While the overall job description for hospice CNAs is basically the same as a position in most any medical facility, there are a few key differences. Anyone who has ever worked in hospice can tell you this specialized sector of care is in a league all its own.
 
At-Home Hospice Care
 
When a rapidly declining senior or terminally ill patient opts for at-home hospice care, a CNA plays an integral role in their care. Depending on the patient’s needs, you may be asked to stay round the clock, visit daily, or visit a couple days a week.
 
Your primary job is to perform the ADLs the senior is no longer able to do solo, and that their family members may not be equipped to complete. The majority of the care you provide will be hands-on, and keeping your patient clean and comfortable is top of mind.
 
Your level of interaction with friends and family will be more direct when you work in their home. You’ll also be responsible for providing mental and emotional support to both the patient and their loved ones.
 
You’ll also be required to report back to the nurse, physician, caregiving agency, or hospice agency to share any changes.
 
Hospice Facilities
 
The types of hands-on care required in hospice facilities is the same as with at-home hospice care, but the seniors who receive hospice care in a hospital or designated hospice facility may not have visiting friends and family. Even if friends and family do visit regularly, there may be long periods of time in which the patient is alone—meaning the mental and emotional support you provide may be more significant.
 
The Privilege of Providing End-of-Life Care
 
While there is certainly a sadness in knowing your role in a patient’s life is to keep them comfortable during their final days, it’s an honor and privilege to provide end-of-life care. You’re likely to hear and see many beautiful things in the weeks and days prior to death—heartwarming stories shared, life wisdom imparted, a reminder of the importance of living a life without regret, witnessing the connection with long-lost friends and family, and the acceptance that it’s time to move on from this world.
 
Your job description as a hospice CNA is to bathe, dress, apply lotion, help with bathroom and continence, and feed your patients—but you will quickly see that there’s so much more to hospice.