CNA and CPR

mindofmidwifery, ADN · May 22, 2015

When I got hired as a CNA at my facility they provided CPR/BLS training. But, they also provided my CNA training

mirandaaa · May 22, 2015

Sorry, but that is a stupid policy. CPR is not rocket science & delaying it because the RN is not bedside can only harm the patient.

Totally agree.

It's good to have a CPR certification anyways, even for people not in healthcare. Never know when an accident or emergency happens and you can potentially save someone's life!

FlowerChild2005 · May 22, 2015

I work as a CNA in a hospital and we float units including the ER and we are responsible for calling and starting codes if necessary so I'd def take CPR class but be careful because some facilities require your CPR to be from American Heart Association.We had a few CNAS who were hired that had to retake a CPR class for that reason.

Missingyou, CNA · May 23, 2015

That's the way it is in our facility. Most of our residents are DNR

and even so, there is always at least one (usually 3, 1 on each side of the unit and the unit coordinator) RN within shouting distance....ALWAYS.

It really isn't such a "stupid" policy when you see the actual set up.

RainMom · May 24, 2015

Most of our residents are DNR...

Getting hung up on that mentality is why they put that policy in place. They may as well go all the way & make the policy to just call 911. (remember that story & thread?)

Can all three nurses respond to a code instantly? (They never get entangled in a complicated wound dressing, tube feedings, etc?) Or does the other staff stand & watch while a lone RN attempts compressions, breaths, & gathers the info/chart for EMS?

Just strikes me wrong.

funtimes · May 24, 2015

Getting hung up on that mentality is why they put that policy in place. They may as well go all the way & make the policy to just call 911. (remember that story & thread?)
Can all three nurses respond to a code instantly? (They never get entangled in a complicated wound dressing, tube feedings, etc?) Or does the other staff stand & watch while a lone RN attempts compressions, breaths, & gathers the info/chart for EMS?
Just strikes me wrong.

Exactly, that is going to be one tired RN when EMS gets there, they might wind up having to do CPR on her/him as well.

hookyarnandblanket · May 24, 2015

That's the way it is in our facility. Most of our residents are DNR
and even so, there is always at least one (usually 3, 1 on each side of the unit and the unit coordinator) RN within shouting distance....ALWAYS.
It really isn't such a "stupid" policy when you see the actual set up.

Our AHA BLS trainer said that there should be three people attending a code until the on call provider gets there. One person does the rescue breathing, one does chest compressions, and one runs the AED. They then switch in order to keep from getting fatigued. Other BLS certified staff may be asked to step in. We always have at least two nurses on duty but with all that needs to be done, CNAs are sometimes called upon to assist with a code.

Since our nurses also take care of the ER, if they have a patient they are attending to, and one of our patients on the floor codes, we have to be the ones to announce the code and start CPR until the ALS staff can take over. I can't imagine doing a code in your facility.

amason2021, CNA · Sep 15, 2024

Hospital I'm starting at Monday mandates we have it. And since I'm certified already, I just had to text proof of it to the recruiter that interviewed me on the phone. Made it easier for me.

LubbDubb77, BSN, RN · Sep 20, 2024

All programs are going to be different in one way or another. Bottom line, just get a BLS regardless if the program offers it or not. It is better to have it and not need it. Rather than be in a situation where you wish you had it.