Nursing Assistant

Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.

Basic Requirements:

1. Education: One year above high school with courses related to the CNA occupation. Completion of an intensive, specialized, occupation-related course of study of less than one year which resulted in attaining certification as a nursing assistant may also meet in full the experience requirements for GS-3.
2. U.S. Citizenship
3. Certification as a CNA by a State is a basic requirement for all grade levels or the on the job experience at the facility for currently employed staff.
4. Once certified, CNAs must maintain a full, active and unrestricted certification to remain qualified for employment. Loss of certification will result in removal from the GS-621 CNA series and may result in termination of employment.
5. Meets physical standards consistent with VA Directive and handbook 5019.
6. Is proficient in English.
7. Current BLS certification (American Heart Association)

May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).

GS-5:One year of progressively responsible assignments and experience equivalent to the GS-4 level which demonstrates knowledge, skills, and abilities that are directly related to the specific assignment. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the professional KSAs identified below.

OR Successful completion of a 4-year course of study above high school leading to a bachelor's degree that included 24 semester hours of courses related to health care or possession of a bachelor's degree;

AND In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:

• Ability to assist in the full range of nursing care to patients/residents with physical and/or behavioral problems in a hospital, long term care or outpatient setting under the direction of a Registered Nurse and/or Licensed Vocational Nurse/Licensed Practical Nurse.
• Ability to communicate orally with patients/residents, families, interdisciplinary team and other personnel. This includes serving as a preceptor to new NAs by assisting with the coordination of their orientation and overseeing/assessing their practical experience while in a clinical setting.
• Ability to recognize and react to emergent patient/resident care situations and intervene while waiting for assistance

References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G46. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office. The full performance level of this vacancy is 5. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is 5.

Physical Requirements: Walking, bending, stooping, and some lifting in the direct care of patients. There may also be extended periods of sitting.