Incentive for aides

Someone should approach a magazine like Readers Digest to hold a caregiver or CNA of the year recognition certificate like they do for teachers

Good idea, when you gonna write to RD? Hugs! Actually, a suggestion from a DON who employs CNAs would probably carry more weight...but try it and see what happens. Maybe start at your local newspaper level...

Recognition programs are a good idea...a suggestion is to start with a more local view as many may be in place already.

In Maine the Long Term Care Ombudsman offer an annual recognition for "Outstanding Caregivers" from around the state. Facilities are encouraged to nominate an outstanding care giver in their orgainization. Submitting with the nomination an essay to outline the reasons the individual deserves the award. The Ombudsman have a panel of judges who meet and select winners from around the state. The winners, a guest and the nominating organization's representative attend a ceremony at the State Capital attended by the governor and key legislators/senators involved with healthcare.

The Maine Health Care Association offers a similar reward program with similiar criteria. The winners and a guest are given the opportunity to attend the annual MHCA conference and are part of a recognition progra there.

These recognition programs of course are beyond those specific to the organization they are employed by.

Since their implementation and as a part of C.N.A. education there has been great emphasis placed on recognizing and rewarding the exceptional and to increase self esteem and self respect among these important member of the health care team.

I know this is an older post but as a cna myself I can tell you that nurse such as yourself are one in a million

God Bless You!


Stephanie CNA Asheville,NC