHS).  PCHS offers courses covering basic nursing, safety, CPR, communication and mental health.

Once you have completed the retraining, the next step is to submit a completed STNA Application.  It is important to note that the Application requires proof that you are currently enrolled in a qualified training course.  If you have completed your retraining with the previous 24 months of submitting the Application, a copy of your program certification will need to be attached to the Application.

The last step in the process is taking and passing the test.  In Ohio, the tests are administered through D&S Diversified Technologies.  D&S has testing sites through the state.  When you are ready to take the test, you can check the D&S website for testing times and locations.  After you take and pass the test, the rest is a breeze!

It is important that once you pass the state test, you verify your inclusion on the Department of Health’s registry at:  http://www.odh.ohio.gov/odhprograms/io/nurseaide/nurseaide1.aspx.  If you are currently employed at a long-term care facility or hospital, your supervisor or Human Resources Department can easily verify your inclusion on the registry, as well.

It may seem that the State of Ohio has rigid requirements when it comes to the certification of STNA’s, but there is a good reason for this.  One thing to consider is the State’s guidelines are established to protect the integrity of Ohio STNA certifications.  Once you obtain your re-certification, you can be proud that you earned it each step of the way!  PCH is just a click or phone call away to assist you in doing just that!

The number one reason why you should take a CPR class is because it puts you in the position to save a life. Of course, it’s best if you’re never put in the situation where you’ll have to save a life, but as long as you are in that position, and throughout your life you likely will be, you might as well be a hero about it.

Also, CPR classes are a good way to meet other people who care enough about life to try to be potential heroes, which means they’re probably good people. You’ll make friends with them, and when you hang out together, you know that you’ll be in good hands in case your heart stops beating and your lungs start breathing. A friend who knows CPR is like a life support system that you can talk to.

Most classes are group classes in which the students gather around a dummy. The instructor teaches a step in the CPR process, then everyone practices that step on the dummy. Then the instructor teaches the next step in the CPR process, and then everyone practices that next step on the dummy, and so on. Similar to helping an old lady cross a street, CPR isn’t difficult and it doesn’t take a long time, but it’s still important to do.

You’ll have to recertify every two years if you want to keep your certification valid. Of course, it’s not necessary to have a valid certification to save a life, but continual research goes into perfecting the CPR method, so while you may save a life with your outdated CPR training, it’s always best to have the latest and most-accurate information possible. After all, when it comes to saving a life, every inch counts.

Before we get into the differences between how to conduct CPR on an adult, child, and infant, let’s first review what CPR is: it stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and it’s a manual way for you to keep a cardiac arrest’s victim’s heart and lungs working. In essence, it’s like life support that you can perform with your hands.

But adults, children, and infants have different body types, so while the overall CPR technique is essentially the same on all three, there are minor variations that we need to remember in order to ensure the best outcome. And since the outcome that we’re referring to here is the saving of a life, it’s good to remember this.

Response time

If you’re the only person on the scene, then it’s even more important to respond immediately to a child or infant who goes into cardiac arrest with CPR, even if it means waiting a few minutes to call an ambulance. Children and infants respond better to CPR than adults, especially if you start the CPR immediately.

Head position

On an adult, it’s important to tilt the victim’s head back to open up the airway fully. On a child and infant, tilting the head back too far will actually close off the airway. So only tilt a child or infant’s head back into a “sniffer’s position.” This means to tilt the head back to the point that it looks like the child or infantis sniffing.

Where to check for pulse

On infants, check their pulse on the brachial artery located inside the upper arm. On children and adults, check the pulse at the carotid artery located on the neck.

Chest compressions

When compressing the chest of an adult (to the rhythm of “Staying Alive” by the Bee Gees, about 100 compressions per minute) use the heel of both hands. On a child, use only the heel of one hand and on an infant, compress with only two fingers of one hand.

The instructions on this post will help you in an emergency, but please don’t consider them a replacement for actual CPR training. Please check our schedule for more information on First Aid and CPR classes,

Now that you’re an STNA, opportunities will be opening up in front of you. More specifically, you’ll have to open up the opportunities yourself by selling yourself to potential employers. The best way to start the selling process is bywriting a stellar resume, your main selling tool. List each job that’s relevant to the job you’re applying for, and list three or four accomplishments at that job.

It’s important to list accomplishments on your resume as opposed to duties. Make it seem like you’re not just a regular worker who goes through the motions, but somebody who goes to work to actually do something. For example, if you worked at a nursing home, instead of writing, “Cared for tenants in a prompt and orderly fashion,” write, “Achieved the least number of complaints than any other employee.” It helps if you actually achieved measurable accomplishments, but just be creative and you’ll see that a mere duty can easily be reworded into something that sounds much better.

