Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): Nursing Assistants

Nursing assistants play a critical role in healthcare as they provide basic care and assistance to patients under the supervision of a licensed nurse. They work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare.

Some of the responsibilities of nursing assistants include assisting patients with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and eating, taking vital signs, turning and repositioning patients who are bedridden, and assisting with mobility and exercise. They may also be responsible for observing and reporting any changes in a patient’s condition to the nursing staff.

Nursing assistants play a vital role in helping to maintain patient comfort and prevent complications such as bedsores and infections. They may also provide emotional support to patients and their families, which can be particularly important for patients who are hospitalized or receiving long-term care.

In addition, nursing assistants may play a role in infection prevention and control by ensuring that patients are following proper hygiene protocols and by monitoring for signs of infection. They may also assist with the implementation of isolation precautions for patients who are contagious or at high risk for infection.

Overall, nursing assistants are essential members of the healthcare team, providing vital support and care to patients while helping to ensure the overall quality and safety of healthcare services.