Can You Be Fired From Being a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or State-Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA)?

Yes, just because you have the certificate to be a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) or STNA (State-Tested Nursing Assistant) does not guarantee a long-lasting career. Employment in this field can be fraught with challenges that may lead to termination. Your performance, adherence to policies, and overall conduct all play crucial roles in ensuring your continued employment.

Common Reasons for Termination

There are several reasons why CNAs and STNAs might be terminated from their jobs. It’s essential to understand these factors and strive to succeed in your role.

Violation of Workplace Policies

Employers have specific policies and regulations that CNAs and STNAs are expected to follow. Failure to comply with these policies can result in disciplinary actions, including termination. Common violations might include:

Attendance and Punctuality: Failing to show up for work or being frequently late can lead to disciplinary actions and ultimately termination. Uniform and Safety Regulations: Not adhering to dress codes, safety protocols, or other workplace standards can result in termination. Communication and Documentation: Poor communication with staff and failure to document patient care properly can lead to issues and termination. Other Policies: Not abiding by other specific policies unique to your workplace can also result in termination.

Negligence or Misconduct

CNAs and STNAs are responsible for providing care and support to patients. Negligence or misconduct that jeopardizes their safety or well-being can lead to termination. Situations where this might happen include:

Neglect: Failing to perform necessary tasks, such as checking vital signs or administering medications, can result in termination. Misconduct: Behaviors such as stealing from patients, engaging in illegal activities, or mistreating patients can also lead to termination. Violation of Patient Privacy: Breaching patient confidentiality or using patient information improperly can result in termination.

Failing to Meet Job Expectations

CNAs and STNAs are expected to provide a high level of care and support to patients. Employers rely on their knowledge and skills to provide the best possible care. If an employee fails to meet these expectations, termination may occur. This can be due to:

Low Patient Satisfaction: Poor patient satisfaction scores can indicate that your care is not up to standard. Quality of Care: If the quality of care provided is not on par with industry standards, it can lead to termination. Peer Reviews: Negative feedback from peers or managers can result in disciplinary actions and termination.

Performance Issues

Employers continuously monitor the performance of their employees. If an employer determines that an employee is not performing their duties to the expected level, it can result in disciplinary actions, including termination. Key factors include:

Medical Errors: Making mistakes in medical procedures or patient care can lead to termination. Efficiency and Productivity: Lack of efficiency or productivity in completing tasks can also result in termination. Training and Development: Inadequate completion of required training or failure to adapt to new procedures can lead to termination.

Understanding and Adhering to Workplace Policies and Expectations

Being a CNA or STNA is a critical role in the healthcare industry, and employers have high expectations for their employees in this position. As such, it is important to:

Stay Informed: Regularly review and understand company policies and procedures. Seek Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from supervisors and colleagues to identify areas for improvement. Actively Learn: Continuously seek opportunities for professional development and training. Practice Ethically: Always adhere to ethical and professional standards in patient care.

In conclusion, while becoming a CNA or STNA is an important and rewarding career, understanding the potential risks and actively working to avoid disciplinary actions is crucial. By adhering to workplace policies and expectations, and maintaining a high level of performance and integrity, you can secure a lasting and fulfilling career in this field.