Once you have your polished resume, it’s time to send it out. Most job postings on the internet or in the newspaper are a wild goose chase. Instead, try posting your resume on job boards. When you send your resume to a specific job posting, only one employer will see it, if that. But when you post your resume on a job board, many employers will see it.

In conjunction with posting your resume on a job board, try your luck with a staffing agency for nurses. Even if you’re unable to get full-time work through a staffing agency, it’s common to at least get part-time work, and if you do well, it usually turns into something more. After all, in a period of economic downturn, getting your foot in the door is getting in the door.

Nursing assistants don’t have to end up in long-term care

The common perception of State Tested Nursing Assistants (STNA) is that they predominantly give non-medical aid to people with chronic illness or disability. This is known as long-term care (LTC). While there is some validity to this association between STNAs and long-term care, since nursing homes are major employers of STNAs, this doesn’t mean that as an STNA you will forever be relegated to bed pans and sponge baths.

The mere fact that hospitals and other non-LTC areas employ nurse assistants on a regular basis should give you confidence that you don’t have to work in LTC if you don’t want to. Even psychology wards need nursing assistants more often than you would think. However, if you don’t take any specific action to work at a venue where you want to work, then yes, chances are you will end up in LTC because nobody else wants to.

But you could say that about any qualification for any field. An engineer could end up doing rudimentary number crunching on a project to build a bridge, or he can be the chief engineer on the project. The difference is in drive and determination, and not so much intelligence, especially since drive and determination often are harbingers of intelligence.

A good way to demonstrate your drive and determination is to volunteer. If you don’t want to end up changing colostomy bags for a living, then volunteer at the job you do want and make yourself useful.

Or, if you simply cannot afford to work for free, then take an LTC job but help out with other duties as well. Once your supervisor takes notice of your utility, you’re sure to get an opportunity, or at least the chance to learn more, which is usually all the opportunity you’ll need.

A common problem of nurses who recently received their State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) license is that employers require experience before they hire. What seems like a Catch 22 is actually not, because employers don’t require paid experience.

Unfortunately, in this economy, hospitals aren’t exactly trying to trap any nursing assistant who happens to walk by the front door, so you’ll have to prime the hospital’s HR pump by working for free. Volunteering is a great way to show your usefulness to a potential employer. If you volunteer for a hospital, but act as though you actually work for them, you’ll be surprised how often the hospital will ask you to start working full-time and for pay, often much sooner than one year. In the meantime, Starbucks is always looking for baristas. Think of it as an opportunity to work on your customer service skills.

Plus, it’s beneficial for you to volunteer before settling down in a full-time, committed job. What hospital do you want to work in? What part of the hospital? You may not have a clear vision of where you want to be, which is dangerous when you get a full-time job. It would be good to try out different environments. You may like working with children more than the elderly. You may enjoy the excitement that comes with dealing with trauma patients. Let’s say, through volunteering, that you enjoy working in a hospital’s emergency room more than anything else. You’ll be able to convey your passion for the position in your interview, which, when combined with your experience, will be able to land you a job at any hospital. 

Also, you’ll know something is your true calling when you will do it for free, so maybe if the thought of volunteering as a nursing assistant makes you feel gipped, this could be telling you something very important about yourself.

Rarely are recently-discharged patients from the hospital ready to be self-sufficient members of society. They need a phase of transition, and home health care is this transition just like a halfway house is a transition for ex-convicts.

What home health care is

Home health care, or just “home care,” is supportive and rehabilitative care performed in the home of the recently-discharged patient, provided by family and friends. Sometimes a health care professional is required for home care, but rarely is this a full-time duty. A nurse may be called in case of an emergency or to teach the patient’s family and friends a convalescent duty, and then she goes on her way.

Other services can be provided by a health care professional depending on the difficulty of the skill involved. A nurse may need to assess the respiratory status of a patient after a bout of pneumonia, but family can provide ostomy care, insulin injections, and feedings.

What home health care is not

Home care is not when a nurse or health care professional is needed to take care of a patient full-time and for an extended period of time. As a transition period to a normal life, home care doesn’t necessitate a nurse. If it did, then the patient is usually better off in the hospital.

Paying for home health care

As with any medical expense, public and private medical insurance will cover all or none of home care depending on the importance of the care. For instance, ventilator care or some other complex skill will most likely be covered by insurance, but custodial care is usually an out-of-pocket expense.

Most insurance plans, and especially Medicaid, require a medical doctor to order the service or care, and the patient must be homebound for the duration of the home care.

How people are in one area of their life is a good indication of how they are in another area of their life. If you’re honest with your children, then you’re probably honest with your boss. If you put your full effort into completing a project at work, then you’re going to put your full effort into playing a board game when you get home. And if you’re an attentive student in nursing school, they’re you’re probably going to be a nurse who employers are looking for.

