Elder Care Support Specialist

Sheridan Memorial Hospital

At Sheridan Memorial Hospital, we proudly rank in the top 13.6% of U.S. hospitals, recognized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. With over 850 dedicated employees and 100+ expert providers across 25 specialties, we are committed to exceptional, patient-centered care. Set in northern Wyoming's stunning Big Horn Mountain foothills, Sheridan offers outdoor adventure and community charm. Our hospital combines cutting-edge technology with a collaborative, innovative culture. Join a team that values your skills, fosters growth, and empowers you to impact lives meaningfully. Apply today and be part of Sheridan Memorial Hospital's mission of excellence!

Job Summary

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) specializing in life enrichment and daily living support, including cooking and cleaning duties. This role involves providing exceptional care to residents, fostering a vibrant and fulfilling environment, and enhancing residents' quality of life through enrichment activities, meal preparation assistance, and maintaining a clean, comfortable living space. The position emphasizes creating a meaningful and positive impact on residents' lives through compassionate and dedicated support.

Essential Job Responsibilities

Direct Patient Care:

• Assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
• Help residents with mobility and transfers, including the use of assistive devices.
• Monitor and record vital signs, weight, and other health indicators.
• Assist with feeding and hydration, ensuring nutritional needs are met.
• Provide emotional support and companionship to residents.

Life Enrichment Activities:

• Collaborate with the team to plan and facilitate activities that promote residents' social, emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being.
• Encourage participation in group and individual activities such as arts and crafts, music therapy, exercise classes, and cognitive stimulation.
• Foster an inclusive and supportive environment that celebrates the diverse interests and abilities of residents.
• Assist residents in maintaining their independence and encouraging personal accomplishments.

Cooking and Meal Assistance:

• To contribute to the Green House Convivial philosophy.
• Collaborate with the Dietitian/Dietary Manager on procurement of foods needed to cook quality and nourishing foods for elders.
• Complete meal prep and cooking within the cottage.
• Serve out meals; provide set up assist, partial assistance, and full assistance to those elders who need help with eating.
• Provide therapeutic and textured diets with the direction of the Dietitian/Dietary Manager.
• Preparation and cooking of meals, desserts, snacks, etc on NOC shifts.
• Ensure that snacks and drinks are available throughout the day and assist with feeding when needed.
• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen and dining area with daily cleaning tasks and weekly tasks.

Cleaning and Household Duties:

• Perform light housekeeping tasks, including cleaning residents' rooms, changing bed linens, and ensuring the environment is comfortable and hygienic.
• Clean and sanitize common areas, bathrooms, and dining areas according to health and safety standards.
• Assist with laundry tasks for residents, including washing, folding, and organizing clothing and personal items.
• Ensure that supplies, such as linens, cleaning products, and personal hygiene items, are stocked and accessible.

Elder Support:

• Build strong, positive relationships with residents, understanding their personal preferences, interests, and care needs.
• Actively listen to residents and address concerns with empathy and professionalism.
• Support residents in maintaining personal routines and preferences.
• Assist with memory care activities and support residents with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia, ensuring a calm and nurturing atmosphere.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with the nursing team, Activities Director, Social Worker and family members to create care plans tailored to each resident's unique needs and interests.
• Document and report changes in residents' physical, emotional, or mental condition to the nursing staff.
• Participate in care team meetings to discuss residents' progress and update care plans accordingly.

Health and Safety:

• Ensure a safe and clean environment by following infection control protocols and maintaining equipment.
• Monitor and report any changes in residents' health status promptly.
• Follow proper hygiene practices and maintain safety standards in food preparation, cleaning, and caregiving activities.

Professional Development:

• Stay current with CNA certifications and continuing education in life enrichment and caregiving practices.
• Attend training sessions and workshops on therapeutic activities, meal preparation, and household management.

Position Qualifications

Education / Experience / License and Certifications:

• High School Diploma or GED, preferred.
• Current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the state of Wyoming.
• BLS, is required.
• Central Registry, required.
• Prior experience working with elderly, disabled, or cognitively impaired individuals is preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a compassionate, patient approach to caregiving.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Knowledge of basic nursing practices, life enrichment activities, and household management.
• Experience with cooking or meal preparation for individuals with special dietary needs is preferred.
• Ability to motivate and encourage residents to engage in meaningful activities.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

Additional Skills:

• Able to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Additional languages desirable.
• Basic computer knowledge.
• Demonstrated effective organizational skills.
• Ability to lift, move, and assist residents as needed.
• Exposure to health and safety risks related to patient care, including infection control standards.
• Exposure to odorous chemicals / specimens and Latex products.
• Pre-employment drug and alcohol screening is required.

Sheridan Memorial Hospital is an equal opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.