“Leading from the floor”
What is the most important leadership skill a Charge Nurse can show during a busy shift?
Staying calm, supportive, and solution-focused.
What should the Charge Nurse review at the start of each shift?
Report, census, new orders, and staffing assignments
What is the most important duty of a CNA?
Provide direct care and ensure residents’ comfort, safety, and dignity.)
Who does the CNA report to during the shift?
The Charge Nurse
What is the shared goal of CNAs and Charge Nurses on every shift?
To provide safe, consistent, compassionate care for every resident.)
When a CNA reports a change in condition, what should the Charge Nurse do first?
Assess the resident immediately and document or notify as required.
How often should nurses perform and document rounds
.Regularly throughout the shift to observe residents’ condition
What must a CNA do before and after every resident contact?
Wash or sanitize hands.
When a nurse gives instruction, what should the CNA do?
Listen carefully, ask questions if unsure, and follow through promptly.
When a CNA reports a change in a resident’s condition, what should the nurse do — and why?
Assess immediately and thank the CNA; quick response builds trust and protects the resident.)
When CNAs are struggling, what should a Charge Nurse do first?
Step in, help, and teach — don’t just correct.
When a CNA gives you an update, how do you reinforce good communication
Thank them, act on it, and provide feedback on outcomes.
Why is accurate documentation important for CNAs?
It communicates the resident’s condition and protects both the resident and caregiver.)
How should CNAs handle personal conflicts at work?
Stay professional and discuss concerns privately with the Charge Nurse
What’s one behavior that strengthens teamwork between CNAs and nurses?
Clear, respectful communication and mutual follow-through on tasks
What’s one way a Charge Nurse demonstrates accountability?
Follows up on delegated tasks and verifies completion
Why must Charge Nurses monitor documentation closely
It ensures accuracy, continuity, and survey compliance.)
How can CNAs help prevent pressure injuries
urn and reposition residents, monitor skin, and report changes immediately.)
What is the proper way to handle a resident’s personal information?
Maintain confidentiality — never discuss outside of care needs
How does accountability look different — but connected — between CNAs and Charge Nurses?
CNAs are accountable for care delivery and reporting; Charge Nurses are accountable for oversight and follow-up — both depend on each other.)
How should the Charge Nurse respond to short staffing or high workload
Prioritize safety, adjust assignments, and assist directly as needed.
When the physician or DON gives new orders, what must the Charge Nurse ensure
: That orders are transcribed, communicated, and implemented properly
What should a CNA do if a resident refuses care?
Report to the nurse and document the refusal accurately.
What’s the best way CNAs and nurses can build trust?
Communicate openly, show respect, and follow through on commitments
When stress or conflict rises during a shift, what’s the best practice for both CNAs and nurses?
Stay professional, refocus on resident needs, and address issues privately, not on the floor.)