So if you’re in nursing school now, notice your approach to school; it will be quite revealing of the kind of worker you’re going to be. For instance, if you turn your phone off before class begins, that says something different about you than if you just put your phone on vibrate in case someone texts you, which would give you something to fiddle with in case class gets boring.

Do you ask questions in class, always trying to think about the material in a new way? Or do you just sit in the back of the room and absorb? In the field, this could mean the difference between being a cog in a system and an innovator.

Do you even show up to class every day? Or are you ready and even willing to blow off class because it’s “no big deal,” anyway? If you do the latter, maybe this doesn’t mean that you’ll skip work, but maybe you won’t think it’s such a big deal if you’re ten minutes late. Other people, however, will think it’s a big deal.

In short, the qualities that employers are looking for are the same qualities that you can develop and bolster while getting your nursing certification. You’ll leave no doubt in your future employer’s mind that you’re attentive, inquisitive, punctual, and a hard worker because these are qualities that you’ve radiated while in school.

Perhaps more importantly, these are qualities that your instructors notice. They know who asks the questions, and they know who plays their phones like a piano, and when making a recommendation, they have no problem telling employers about either.

When embarking on your nursing career, it’s easy to get lost in the swamp of certifications and acronyms, but I’m here to relieve the stress of starting your career and tell you that the best first step you can take is to get your State Trained Nurse Assistant certification.

STNA training is important because it’s standardized yet constantly evolving. The courses teach you the necessary information to advance your career as a nurse assistant while keeping you up-to-date on the latest innovations in the medical field, a profession in which the horizon is perpetually receding.

To further deal with the constant innovation in your field, STNA training requires you to take 12 hours of classes every year after receiving your initial certification in order to keep that certification. After all, you wouldn’t expect to be healthy after going to the gym once, no matter how intense the workout.

The initial STNA certification and the constant upkeep required to keep an SNTA certification are more than just means to acquire specialized knowledge to further your career. They are tools of communication; specifically, they are symbols.

As a landmark like the Golden Gate Bridge communicates many ideas in a precise and digestible manner, so does an STNA certification communicate many ideas about you. Not only is this good for feeling a healthy sense of self-satisfaction when looking in the mirror, but those four letters communicate to employers more than any words could say.

In addition, many schools provide STNA certification graduates with comprehensive job-placement programs. Knowledge is power, yes, but only if you can do something with it. As an aspiring nurse, you understand this, otherwise you’d be going to art school.

Before you enter the nursing field, it’s important to honestly assess your personality, as it is critical not only to your success, but to your happiness as a nursing assistant. Nursing is a very demanding career, as you’re working with sick people all day long- along with dealing with the physical aspects of patient care. We’ve compiled a list of the most important personality traits every nursing professional should have:

1. Truly caring for others: Enough said-it should be the number one reason you’re a nurse!
2. Empathy: you’ll need to be understanding of your patient’s condition and personality, dealing with them in a warm and sympathetic manner, without losing your cool.
3. Emotional stability: It’s a nerve wracking business, nursing, at times. It’s important to be able to handle situations and patients calmly and under control.
4. Attention to detail: Imperative! Take notes, writing everything you do on the patient’s chart, remembering medication and timing, etc.
5. Physical endurance: You’ll be on your feet most of the day. In addition, you’ll be physically moving patients around, helping them in and out of bed, or helping them to walk.
6. Adaptability: This is no assembly line job! Every day is different, and situations arise quickly. Be able to change direction when needed, and expect change on a daily basis.
7. Exercise good judgment: With professional training and certification, good judgment is part of being an effective nurse.
8. Think on your feet: Your actions and decisions can mean the difference between life and death for your patients. You should be able to make decisions quickly and act on them.
9. Excellent work ethic: If you’ve read this far, you can see that nursing is challenging on many levels. You’ll have to expect to work hard to succeed.
10. Communicate! It’s critical to the patients and to your team to communicate effectively, whether it’s the patient’s chart, or in a critical situation. Calm, clear communication is essential.

It’s true that nursing can be a very challenging career. However, it’s also one of the most rewarding. Helping patients heal, giving them great care, and making their lives better are all terrific ways you’ll benefit as a nurse. And the more of these 10 personality traits you possess, the happier you’ll be as a nursing professional.

When you’re considering becoming a nurse, you should think about taking STNA (State Trained Nursing Assistant) classes as a smart choice. Becoming certified as a nursing assistant, which takes little time, can help you gain valuable experience and strengthen your nursing education. It’s also a great idea to try out the career of nursing before jumping into nursing school.

