Special Procedures

In many health care facilities, nursing assistants will care for patients who have undergone unique procedures. They may require special monitoring and training to be properly addressed. An example includes intubation. Intubation is the insertion of a tube into the body through which the patient gets vital oxygen and nutrients.

Future CNAs must also be knowledgeable to care for patients who have had a colostomy procedure. This includes monitoring the patient’s intake and output. While CNAs do not put these tubes into place, they will evaluate and monitor patients who have had these procedures. They will report any changes to the supervising nurse.

Not to be outdone, a Home Health Aide will also learn about special procedures or unique patient circumstances. Some HHAs will find themselves managing very complex patients, even in the home setting.