When it comes to providing health care, there are many different levels in many different areas.   It's safe to say that the majority of us have received some form of health care throughout our lives, be it as casual as an annual check up or as serious as an emergency surgery. The usual encounters are with family physicians and nurses, perhaps a rehabilitation therapist or even a specialist now and then. However, if you've ever experienced an extended stay in the hospital or a rehab center, you undoubtedly received care from a CNA or Certified Nursing Assistant.

The role of the CNA is to provide daily care to patients and residents of nursing homes and assisted living communities.  This may include bathing, feeding and toileting.  CNAs also provide physical and emotional support to their patient or resident in care, as well as loved ones involved.  This is especially true in a senior living community. CNAs are often assigned to residents.  This means that the resident is cared for by the same people everyday and a relationship forms, as well as trust built.  This is also a comfort to family members.  Knowing that someone is caring for their loved one as an individual relieves a lot of the stress that may accompany the situation. 

Doctors and nurses also benefit from the presence of a CNA.  Personal physicians and nurses usually do not have the time to attend to patients/residents on a daily basis.  CNAs are trained to monitor treatments and medications.  They can chart the progress of the patient/resident and can report any changes, good or bad, to the appropriate doctor. This helps to create a constant flow of communication between resident, family, doctors and staff which in turn enables the best care to be given.

Though, it is always the right time to show appreciation for the hard work CNAs do, June 10th-17th is National Nursing Assistants Week. McKinley Court Care Centre would to thank all of their on-staff CNAs and highlight all of them individually.  It seems appropriate to begin this week.

       Sylvia Robinson has been at McKinley Court Care Centre for over 10 years.  Born and raised in Decatur, Illinois she has been married for 25 years. Sylvias has 2 children and 8 grandchildren.  She received her certification from Richland Community College and hopes to work at McKinley Court Care Centre until she retires.  When asked what she likes about being a CNA, Sylvia's response was "I enjoy working with seniors and I try to bring as much joy to them as they bring to me.  I love my job and what I do everyday."