If you’re passionate about serving patients and interested in a health care career as a nurse, then getting your STNA certification is a great way to go. With an average of only 75 hours of training required, it can be a crucial part of planning your educational path on your way to becoming a nurse. With both classroom and practical courses, this training certification will help you be more prepared for a nursing career.

After training, you’ll need to prepare for a written and a practical exam. Study hard- you don’t want to waste all those hours of education! Once you pass the certification, you’re good to go- prepared to work as an STNA in your state.

STNA’s perform many of the same tasks as RN’s, and gain valuable experience working with both patients and nursing teams. They perform patient care, administering medications, taking temperatures, bathing and grooming. They communicate directly with their nursing supervisors on patient condition. They monitor patients for signs of health. And they gain valuable nursing experience.

So if you’re seriously considering entering the nursing field, think about STNA certification. Becoming an STNA can be a great way to experience nursing, become more qualified for nursing school, and gain entry into a rewarding nursing career.

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 STNA.

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.

If you’re interested in getting into the exciting and growing field of healthcare, with little time and investment, you can become a certified nursing assistant. With a high school education, and a six to twelve week course certification, you’re on your way to a career where you can help, comfort, and care for others. The demand is rising for certified nursing assistants, because as the population ages, the demand will continue to grow.

Along with a minimum of a high school or GED degree, there are a number of attributes you must possess to be successful as an STNA. You must possess a caring personality, enjoy helping people, and be physically able to perform manual skills to assist your patients.In addition, when you are accepted into the STNA program, there will be a medical screening.

Here’s what to expect during your STNA medical screening.

You’ll be required to produce a physical exam record which is signed by a physician. If you cannot produce a physical exam record, you will be required to take a physical exam.

You’ll also be required to take a two-stepMantoux test for Tuberculosis (TB). Tuberculosis can be highly contagious in multi-patient facilities so this test is important for your health and the health of your patients.

And finally, many facilities and agencies require that applicants pass a drug screening. Some may require this before entry into the training program, and others may perform drug testing on new employees and/or existing employees.

There are great opportunities in becoming a State Tested Nursing Assistant for Medicare. Although you will have to obtain certification and find Medicare patients, you’ll benefit with expanded career opportunities. Some of the most common questions for this exciting career are listed below.

Q. How does an agency obtain a Provider Number?

A. Once you’ve obtained certification from Medicare, JCAHO, or CHAP , contact the provider enrollment department in your region to assist you. It is easy to contact these agencies with the following websites:

Medicare: www.cms.hhs.gov/home/medicare.asp

JCAHO: www.jointcommission.org

CHAP: www.chapinc.org/chap-consumer.htm

Q.What do I need to do to get my Non-Agency Personal Care Aide number?

A.You’ll need to submit the following documents to the Provider Enrollment Department in your region. A copy of your Social Security Card, a copy of a current government issued ID with your name, photo, current address, and expiration date on it, a copy of your STNA or HHA certification or other equivalent training completed in the last 24 months, a copy of your current First Aide Certification, and a letter of referral from an Ohio Home Health Care, Transitions MRDD, or Transitions Carve-Out Waiver Consumer who wants you to be their provider.

Q. How do I arrange for an RN supervisor and why do I need one?

A. Because as an STNA you’re required to be under supervision of an RN, you must arrange for an RN to work with you as a Medicare provider. You can choose any RN supervisor that you know, who agrees to act as your supervisor. It’s important to note that your RN supervisor does not need to be a Medicare provider that they do need to have an active nursing license.

Q. Does the RN supervisor get paid?

A. The RN may or may not be paid by the LPN that he/she is supervising. This is worked out between the RN and the LPN.

Q. How do I get paid for my services?

A.In order to get paid for your services as a Medicare provider STNA, you must obtain the proper forms on the CareStar Ohio Home Care Information website. Don’t forget to get a 1099 form from the state of Ohio for tax purposes-as you are considered to be self-employed and the 1099s replaces your normal W-2 form. Submit all claims to: Ohio Department of Human Services, P.O. Box 2644, Columbus, Ohio 43266. DO NOT FOLD THE CLAIM FORM.

If you’d like more information on becoming a Medicare provider STN a please contact us we are here to help

Congratulations! You’ve made the decision to pursue a career as an Ohio State Trained Nurse Assistant. During your training, and after studying the curriculum, you’ll be asked to take a physical skills test. This test will prepare you for the manual aspects of your new career as an STNA. It’s important to know what you’ll be expected to perform in your new role. Here are some commonly asked questions about the 25 skills needed to pass the test.

Q: How many skills will I be tested on?

A: There are 25 skills involved in the STNA skills test.

Q: How do I prepare for the test?

A: Your curriculum and your teachers will ensure that you have the necessary information and experience to pass the test.

Q: What’s involved in taking the skills test?

A: You will be asked to identify the 25 skills necessary to become an STNA, and know the steps to accomplish each skill.

