Nursing assistants give personal care to patients in hospitals and nursing homes. They work under the direction of nurses and doctors.

Nursing assistants provide basic care to patients in hospitals and residents in nursing homes. They typically:

• Clean and bathe patients or residents
• Help patients get dressed
• Answer call bells
• Prepare food trays and help patients eat
• Clean rooms and change bedding

At the beginning of their shift nursing assistants check with the supervising nurse for instructions about each patient. They often read chart notes to get updates on patients.

Depending on their training and the state they work in, nursing assistants may give medicines to patients as directed by the supervising nurse or doctor. They also keep records of the amount of food eaten and liquid output.

When patients must stay in bed, nursing assistants help them turn or reposition themselves. They clean bedpans and help patients clean their teeth and wash and brush their hair. They also move patients to exam rooms or operating rooms using wheelchairs or moveable beds.

When family members are visiting, nursing assistants may talk to them while cleaning or working in the room. They may explain some medical instructions to patients and family members.

In nursing homes, nursing assistants develop close relationships with the residents. They watch patients for change in mental alertness or emotions. When they see changes, they notify the supervising nurse.

Sometimes nursing assistants set up and monitor equipment. They record vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and respiration. They may collect samples of bodily fluids. They also prepare and stock dressing and treatment trays.

At the end of their shift, nursing assistants report patient information to the supervisor or the nursing assistant who is coming on duty.