Reference

[cardiacmadeline, RN]

I need some advice. A CNA asked me if I could be a reference for her. I really didn't want to, but I said yes anyways. Well, I have been hoping no one would call me, but I got a message from a place she applied to and I need to call them back tomorrow. My problem is this: She is not exactly a great CNA. I am worried they will ask me questions and I won't have a good answer to them. I am trying to think of positive things I can say about her (it is, unfortunately, proving to be kind of difficult) and I will try to mention those when I call them back tomorrow. And I will give very brief answers, not going into great detail. And I can't lie and say she is a great CNA when she isn't. Any more advice? I don't want to give a bad reference.

[getoverit, BSN, RN, EMT-P]

You can just tell them "There aren't enough good things to say about her".

Let them take it however they want.

[Lovely_RN, MSN]

If the potential employer asks questions that you have a negative answer to you're better of saying

"I don't wish to comment on that or No comment"

Only answer questions when you have a positive statement to make.

Example:

"Was Jane Doe a punctual CNA?"

"Yes, Jane Doe is one of the most punctual CNAs that I have ever worked with. In the course of a year she was only late once and that was due to circumstances beyond her control. You can always count on Jane Doe to be on time."

"Did Jane Doe treat her assigned resident's with respect?"

"No comment"

The employer will be able to read between the lines w/o you leaving yourself open to an accusation of slander.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

the big question may be "is she eligible for re-hire?"

If you do not work in HR or were not the hiring supervisor, say so. Do not volunteer info on this one for sure.