Q: What kind of skills will I be asked to demonstrate?

A: The skills you’ll be tested on range from personal care such as handwashing, haircare, and dental care, through physical therapy, assisting with ambulation, and medical care such as taking vital signs and weighing the patient.

The complete list of skills is listed below.

Skill 01 – Hand Washing

Skill 02 – Abdominal Thrust on Conscious Resident

Skill 03 – Ambulation using a Gait Belt

Skill 04 – Ambulation with Walker

Skill 05 – Applying Antiembolic Stocking to One Leg

Skill 06 – Bedpan/Fracture Pan and Output

Skill 07 – Denture Care

Skill 08 – Dressing Resident

Skill 09 – Emptying a Urinary Drainage Bag

Skill 10 – Feeding the Dependent Resident

Skill 11 – Hair Care

Skill 12 – Making an Occupied Bed

Skill 13 – Making an Unoccupied Bed

Skill 14 – Mouth Care

Skill 15 – Nail Care One Hand

Skill 16 – Partial Bed Bath – Face, Arm, Hand and Underarm

Skill 17 – Perinea Care for a Female

Skill 18 – Position Resident on Left Side

Skill 19 – Range of Motion Hip & Knee

Skill 20 – Range of Motion One Shoulder

Skill 21 – Transfer from Bed to Wheelchair using a Gait Belt

Skill 22 – Transfer from Wheelchair to Bed using a Gait Belt

Skill 23 – Vest Restraint in Bed

Skill 24 – Vital Signs – Temperature, Pulse and Respiration

Skill 25 – Weighing an Ambulatory Resident

If you’re interested in getting into the exciting and growing field of healthcare, with little time and investment, you can become a certified nursing assistant. With a high school education, and a six to twelve week course certification, you’re on your way to a career where you can help, comfort, and care for others. The demand is rising for certified nursing assistants, because as the population ages, the demand will continue to grow.

There are a number of educational programs available to those seeking to become state tested nursing assistant. Community colleges, vocational centers, and formal educational programs offer certified nursing training. Although the time and investments to become a state tested nursing assistant will vary by state, with a high school diploma or its equivalent, you can begin your training.

Certified nursing assistants enjoy steady employment and a positive outlook for career growth. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in the next 10 years, state tested nursing assistants opportunities will increase faster than the national average for all other occupations. In fact, as a state trained nursing assistant, your career outlook is excellent.

The average salary for state tested nursing assistants in 2011 is around $27,000 per year. Salaries vary considerably, however, by geographical area. New York and California have some of the highest paying STNA jobs available.

So if you are a caring person, if you enjoy helping people, and if you’re excited about entering the medical profession as a nurse’s aide, you can join one of the fastest growing healthcare careers available today.

Certified nursing assistants have very challenging careers. They’re the primary caregivers for millions of patients, from recovery, to terminal illness to aging. Becoming a certified nursing assistant can be a very rewarding choice in your career. You could be employed by nursing homes, outpatient clinics and hospitals, or even in the home to take care of the everyday needs of your patients. There’s a large amount of personal care involved, as well as medical duties like monitoring vital signs and physical conditions. There’s also a lot of hands-on interaction. You have to be fairly fit, as certified nursing assistants are often lifting and carrying patients, helping them with walking and helping travel to and from doctor appointments.

Education:education is required to be a certified nursing assistant. A High school diploma or GED is usually sufficient, in most states, to becoming a CNA. CNA’s trained in state approved training programs and the times to finish varies by state. 50 to 75 hours of credits that take about 6 to 12 weeks to complete is the norm in most states. After credits are completed, there’ll be a written and practical test covering the materials. You are then registered with the state as a certified nursing assistant and you can begin your career helping others. You can find out more with your state nurse’s aide Registry.

Becoming a certified nursing assistant is a great way to get into the healthcare industry. With little experience and investment you can become a certified nursing assistant on the way to becoming a registered nurse or other medical professional. Initial pay scales range between $25,000and $30,000 per year, depending upon the city. And one of the best things about becoming a CNA is that your schedule can be very flexible. Patients need care around-the-clock – so you may work night, evening, and weekend shifts and even make extra money with an overtime schedule.

If you want to get into the exciting field of healthcare, if you’re compassionate, have patience and humility, becoming a certified nursing assistant may be the perfect career for you.

When a loved one experiences a terminal illness it can be very stressful for the family members . Hospice care offers comfort and support to the entire family by caring for the patient, and providing total support through medical, nursing, social, and even spiritual guidance.

Hospice care provides quality of life for terminally ill patients. Hospice care focuses on care over cure or treatment for the underlying disease. Services can be in home or at a hospice facility, but either way, with hospice care service you will experience extraordinary care from the medical and nursing staff, as well as social workers and spiritual personnel.

