What is the role of a certified nursing assistant?

The role of a certified nursing assistant (CNA) primarily revolves around assisting patients with daily living activities. This includes helping patients with tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and maintaining personal hygiene. CNAs work closely with registered nurses and are vital members of the healthcare team, ensuring that patients receive the support they need for a better quality of life, especially when they are unable to perform these tasks independently due to injury, illness, or the effects of anesthesia.

In contrast, other options reflect responsibilities that fall outside of the CNA's training and scope of practice. For instance, cleaning and preparing operating rooms is typically the duty of surgical technicians or environmental service staff, while monitoring surgical equipment and providing anesthesia are responsibilities associated with anesthesia providers or technologists who have specialized training. The distinction highlights the specific and essential support role that CNAs play in patient care within a healthcare setting.