Nursing assistants play a vital role in the healthcare system. They provide essential support to nurses and ensure the well-being of patients. To excel in this profession, it's crucial to possess a specific set of skills beyond medical knowledge. In this article, we'll explore seven key skills you need as a nursing assistant to thrive in this challenging yet rewarding career.
Compassion and empathy are at the heart of a nursing assistant's role. Patients often find themselves in vulnerable situations, dealing with illness, pain, or distress. Your ability to show genuine care and understanding can make a significant difference in their overall experience. Compassion also extends to their families, who may be anxious or emotional. A compassionate nursing assistant not only provides physical care but emotional support as well.
Effective communication is essential for any healthcare professional. Nursing assistants must communicate clearly and efficiently with patients, families, nurses, and other healthcare staff. Having good communication skills will help you understand patient needs, provide updates to the nursing team, and create a comfortable environment. Listening attentively, asking questions, and using non-verbal cues are vital aspects of good communication in healthcare settings.
Nursing assistants are responsible for many routine tasks, such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with daily activities. Being detail-oriented is crucial to ensure accuracy and patient safety. Small errors in medication dosage or patient documentation can have significant consequences. By paying attention to detail, you can help prevent mistakes and maintain a high standard of care.
Working in healthcare often means dealing with unpredictable situations and challenging patients. Patience is essential when providing care to individuals who may be agitated, confused, or in pain. Additionally, nursing assistants must be flexible and adaptable to handle changes in patient conditions, schedules, and tasks. The ability to stay calm under pressure and adjust to evolving situations is invaluable in this profession.
Healthcare is a collaborative field where multiple professionals work together to provide comprehensive care to patients. Nursing assistants must function well within a team, working alongside nurses, doctors, therapists, and other support staff. Being a team player involves effective communication, a willingness to help others, and the ability to follow instructions while also taking initiative when necessary.
In healthcare, unexpected challenges can arise at any moment. Nursing assistants should have strong problem-solving skills to address issues quickly and effectively. Whether it's finding a solution to a patient's discomfort or responding to an emergency situation, the ability to think critically and make informed decisions is essential for ensuring patient well-being.
The role of a nursing assistant can be physically and emotionally demanding. You'll often find yourself on your feet for extended periods, lifting and moving patients, and dealing with emotionally challenging situations. It's crucial to maintain physical fitness and practice self-care to prevent burnout. Emotional resilience is equally important, as witnessing illness and suffering can be emotionally taxing. Seek support from colleagues and supervisors and practice stress-management techniques to cope with the emotional demands of the job.
Becoming a skilled nursing assistant goes beyond mastering medical procedures; it involves developing a well-rounded skill set that encompasses compassion, communication, attention to detail, patience, flexibility, teamwork, problem-solving, physical fitness, and emotional resilience. These skills are not only essential for providing high-quality care but also for finding fulfillment and success in the nursing assistant profession. By continually working on improving these skills, you'll not only excel in your role, but also contribute to the well-being of the patients you serve.
My name is Alyson Harris. I am currently enrolled in the Medical Assistant course at Ross Medical Education Center. I think Ross Medical Education Center is a wonderful place to learn, not only because of the job preparation and knowledge they give you, but also because of the care from the staff and the close friendships formed that becomes your support system all through your education. The dedication of the instructors to give you the best learning experience possible shows through all the extra work put in to help us succeed in all aspects of the course. Going back to school was a difficult decision for me but Ross has made it so much easier. That is why I would recommend attending any of their programs to anyone just beginning their college education or looking for a career change.
Alyson Harris Graduate Medical Assistant student at Brighton, MI campus Graduation: April 24, 2019
Ross was a huge leap for me. I have never been one to like school or do well in school. I came to Ross searching for a new beginning, a fresh start. I came searching for MY purpose in the world. Before I even walked through the doors I prayed that God would just lead me in the direction he wanted me to go. When I walked through the doors I was immediately welcomed by warm, smiling faces and sweet hellos. I knew immediately this was the place for me. When I signed up for classes I was really scared. I was scared of failure and rejection. When I finally got into the class, I was so wrong. The instructor went above and beyond to try to help me succeed. I exceeded even my own best expectations of myself. I believe my success was not only driven by my determination, but also the support I received from all of the staff here at Ross. This decision changed my life for the better. It gave me the confidence to continue to step out of my comfort zone. It gave me the courage to try new things. It gave me a better self-image. It taught me that even though things may be tough, if I just keep my head up and push through, I can overcome anything! Ross has been nothing short of a blessing for me. I would highly recommend it to anyone. Especially to the ones who never thought they could. With a good support system and a little determination, you can do anything!
Brooklyn Willett Graduate Medical Assistant student at Owensboro, KY campus Graduation: February 14, 2019
Hello! My name is Raeven Barnes. I am twenty five years old, and I am from Kalamazoo, MI. I made the decision to come to Ross Medical because I was sick. I was basically living in the hospital on and off for about ten years. I saw the opposite side of the medical world while being a patient and fighting for my life. Unfortunately, while being under the care of certain medical professionals, there was little to no empathy. I started to have this desire to help others like me. I have been through the storm in my life and now that I'm healthy I am so happy to be attending Ross. I can't wait to become a Pharmacy Technician and make a difference in someone's life.
Raeven Barnes Graduate Pharmacy Technician student at Kalamazoo, MI campus Graduation: August 26, 2019
Ross Medical Education Center is a very good school. The entire staff is extremely helpful. There is a lot of hands-on material in each module. The teachers in the Medical Assisting program are amazing and we are learning a lot.
Brisilda Malcellari Graduate Medical Assistant student at Canton, MI campus Graduation: July 19, 2019
My experience at Ross has been one of the most liberating experiences in my life. I came to Ross because I needed a change in my life. Nothing else was working and I felt as if I was stuck in a rut, so I had to make a choice. I was scrolling through Facebook one day and the ad popped up… Hmmm six-to-nine month courses? I figured I could do that, considering my excuse had been that school takes too long and I do not have time to balance that and being a single mom. I did my research and realized every job I had applied for fit right into the MIBOA program. I was intrigued so I decided to check them out. When I came in, everyone was nice and very helpful. They gave me an in-depth view on the program and what to expect. They assured me they were a nationally accredited school and their graduation rates were great. I was won over by them showing me the rising stats related to the field and that alone gave me the push I needed to go ahead and apply. I am very glad I did. I had one of the best instructors, aside from everyone helping me and keeping me motivated. The class size was small so I had a lot of one on one, any questions I had I could literally ask anyone and if they did not know they could get me to someone that did. At times it was overwhelming, I do admit, but I made it - and not alone - that is the best part. Soon I was in my last mod and on my way to externship as a proud student of Ross Education Center and now I feel like I am ready for anything. Thank you, Ross. My new life started here.
Jessica Henderson Graduate Medical Insurance Billing and Office Administration student at Fort Wayne, IN campus Graduation: February 26, 2019