When you’re exploring hospice care for your loved one, you may be concerned about cost. Care may be financed in many ways. Medicare, Medicaid, and even the Department of Veterans Affairs and some private insurance can fund your hospice care expenses. Every hospice program has its own policy – so it’s very important to ask about payment options, costs and coverage as you explore hospice programs for your loved ones. You may also set up long-term care through your health care provider before hospice care is needed. This can alleviate stress for all involved.

Hospice programs offer a range of care options depending upon the needs of the patient. It’s important to evaluate a hospice program by asking questions about the programs, services and the staff. You may also want to contact your local or state office on aging, or your friends and neighbors -a personal recommendation is always best when considering hospice care.

Hospice care hospice care can provide comfort for the terminally ill patient as well as the family members.

Let’s face it, aging gracefully can be challenging both for seniors and their families. Loss of mobility, personal care, and inability to run errands and do housework can make a senior feel dependent and depressed. Aging with independence and dignity is important. One way to help seniors to be at their best, mentally, physically, and socially, is to allow them to stay at home. Home care and support, whether it’s through a family member or professional health care aide, can provide a positive quality of life as we age.

Family support is critical to the well-being of an aging relative. And that support can be achieved in many ways. From sharing meals and running errands, to simply spending time with your senior, family helps maintain mental and emotional health. There are some aspects of taking care of aging seniors that may fall out of the abilities of the family, either through time commitments, location, or specific medical conditions that require professionals. It’s important to take these factors into consideration so that the time you do spend with your aging relative is beneficial for everyone involved.

Professional care is a lifeline for families caring for aging loved ones. There are several options for planning professionals to make life easier.   Housework and lawn care can be handled through agencies. Instead of having to run errands like groceries, medications, and drycleaning, several companies offer delivery services. And meals can also be delivered, or shared at a local senior center.

But when it comes to personal and medical care, most often the best option is to hire trained professionals. STNA’s (State Tested Nurse Aids) and Home Health Care Aides who work under the direction of nurses or nurse facilities are a great, cost effective option. You can be assured of quality, trained support, and your loved one will have the right care for their personal and medical needs. A compassionate, licensed healthcare provider can help you find the right caregiver for your circumstance.

Helping your loved one stay independent and age successfully is one of the most important things you can give them in life. Finding the right combination of services, planning for the short and long term, and hiring a medical professional when necessary can extend their lives at home, keep them independent longer, and create better relationships for everyone.

Home care and home health care are very viable and attractive options for many senior citizens. Living at home for as long as possible, with support from home care and home health care professionals, can preserve independence and dignity. And with so many options to assist an aging senior, it makes sense for a number of reasons to stay at home. Senior services, nurse’s aides, and grocery, prescriptions, and dry cleaning delivery services are all helpful in providing support and independence.

However attractive living at home is for your aging senior, there are also many good reasons to consider transitioning into an assisted living facility. Loneliness and lack of social interaction can be depressing for a senior who lives at home. Security and a more comfortable environment can be achieved through the right assisted living facility. And medical needs may be escalating, and the at home STNA needs additional support on a daily basis.

And, as the move to assisted living is becoming increasingly more common, home health care agencies play an important role in transitioning from living at home to one of the many types of assisted living. These agencies can provide STNA’s , or trained nursing assistants, as well as HHA’s, or home health aides, who will provide skilled care either at home, or as part of a home care combines with assisted living.

Whether your options include at home care, a transition to assisted living, or a combination of the two, home health care professionals can make the difference between a stressful situation and a comfortable one. At home, or in independent living facilities, retirement communities, assisted living facilities, or nursing homes- trained, certified nursing assistants can be of service.

And finally, it’s important to perform a needs assessment for your long term planning. Issues such as finances, health, well-being, and personality will play a role in deciding when and if the transition from home to an assisted living facility is necessary. Work with your home health care professional to help determine your course of action.

Most people as they get older prefer to remain independent and stay in their own homes. And staying at home when possible is proven to be beneficial to both the elderly and their families. The comfort of home is reassuring, familiar, and helps people to cope with the challenges of aging better than being in the hospital or extended care facilities. Luckily, there are many options when it comes to planning a home health care strategy for yourself or a loved one.

There are many types of home care assistance available. From simple personal care assistance, to meal preparation and mobility options, many resources are available to you for planning your home health care situation, depending on your needs.

Personal care: If you’re having trouble bathing, dressing, or washing your hair, you could ask a friend or relative to help. A Certified Health Aide can also be a valuable resource.

Meal preparation and sharing: If you have trouble preparing healthy meals, or are just tired of eating alone, check with your neighbors and friends. Perhaps you could arrange to share dinner once a week, or enjoy a night out together. Your church, synagogue, or mosque may have senior meal programs where you can enjoy the company of others. And there are hot meal programs that deliver directly to your home.

