What do CNAs do?

A&OxNone, MSN, RN · Feb 25, 2012

I'm a nursing student in her final year, and I'm just curious as to what nursing assistants do in paediatric wards/hospitals besides taking vital signs? Do they mostly do stocking or specials?I'm very interested in paediatrics, and aspire to become a paediatric nurse following my registration.

Our CNAs do a lot more than just vitals. You have to remember that not all children have parents there, so feedings and diapers are done by the nurses and CNAs. Also, just because they are children doesn't mean they dont have drains and intake and outputs to be measured. Because I work on a chronic floor, a lot of our kids have feedings through NG or Gtubes, so our CNAs set those up. During the day, they make sure beds are changed and kiddos get a bath, just like on an adult floor. Hope this is helpful!

newbie12 · Feb 25, 2012

Thank you very much for your comment! It was very helpful :)I did a placement in a small rural hospital in my first year, and was on the children's ward for a week - although it was very quiet and it seemed as if all the nurses were having tea breaks every 2 hours, I remember it being so so rewarding.

Double-Helix, BSN, RN · Feb 25, 2012

In the PICU, our CNA's are responsible for stocking the supply carts, ordering supplies, gathering equipment, setting up rooms for admissions, and helping with multiple other odd tasks. They also do diaper changes, baths and feedings when needed and help console/hold the young children.

On the general floor, the CNA's do vitals, bathing, linen changes, feedings, diaper changes, play with the kids, help set up the rooms, and stock supplies.

newbie12 · Mar 4, 2012

Thank you for your reply, Ashley!

I guess I'll find out soon, I was just informed a few days ago that one of the children's hospitals in my city that I interviewed for a CNA position at are offering me the position! I am so excited to begin, I cannot wait.