Are you curious to know what is a STNA? You have come to the right place as I am going to tell you everything about a STNA in a very simple explanation. Without further discussion let’s begin to know what is a STNA?
In the healthcare industry, there are a multitude of roles and professionals dedicated to providing quality care to patients. Among them, State Tested Nursing Assistants (STNAs) play a vital role in assisting patients with their daily living activities and supporting registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. In this blog, we will explore what an STNA is, their responsibilities, training, and the essential role they play in the healthcare system.
What Is A STNA?
A State Tested Nursing Assistant, commonly referred to as an STNA, is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). STNAs are responsible for providing basic care to patients in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home care.
Responsibilities Of An STNA
STNAs have a wide range of responsibilities that revolve around patient care and support. Some of the primary duties include:
- Assisting with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): STNAs help patients with tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and feeding. They also provide assistance with toileting and mobility.
- Vital Signs Monitoring: STNAs may be responsible for measuring and recording vital signs, such as blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate, and temperature, under the guidance of nursing staff.
- Mobility Assistance: They assist patients in moving, turning, and transferring from beds to chairs or wheelchairs to prevent bedsores and maintain mobility.
- Feeding Assistance: STNAs help patients who may have difficulty eating or require special diets, ensuring they receive proper nutrition.
- Medication Reminders: While they cannot administer medications, STNAs can remind patients to take their prescribed medications as directed.
- Reporting: STNAs observe and report changes in patients’ conditions to nursing staff, ensuring that any concerns or issues are addressed promptly.
- Emotional Support: They provide emotional support and companionship to patients, which can be particularly important in long-term care settings.
Training And Certification
Becoming an STNA requires specific training and certification. The requirements for STNA training and certification can vary from state to state, but they generally include the following:
- Education: Prospective STNAs must complete a state-approved training program, typically offered by vocational schools, community colleges, or healthcare facilities. These programs cover essential topics such as patient care, infection control, and ethics.
- Clinical Experience: STNA programs include hands-on clinical training, where students gain practical experience in a healthcare setting, supervised by qualified instructors.
- State Competency Exam: After completing the training program, students must pass a state competency exam to become a certified STNA. The exam typically consists of both written and skills assessment components.
- Background Check: Many states require a criminal background check to ensure the safety and suitability of STNA candidates.
The Importance Of STNAs In Healthcare
State Tested Nursing Assistants play a crucial role in the healthcare system. They are often the frontline caregivers who provide essential support to patients, ensuring their comfort, safety, and well-being. STNAs also contribute to the overall efficiency of healthcare facilities by helping to manage patients’ daily needs, allowing registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to focus on more complex medical tasks.
Conclusion
State Tested Nursing Assistants (STNAs) are essential members of the healthcare team who provide vital care and support to patients in various healthcare settings. Their dedication to helping patients with daily living activities, monitoring vital signs, and offering emotional support makes them invaluable in the healthcare system. The training and certification process ensures that STNAs are well-prepared to provide compassionate care while upholding high standards of patient safety and well-being.
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FAQ
How Much Does A STNA Make In Ohio?
The average STNA salary in Ohio is $33,150 per year or $15.94 per hour.
What Is The Difference Between A Cna And A Nursing Assistant?
Nurse aides mostly provide care at patient’s homes, they are not allowed to work in most hospitals and other medical facility settings. CNAs primarily work in hospitals and other medical environments, such as nursing homes. CNAs can assist doctors and nurses in certain medical procedures.
How Long Does An STNA License Last In Ohio?
In the State of Ohio your STNA is good for a period of 2 years, given that you have worked 8 hours in a 24 month period. You can also review this information on the Ohio Department of Health website.
Do You Need A Diploma To Be An STNA In Ohio?
Ideally, you should be at least 16 years old. You don’t have to have a high school diploma, but it can be helpful, so can your GED. As long as you’re able to complete your training course with the required scores to pass and you pass your STNA exam, you’re able to be licensed in the state of Ohio. What Does an STNA Do?
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