Homemaking chores: There are many grocery stores and drycleaners who can deliver. Look for lawn services and cleaning services to lessen your physical load. And a Certified Health Aide can perform many light housekeeping tasks.

Medical: You may need medical home care from a nurse or STNA. A State Tested Nurse Aide can perform many of the functions of a registered nurse, and works under the direction of a nurse or nursing facility. If you or your loved one needs medical care and wishes to stay at home, a STNA could be the ideal option for you. You can expect reasonable costs and flexibility when you use the services of an STNA.

Resources:You can get more information on many of these services from your local Area Agency on Aging, local and State offices on aging or social services,or nearby senior center.Or check out the following websites for more information:

-www.medicare.gov.  Clicking on “Long-Term Care Planning” in the “Resource Locator” takes you to the “Long-Term Care Planning Tool.”

-www.govbenefits.gov. If you can’t get to a computer, call 1-800-FED-INFO (1-800-333-4636/toll-free) for the same kind of help.

-www.benefitscheckup.org from the National Council on Aging, to find out about any benefits you’re entitled to.

If you’re considering a rewarding career in health care without spending a lot of time and money on qualifications, then becoming a Certified Home Health Aide may be the perfect career for you. The program consists of just 60 hours of training before you are certified. After certification, you have many options to practice home health care. The following information will help you find out if becoming a Certified Home Health Aide is right for you.

So what exactly does a Certified Home Health Aide do? Specifically, it’s just as it sounds- you’ll work at a certified hospice or for a home health agency, under the supervision of a nurse or member of the medical staff. Aides work directly with patients who need care, most often in the patients’ homes. Their duties cover a wide range of health care from medical reminders, changing dressings, and taking blood pressure. Aides also perform some light housekeeping, errands, and help in transporting patients.

What type of person should consider this career? As a Certified Home Health Aide, you’ll need to possess many qualities to be successful and to help your patients in so many ways. You’ll need to provide physical assistance and transportation. You’ll administer medical care. You’ll provide companionship and support during this time- so having a caring and friendly personality is very important. You must be responsible and compassionate. And you must also be able to perform physical tasks such as moving the patient in and out of bed, transporting them from wheel chair to vehicle, and bathing and dressing assistance.

It’s also important in today’s economy to consider the long term growth of the career you are considering. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has published that the growth for home health aides is expected to grow 50 percent between 2008 and 2018. As the population ages, seniors will need more health care both in their homes, and in long term health care facilities. And that’s good news for anyone considering starting their career in the robust field of home health care.

You can be certified easily and quickly to begin your career as a Certified Home Health Aide. Training and classroom work typically range between 60 and 75 hours. You don’t need a college degree, but a high school degree or GED is recommended. You can get training through classes and also through working directly with nursing staff. Your training will equip you to work in a variety of settings, predominately in client homes. You can also work in long term care facilities or in assisted living homes.

Becoming a Certified Home Health Aide can be your next career.   The health care industry is booming and this career is growing rapidly. If you enjoy helping others, if you are responsible and dependable, and if you want to make a difference in people’s lives, home health care can be the perfect next step for you.

When you’re considering home health care, whether for yourself or for a loved one, there are many factors involved. There are decisions to make, and each decision can seem very difficult as it directly affects the health and happiness of everyone in the family. And because home health care is advantageous in many ways, it’s important to research your options thoroughly.

There are many advantages to having home health care.Living at home, in a familiar and comfortable environment, helps patients better cope with their condition. It is a great option for chronically ill, aging, and disabled patients. Living in a familiar and comfortable environment helps maintain quality of life.

Also, as the population ages, many of us will be considering home health care. As many seniors enjoy feeling independent and not a burden on their loved ones as they age, using home health care allows them to maximize their independence for as long as possible. And that helps them and their loved ones to focus on more social and caring relationships.

Another advantage of home health care is that it is beneficial to short term situations as well. If the patient is in recovery, from an accident or acute illness, home health care allows them to recover faster. It’s also more likely that friends and family will be more frequent visitors at home – and they play a critical role in the recovery or long term quality of life for patients.

In addition, home care also improves the quality of provided services. And it can be a low cost option to extended hospital stays. Trained Home Health Aides, provided through a reputable health care company, are affordable and reliable.

There are many types of home care providers available to help with your situation.

Skilled nursing care, provided by RN’s (registered Nurses) and LPN’s, (licensed practitioner nurses) can provide medical and home infusion care. RN’s also can manage home health aides, who can assist in some medical care, as well as help patients with the essential activities of daily living.

