What does a State Tested Nursing Assistant do?
Published 3 min read
A State Tested Nursing Assistant is a certified professional who provides basic nursing care and assists with activities of daily living under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse.
State Tested Nursing Assistant job duties include:
- Assist patients with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, and transferring
- Measure and record patients' vital signs, such as height, weight, blood pressure, temperature, and pulse
- Help patients ambulate, or walk, by providing arm support
- Serve meals to patients and help them eat
- Collect information about patients' health histories
- Turn or reposition bedridden patients to prevent bedsores
- Perform basic nursing tasks, such as applying bandages and changing dressings
- Answer patients' calls for assistance and provide comfort and reassurance
- Help transport patients to diagnostic tests and treatment procedures
- Provide emotional support to patients and their families
State Tested Nursing Assistant Job Requirements
State Tested Nursing Assistants (STNAs) are required to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and must complete a state-approved training program. They must also pass a competency exam to be certified. STNAs typically have previous experience working in long-term care facilities or hospitals.
State Tested Nursing Assistant Skills
- Providing personal care
- Assisting with activities of daily living
- Transferring and ambulating patients
- Providing range of motion exercises
- Performing basic nursing skills
- Monitoring vital signs
- Collecting specimens
- Documenting patient information
- Assisting with medical procedures
- Maintaining a clean and safe environment
- Educating patients and families
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How to become a State Tested Nursing Assistant
A State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) is a vital member of the healthcare team who provides basic patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. STNAs are found in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies. If you are interested in becoming an STNA, there are a few things you need to do.
First, you will need to complete an accredited STNA training program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges or technical schools and take about 10-12 weeks to complete. During your training, you will learn basic nursing skills such as how to take vital signs and provide personal care to patients.
After completing your training, you will then need to pass the Ohio Nurse Aide Competency Exam. This exam consists of a written portion and a skills demonstration. Once you pass the exam, you will be placed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry and be able to begin working as an STNA.
If you are interested in providing high-quality patient care and becoming a vital member of the healthcare team, then becoming an STNA may be the right career choice for you!
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