Job Description: Hospice CNA

Reports To: Field Nurse / Nursing Case Manager / Director of Nursing
Supervises: None

Job Summary

The CNA  provides essential non-skilled and supportive care to patients in their homes, promoting comfort, safety, and independence. This role operates under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and is crucial to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in compliance with CMS Conditions of Participation, Joint Commission home care standards, and IDPH regulations.

The CNA  assists patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), monitors their condition, reports changes to supervising nurses, and ensures that patients maintain dignity, safety, and functional independence. This position requires compassion, attention to detail, effective communication skills, and adherence to infection control and safety protocols.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Patient Care and Assistance

• Assists patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, feeding, and mobility.
• Provides basic personal care services and support for patients’ daily routines.
• Monitors patients for changes in condition, behavior, or symptoms, and reports concerns promptly to supervise RN or LPN.
• Assists with ambulation, transfers, and positioning of patients to prevent falls or skin breakdown.
• Provides companionship and emotional support to patients and families, promoting psychosocial well-being.

Medication and Treatment Support

• Assists with medication reminders and administration of over-the-counter medications as delegated by RN or LPN, in accordance with Illinois scope of practice regulations.
• Supports the nursing team in implementing treatment plans, including dressing changes, catheter care, and other non-skilled interventions.
• Maintains accurate records of care provided and patient responses.

Patient Education and Family Support

• Reinforces teaching provided by nursing staff regarding disease management, home safety, and infection prevention.
• Supports family caregivers in performing patient care tasks safely and effectively.
• Encourages patient adherence to care plans, exercise programs, and healthy lifestyle practices as directed by supervising clinicians.

Documentation and Compliance

• Complete accurate and timely documentation of care, observations, and patient responses in accordance with agency policy and regulatory standards.
• Maintains confidentiality of patient information in compliance with HIPAA regulations.
• Participates in internal audits and quality-assurance activities as required.
• Reports incidents, falls, near misses, or patient complaints to the supervising nurse immediately.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Communicates effectively with RN, LPN, Nursing Case Manager, and therapy staff regarding patient status, progress, or concerns.
• Coordinates with the clinical team to ensure care continuity and timely follow-up on patient needs.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings or case conferences as requested.

Quality Improvement and Safety

• Follows infection control, safety, and OSHA protocols at all times.
• Supports agency initiatives to improve patient outcomes, reduce incidents, and enhance patient satisfaction.
• Reports hazards, unsafe conditions, or potential risks in the home environment to supervising staff.
• Promotes a culture of safety, respect, and dignity for all patients.

Operational Responsibilities

• Follows agency scheduling protocols and visit assignments, maintaining punctuality and adherence to timeframes.
• Ensures proper use, care, and maintenance of agency-provided equipment and supplies.
• Participates in training, continuing education, and competency assessments as required by the agency and regulatory authorities.

Qualifications & Education Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or GED required; completion of state-approved CNA  training program.
• Certification: Current Illinois CNA certification required.
• Experience: Preferably 6–12 months of experience in home care, long-term care, or related patient care setting.
• Knowledge: Basic understanding of patient care techniques, infection control, safety protocols, and HIPAA regulations.
• Skills: Strong interpersonal, communication, and observational skills; compassion and patience in providing care.
• Technology: Ability to use electronic documentation tools and basic office software if required.
• Other Requirements: Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and ability to travel to patient homes.
• Reliable Transportation and Valid Drivers Insurance 

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and assisting patients (up to 50 pounds with proper technique).
• Ability to assist patients with mobility, transfers, and personal care safely.
• Visual and auditory acuity for patient monitoring, communication, and documentation.
• Manual dexterity for hygiene, feeding, and basic medical tasks.

Working Conditions

• Home-based patient care, traveling to multiple residences daily.
• Exposure to variable home conditions, including pets, allergens, and environmental hazards.
• Standard home health shifts; flexibility required for urgent or weekend visits.
• Direct interaction with patients, caregivers, family members, and interdisciplinary team members.

Performance Expectations

• Provides patient care in a safe, effective, and compassionate manner.
• Complete all documentation accurately and within agency timelines.
• Demonstrates adherence to CMS, Joint Commission, and IDPH home health standards.
• Communicates patient status, concerns, and progress to supervising staff promptly.
• Participates in quality improvement and safety initiatives to enhance patient outcomes.
• Maintains professional conduct and promotes a positive patient experience at all times.