Identify the professional qualities of a certified nurse aide (CNA).

Identification should include

• professional behavior (e.g., related to communication, language, email, social media, community presence, smartphone use around clients/residents/patients)
• personal characteristics (e.g., honesty, tact, integrity, dependability, empathy, respect)
• personal hygiene and grooming (e.g., tattoos, piercings, jewelry, nails, condition of uniform, perfumes and scented products)
• personal health.

Refer to Unit I in Nurse Aide Curriculum Links to an external site., Virginia Board of Nursing, Virginia Department of Health Professions, 2018.

Process/Skill Questions:

• What is the difference between personal and professional behavior?
• How can personal characteristics affect job performance?
• Why is it important to adhere to the agency’s or facilities guidelines and dress codes?
• Why are personal health habits important?
• Why is it important to refrain from wearing heavily scented products in a healthcare facility?