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3 Effective Time

Management Tips for CNAs

By Covenant CNA School

On October 17, 2018

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) have a lot of tasks to keep up with. The duties of a CNA are varied, and because each patient’s needs and abilities are unique, it can be a challenge to stay on track throughout your shift. Whether you are working in a hostipal or working the night shift at a nursing home, these 3 effective time management tips for CNAs should help.

Schedule Your Day

First thing’s first; you have to have a plan. Every shift will be a little different, but you need to familiarize yourself with your patients’ situations as soon as you clock in. Ask the CNA handing off your patients or look at their charts to see how everyone is doing. Prioritize your patients according to their needs. If you have just 30 minutes before breakfast, it may be better to get the half of your patients who are able to dress themselves up so they can start their day rather than spending your time with one patient. You know your patients best, and every situation will be different. The important thing is to plan it out before you start so you can maximize your time usage.

Write Things Down

A lot of new CNAs are easily frazzled. They see that Patient A has dirty fingernails on their way to take Patient B his medicine. It’s easy to let the little things you notice interrupt your schedule for the day, but don’t let them. Instead, carry a small notebook with you and add any little tasks you think of to your list of things to do. Then cross them off at a time that makes sense - like when you are helping Patient A to the bathroom.

Double Check Your Supplies

How often have you walked into a patient’s room to help him or her with a task only to realize you are missing something you need. New CNAs may enter and exit a room 3-5 times before finally having everything in place. If you need a list to help you remember what you need, make one. Then, gather everything together before you enter the patient’s room. Some CNAs even place all of their supplies for a round before they start the round to make sure they have them on hand when they need to.
BONUS: Moving fast is important, but doing things correctly is even more important. Always maintain good posture when working, and never put yourself in danger to complete a task. Ask for help when you need it. Do things correctly and speed will come.

CNAs are a crucial part of the healthcare system, and they make a positive impact on patients daily. Think it’s the right career for you?