STNA’s (State Tested Nursing Assistants) are trained and tested nursing assistants. They are trained medical professionals and are valuable home health caregivers. STNA’s can work directly with nurses and medical staff. They can perform some medical duties, and are trained in emergency procedures.

CertifiedHome Health Aides can perform a wide range of duties. They are also trained paraprofessionals, and they can help with medication, changing dressings, and some other forms of medical care.Home health aides will also assist with a wide variety of medical procedures, as well as helping with errands, bathing and dressing, and transportation.

It’s important to research your options for home health care. Choosing the right person or team to provide day in, day out care is a big decision. Candidates should be screened, certified, and carefully chosen to meet your needs. As well, your home health care providers should be caring, responsible and compassionate. Remember, home health care can benefit everyone in your situation.

As our bodies age, changes can be seen and felt. Aging affects everything from the integumentary system to the urinary system. A part of your STNA training in Ohio is to recognize the various signs of aging so that you are better able to meet the needs of your patients.

Certain changes to the body are normal. How fast we age and certain aspects of aging differ from one individual to the next depending up diet, health, stress, heredity, exercise and environment. Some changes occur gradually over time, while others can occur quickly as a result of illness or disease. Ohio STNA training helps you understand the different systems and the effects aging can have upon these systems.

One such system affected by aging is the integumentary system, or skin: skin loses elasticity and strength, brown spots may appear on wrists and or hands, fewer blood vessels and nerve endings, loss of fatty tissue, thin and saggy skin, development of fine lines, folds, wrinkles, dry and itchy skin, more sensitive to cold and less sensitive to pain, decreased sweat gland and oil secretions, thinning, drying and or graying hair and development of facial hair in some women.

STNA training in Ohio includes instruction of the various systems in and of the body including the musculoskeletal. Physical changes from aging to this system include muscle atrophy, decreased mobility and strength, bones become more brittle and more susceptible to breaks, stiff and painful joints and a gradual loss of height.

Signs of aging within the nervous system include confusion, decreased sense of smell and taste, forgetfulness, decreased vision and hearing, shorter memory, reduced blood flow to the brain and progressive loss of brain cells, and reduced sense of touch and sensitivity to pain.

Decreased appetite, indigestion, difficulty in swallowing, decreased peristalsis causing flatulence and constipation, loss of teeth, and decreased saliva production are a few of the changes of the digestive system.

Although the urinary and respiratory systems are also affected by things such as lung tissue becoming less elastic, difficulty breathing, urinary incontinence and a decrease in kidney function, focus is generally on the cardiovascular system with changes such as narrowing arteries that become less elastic causing less blood flow, and a weakened heart which pumps with less force yet has to work harder to pump blood through the narrowed vessels.

STNA training in Ohio prepares individuals for the demands of older patient care including the young-old (persons between 60 and 75 years of age), the middle-old (persons between 75 and 84 years), and the old-old (persons older than 85 years).

Your duties as a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) in Ohio encompass a wide range of responsibilities, depending on where you work. These tasks vary with the job and facility, and also vary somewhat from state to state. There are many laws of responsibility and liability that cover the exact duties of a STNA, and you will learn about many of them during your STNA training in Ohio.

As you go through your formal training and participate in clinicals, you will learn more about which of Ohio’s laws apply to your role as a state tested nursing assistant. Your primary obligation will be, of course, to your client or the patient. You will often be responsible for the daily management and routine care of your patient. This is especially true for the care of elderly residents in nursing home and extended care facilities.

Your second obligation will probably be to carry out the mission, goals, and objectives of your employer. Many facilities offer intense training and an orientation program to carefully go over the expectation of their workers.

Your third obligation will be to carry out the duties of a state tested nursing assistant as you were trained and educated to perform. This becomes your major obligation and you will find it very rewarding and satisfying.

During your STNA training in Ohio, you will learn how to ensure that your patients’ are always protected – including the right of privacy, the right to be informed of their health care program and treatment, the right to accept or reject treatment, and the right to be included in their health care plan information.

Because nurses cannot spend a lot of time in direct contact with the patient, you will be the nurses’ “eyes and the ears.” You will keep a close watch over your patients, and will be familiar with emergency responses in case of need. In most situations, you will monitor your client or patient’s vital signs, such as temperature, respiration, pulse, blood pressure, and level of pain.  You will be the one who notifies a nurse or doctor if anything changes in the patient’s condition. During your STNA training in Ohio, you will also learn the feeding process in order to ensure that patients are eating properly and taking any vitamins or nutritional supplements. You may also make beds, and perform hair care, personal hygiene, and bed-bath responsibilities.

There are many duties of a certified state-tested nursing assistant and the responsibility is enormous and challenging. The reward of your training will also be a exciting and very satisfying career.  Get started with your STNA training in Ohio today.