It is crucial to recognize the invaluable contributions made by certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in year-round skilled nursing centers. These compassionate and dedicated individuals form the backbone of resident care, providing essential support to nurses and ensuring the well-being of those in their care.
Unfortunately, the looming health care worker shortage threatens to strain health care centers in the future. We can prevent the long-term impacts of this shortage if we encourage more Floridians to consider a career in health care and recognize CNAs for their unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of our state’s seniors and people with disabilities who reside in our nursing centers.
CNAs are the unsung heroes in our profession, working tirelessly on the front lines to provide comfort, assistance and care to residents across the country. They play a vital role in bridging the gap between residents and nurses, often acting as the eyes and ears of the nursing team. With their deep understanding of residents’ needs and exceptional interpersonal skills, CNAs build trusting relationships with residents and often become their second family. Through their consistent presence and attentive care, they offer a compassionate ear, a reassuring smile, and a helping hand during moments of distress.
At the Florida Health Care Association, we are doing our part to attract more CNAs to work in Florida’s nursing centers through the CaregiversFL Career Program. This program serves as a bridge between aspiring caregivers and fulfilling careers in health care. Through the CaregiversFL Career Program, job seekers gain access to resources for comprehensive training and can easily find job openings at skilled nursing centers near them. This initiative attracts a competent and compassionate workforce while providing opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Even after the National Nursing Assistants Week ends, our community must recognize and appreciate the incredible work of CNAs in nursing centers across Florida and beyond. Their selflessness, dedication, and unwavering commitment to resident care is a testament to the noble nature of their profession. The Florida Health Care Association extends our deepest gratitude to all CNAs for the positive impact they are making on the seniors and people with disabilities entrusted to their care.
To those interested in joining this profession, we encourage you to explore the CaregiversFL Career Program. It is a gateway to a fulfilling career that allows you to make a difference in the lives of others. Interested job seekers can learn more about the opportunities available at florida.carefortheaging.org/job-seekers.
Emmett Reed is the Chief Executive Officer of Florida Health Care Association, Florida’s first and largest advocacy organization for long term care providers and the residents entrusted to their care. He can be reached at [email protected].
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