Position Overview:
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) plays a vital role in supporting the nursing team by providing direct patient care under the supervision of a licensed professional nurse. The CNA assists with preparing patients, equipment, and supplies for procedures, obtaining accurate patient information, and delivering personal care such as feeding, bathing, grooming, changing, and bed-making.
The CNA also contributes to patient and family education by reinforcing instructions provided by professional staff or physicians. Additional responsibilities include assisting with physical examinations, recording vital signs, and reporting changes in a patient’s condition.
The CNA acts within the standards of behavior of UNC Health Appalachian and the scope of practice defined by the State of North Carolina. The CNA’s conduct reflects our mission, vision, and values, demonstrating compassion, respect for dignity, and a commitment to patient-centered care.
Starting pay for this position begins at $17.87 per hour, with eligibility for shift differentials and full benefits beginning after 60 days of employment. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with education and experience.
The Perks and Benefits:
· Collaborative environment: Join a team of dedicated healthcare professionals committed to delivering exceptional patient care.
· Professional development: Access ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance your skills.
· Impactful work: Play a critical role in supporting patients and clinical teams in providing high-quality care.
· Location perks: Boone, North Carolina, located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, offers outdoor recreation including hiking, biking, kayaking, skiing, and more, along with shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
· Top-tier community: Boone features excellent schools, Appalachian State University, and has been ranked as one of the top places to live by Forbes, Southern Living, and Niche.
· Compensation: Starting at $17.87 per hour, plus shift differentials. Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment.
· Employee wellness program: The award-winning "Love Your Life" wellness program offers health screenings, incentives, and wellness resources for employees.
· Employee to Employee (E2E) program: Voluntary employee donations support coworkers experiencing unexpected financial hardships.
· Additional perks: Enjoy discounts for attractions such as Dollywood, Biltmore, Tweetsie Railroad, and more.
Key Responsibilities:
· Provide personal care and assistance with daily living activities including feeding, bathing, grooming, bed-making, and hygiene.
· Prepare patients, equipment, and supplies for procedures.
· Obtain and record accurate patient information and vital signs.
· Report changes in patient conditions to nursing staff.
· Assist with physical examinations and patient mobility as needed.
· Support patient education by reinforcing instructions from nurses or physicians.
· Uphold UNC Health Appalachian’s Mission, Vision, and Values through compassionate, respectful care.
Position Requirements:
Minimum Education:
· High School Diploma required at time of hire.
· Successful completion of a North Carolina-accredited CNA Program.
Experience:
· Previous CNA experience preferred but not required.
Required Registration/License/Certification:
· Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) licensed in North Carolina.
· Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association required at time of hire.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
· Understanding of CNA scope of practice and patient care processes.
· Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
· Ability to resolve conflicts and maintain professionalism in high-stress environments.
· Familiarity with the continuum of patient care.
· Commitment to providing exceptional customer service to patients, families, and staff.
· Basic computer skills including EMR data entry.
Physical Demands:
· Ability to lift, position, push, pull, and transfer more than 50 pounds.
· Manual dexterity and mobility required.
· Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, bending, squatting, twisting, and turning.
· Frequent repetitive hand, finger, and wrist movements.
· Visual acuity for close work at distances of 20 inches or less.
Working Conditions:
· Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens and healthcare hazards.
· Exposure to mechanical equipment, odorous chemicals, and unpleasant conditions.
· Irregular hours including days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergencies.
· Extended standing, walking, and patient mobilization exceeding 8 hours per shift.
· Periodic exposure to vibration, cramped spaces, and close-contact work environments.
About UNC Health Appalachian
UNC Health Appalachian, the healthcare leader for the High Country, includes three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. We are committed to promoting health, enhancing quality of life, and “making life better” in our region.
About UNC Health
UNC Health is an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system with 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses, and more than 500 clinics statewide. We improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and support the education of future healthcare professionals. For more information, visit unchealth.org.
UNC Health Appalachian is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, embracing diversity and promoting an inclusive hiring process. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any protected status. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.
Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.
For accommodations or additional information, contact recruitment@apprhs.org.
