At BBHC, certified nursing assistants (CNA) works with patients, nurses and doctors to ensure all records and communications are clear and comprehensive. Depending on the situation in which the CNA is working, they might also help with transporting patients to treatment or setting up medical equipment. They work closely with patients on a daily basis, so they have a unique perspective on overall wellness and emotional state. Compassion and understanding are critical in recovery. A CNA will help stroke patients, elderly persons and individuals recovering from an accident, injury or surgery. At BBHC, CNAs are responsible to:

• Observe and note any changes in patient’s behavior
• Feed, bathe and dress patients
• Take patient’s vital signs like temperature to blood pressure
• Serve meals and sometimes help patients eat
• Light housekeeping
• Set up medical equipment and assist with use
• Turn or reposition people who stay in bed or use wheelchairs
• Research conditions and treatment plans for caregivers, nurses or doctors
• Diligent monitoring of any troubling signs such as bruises, blood or wounds
• Clean up of bed pans, soiled sheets and linens.

A BBHC home health aide takes care of a patient by helping with all the things in life that enable them to cope. Most of us take for granted our ability for self care: basics such as meal planning, housekeeping, or personal care. But for the person who may be elderly, aging, sick or suffering an illness, the challenge can be mountainous, and oftentimes family members or those close to them have full lives or day jobs. An HHA can be a game changer for those who want to live independently. This is a perfect supplemental service for anyone who is aging or is  struggling with illness, disability or other limitations and needs personalized care or assistance. An HHA will definitely offer a helping hand, escort you to appointments, monitor your condition and offer companionship, among other tasks. Depending on your situation, an HHA can help you with:

• Non-medical personal care
• Assistance with mobility
• Teaching family members about safety precautions
• Medication reminders and prescription pick-up
• Escort to appointments or meetings
• Moving and lifting patients as required
• Cleanliness and infection control
• Nutritional advice as appropriate
• Perform emergency procedures or finding someone who can.

Illness or disability often comes with depression and apathy, be it intermittent or constant. This is why Companion Care is so important. Unlike a nurse or a doctor, whose primary responsibilities revolve around medical needs, companion care workers can help a patient feel less isolated when family or friends are overwhelmed or simply not available. Whether it be a walk in the park, some good conversation or a board game, a CCW can accommodate.

They differ from Home Health Aides in that CCW’s are focused on companionship, socialization and emotional support. Here are some of the other things they may help with:

• Cooking, cleaning the kitchen or taking out the garbage
• Cooperation and support in personal projects such as cleaning out a closet
• Assisting with tasks that require fine motor skills such as sorting pills or chopping vegetables
• Work with you in ensuring you eat regularly
• Companionship on errands or shopping
• Planning or scheduling health appointments and social activities
• Liaison between family members and other care professionals.