Hospice Certified Nursing Assistant at Dunes Hospice

Description

Job Summary:
The Certified Hospice Aide is a paraprofessional member of the interdisciplinary team who works under the supervision of a Registered Nurse/Case Manager. The aide provides personal care services to hospice patients to meet their daily needs, promote comfort, and support quality of life. Responsibilities include observing and reporting patient conditions, documenting care provided, and supporting patients and families with compassionate, ethical care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide personal care including bathing, oral hygiene, grooming, dressing, toileting, and linen changes
• Assist with ambulation, transfers, positioning, and range-of-motion exercises
• Prepare and assist with meals and feeding as assigned
• Take and record vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure) as directed
• Monitor skin integrity and report changes in patient condition to the Case Manager
• Assist with self-administered medication reminders (per state regulations)
• Maintain a clean, safe patient environment and use equipment properly
• Provide respite support to family/caregivers when appropriate
• Document care accurately and adhere to organizational policies and professional standards
• Participate in quality improvement activities

Qualifications:

• Minimum 75 hours of classroom and supervised practical training (per state requirements); must be at least 18 years old
• Current CPR certification
• Valid driver’s license, reliable insured vehicle, and willingness to travel
• Ability to read, write, and document care accurately
• Strong observation, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Commitment to hospice philosophy of care

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:

• Prolonged walking and standing
• Ability to lift, transfer, and position patients and equipment
• Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, and reaching
• Exposure to infectious diseases, body fluids, and varying home environments
• Regular travel between patient homes

Job Limitations:

This role does not include administering medications, taking physician orders, or performing skilled nursing procedures as defined by the Nurse Practice Act.

This position requires compassion, emotional stability, flexibility, and respect for diverse lifestyles, cultures, and beliefs.