Welcome to The Kensington Falls Church, a distinguished assisted living and memory care community located in Falls Church, Virginia. We’re excited to offer thriving career opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) looking to start their path.
In 2024, there’s a growing shortage and demand for CNAs, highlighting the invaluable role of CNAs in the healthcare sector, especially in senior care.
The healthcare industry’s growing demand ensures that skilled CNAs will find a welcoming job market ripe with possibilities for professional advancement and personal fulfillment.
For new and experienced CNAs, this period presents an unparalleled opportunity for career stability and growth.
We invite you to join our family of Care Partners (CNAs, HHAs, PCAs) at The Kensington Falls Church.
Browse employment opportunities at The Kensington Falls Church.
What is the role of a CNA in a senior living community?
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are the backbone of assisted living and senior living communities. Their dedication, expertise, and compassionate care play an essential role in enhancing the quality of life for residents.
At The Kensington Falls Church, CNAs are integral to our commitment to providing top-tier care and support.
CNAs at senior living communities are involved in a wide range of activities and responsibilities, all focused on ensuring the well-being and comfort of the residents:
- Personal care assistance: CNAs help residents with daily activities such as bathing, eating, dressing, and grooming.
- Mobility support: They assist residents with walking, transferring, and moving, using proper techniques to ensure safety and prevent falls.
- Nutritional support: CNAs play a vital role in meal times, ensuring residents receive the nutrition they need, whether it’s assisting with eating or monitoring dietary restrictions and preferences.
- Emotional and social support: Beyond physical care, CNAs provide emotional support to residents. They engage in conversations, participate in social activities, and become a familiar, comforting presence in the lives of those they care for.
- Documentation and communication: Accurate documentation of care and effective communication with the healthcare team are crucial parts of a CNA’s role. They ensure that any changes in a resident’s condition are promptly and properly communicated.
Training requirements and certifications for CNAs
Below are the requirements for working as a Care Partner (CNA, HHA, PCA) at The Kensington Falls Church:
- High school diploma or equivalent: Essential for foundational education.
- Nurse aide certification: Required to practice as a CNA in Virginia.
- Medical/surgical or home care experience: At least one year preferred, with awareness of the needs of geriatric residents.
- Criminal background check: Must be cleared in a background check administered in the state of Virginia.
- Health screening: Demonstrates freedom from pulmonary tuberculosis, verified by a health screening.
- Communication skills: Must have excellent verbal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with a diverse range of people.
- Flexibility in hours: Ability to work various shifts, including weekends and evenings.
- Age requirement: Must be at least 18 years of age, unless certified as a Nurse Aide in Virginia.
Career pathways after CNA certification
Obtaining your CNA certification is often the first step in a diverse and rewarding career in senior healthcare.
Many CNAs leverage their hands-on patient care experience to pursue nursing careers, including becoming Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Registered Nurses (RNs), or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs).
The transition to nursing often involves additional schooling and certification, but the practical skills acquired as a CNA provide a significant advantage in these programs.
Beyond nursing roles, some CNAs go on to specialized areas such as physical rehabilitation to become physical, occupational, or speech therapists.
Additionally, with an aging population growing, there’s an increased need for geriatric specialists.
Don’t Have Your CNA Yet? Learn about The Kensington’s Direct Care Training Program!
Overcoming challenges and embracing rewards in CNA jobs
The role of a CNA can be both demanding at times, but also profoundly rewarding. It’s a career path that encompasses a spectrum of challenges and triumphs.
CNAs roles often engage in physically intensive tasks, such as assisting seniors with mobility, which requires physical stamina and resilience.
The emotional aspect of working closely with residents, especially in sensitive situations, can also be challenging at times. CNAs often develop deep bonds with those they care for, which can be rewarding but also require emotional fortitude and compassion.
There’s a profound sense of fulfillment that comes from knowing your work directly improves the lives of others, which is why CNAs often report high levels of job satisfaction.
Lastly, the CNA role is a platform for continuous learning and skill enhancement, from clinical skills to interpersonal communication, CNAs acquire a diverse skill set that serves as a foundation for professional growth and career advancement.
Certified Nursing Assistant jobs at The Kensington Falls Church
At The Kensington Falls Church, our team enjoys a distinctive environment that blends benefits, culture, and growth opportunities.
Our team members praise our community’s supportive atmosphere, emphasizing a family-life team that fosters personal and professional development.
CNA benefits and offerings include:
- Comprehensive benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance, alongside PTO and overtime options, cater to the well-being of the team.
- Professional development: The Kensington prioritizes career growth with opportunities for training and education, both on-site and externally.
- Supportive culture: A focus on treating staff like family, where respect, passion for excellence, and a spirit to serve are core values.
Start your journey as a CNA at The Kensington Falls Church: Now Hiring!
Begin your rewarding healthcare career path in a senior living community dedicated to exceptional care.
The Kensington Falls Church, a premier assisted living and memory care community in Virginia, is actively seeking passionate individuals for various CNA roles.
We invite you to explore the opportunities and learn about our Direct Care Training program to join a team where your contributions are valued and your growth is supported.
Visit our open job listings page to discover your place in our family and to learn more about how you can make a difference.
Contact us today to begin your fulfilling journey at The Kensington Falls Church.