Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – Home Care (Pennsylvania)

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pennsylvania provides essential in-home care services to clients under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), in accordance with Pennsylvania Department of Health guidelines. The CNA plays a key role in supporting clients to remain safely in their homes while maintaining independence, dignity, and quality of life.

Key Responsibilities

Assist clients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and oral hygiene

Provide support with mobility, transfers, and ambulation using proper techniques and assistive devices

Assist with meal preparation, feeding (if needed), and monitor nutritional intake

Measure and document vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure) as directed

Perform light housekeeping tasks (laundry, dishes, tidying living areas) to maintain a safe environment

Remind clients to take medications (as permitted; no administration unless authorized by license)

Observe, document, and report any changes in the client’s condition to the supervising nurse

Provide companionship and emotional support to enhance overall well-being

Qualifications

Valid Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification in Pennsylvania (active on PA Nurse Aide Registry)

Current CPR/BLS certification (preferred or required by agency)

Experience in home care, personal care, or related healthcare setting preferred

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to work independently in a client’s home environment

Must comply with HIPAA and maintain strict confidentiality

Physically able to assist with lifting, transfers, and extended periods of standing/walking

Reliable transportation and valid driver’s license (often required for home care roles)

Work Environment

Services are provided in private homes or community-based settings

One-on-one care model with individualized care plans

Flexible scheduling may include days, evenings, weekends, and holidays

CNA works with minimal supervision but under direction of a licensed nurse and agency care plan

Compensation

Compensation varies based on experience, case complexity, and location within Pennsylvania

Typical hourly range: $18–$20 per hour in home care settings

May include benefits such as:

Mileage reimbursement

Flexible scheduling

Health benefits (depending on status)

Paid training opportunities

Additional Information

Must follow all agency policies, state home care regulations, and client care plans

Services must remain within CNA scope of practice in Pennsylvania (no skilled nursing tasks unless properly delegated and permitted)

Required to complete ongoing in-service training and competency evaluations

Maintain accurate and timely documentation for all services provided