CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT

Certified Nursing Assistant Independent

The Department of Human Services is a place for people passionate about serving others and changing lives for the better. We care for Arkansans of all ages and ensure places like child care centers and nursing homes are safe. We are the safety net for the most vulnerable Arkansans. Whether you answer the phones, take applications, protect children, or help care for residents or patients at one of our facilities, you make a difference by working at DHS. Plus, working for the State has great perks, including a pension, maternity leave, paid state holidays, and much more. At DHS, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.

Position Information

Job Series : Health Trades

Classification : Certified Nursing Assistant Independent

Class Code : THT01I

Pay Grade : SGS03

Salary Range : $39,171 - $57,973

Job Summary

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides direct patient care under the supervision of licensed nursing staff in a state-run healthcare facility, correctional institution, veterans' home, or other state-operated medical setting. This role involves assisting patients with daily activities, monitoring vital signs, maintaining hygiene, and ensuring patient comfort. CNAs play a crucial role in supporting nursing teams and improving the quality of care for patients.

Primary Responsibilities

Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and oral care. Help patients with mobility needs, including repositioning, transferring, and using assistive devices such as wheelchairs or walkers. Support patients with feeding and hydration, ensuring proper nutrition and dietary needs are met. Measure and record vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration) and report abnormalities to nursing staff. Observe patients for changes in physical or emotional condition and report concerns to nurses or medical personnel. Record and document patient information accurately and timely in medical charts or electronic health records. Assist in setting up and cleaning medical equipment used in patient care. Follow infection control protocols to prevent the spread of disease and ensure a safe healthcare environment. Maintain cleanliness in patient rooms, restrooms, and common areas to support sanitary conditions.

Knowledge and Skills

Knowledge of patient hygiene, mobility assistance, and nutrition support. Ability to accurately measure and record temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure. Understanding of sanitation practices, personal protective equipment (PPE) use, and disease prevention. Ability to maintain accurate patient records and communicate observations effectively. Familiarity with basic life support (BLS) protocols, recognizing signs of distress, and alerting medical personnel.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required.

Licensure / Certifications

Must maintain an active Arkansas CNA certification and complete required continuing education as mandated by state regulations. Other job related education and / or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the qualifications review committee.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.