Careers in Focus: Certified Nursing Assistant

Anyone who has worked in a nursing home or skilled nursing facility will know that while rewarding, the work can be very emotionally and physically demanding. That was never more true than in the last couple of years as staff put themselves and their families at risk to care for and protect patients and residents during the pandemic.

When you speak with staff in long-term care settings, you begin to notice a theme: that for many, their work is a passion, something that they felt called to do.

“I see it as an opportunity to step up and be the kind of person who can be in someone else’s life,” says Thomas Diaz.

Thomas travels from White Haven to Wilkes-Barre for his shift as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Allied Services Meade Street Skilled Nursing. The facility provides long-term and short-term rehabilitation and nursing to 100 patients and residents.

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) help patients with activities of daily living and other healthcare needs under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse.

Thomas describes how he helps residents to bathe, get dressed, and go about their day. However, that’s really just the beginning of his work. He recognizes that his job is about more than just the physical act of caring for a patient or resident. It is about companionship and compassion.

“During the pandemic, the residents couldn’t see their families. Even in regular times, there are residents that don’t have family members to visit them. I’m going into their room, their home, and forming a connection with them,” says Thomas. “That personal connection, that conversation - it’s so important for residents to know that someone cares.”

Thomas has been a CNA for 7 years now, the last year with Allied Services. He says he enjoys the family-oriented atmosphere and feels truly appreciated as a member of the team. He’s excited about the future and the possibility of continuing his education and career in nursing. He recently learned about the partnership between Allied Services and Lackawanna College, and about other tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance programs at Allied Services that he can take advantage of.

Job Opportunities

CNAs at Meade Street Skilled Nursing earn up to $3,000 sign-on bonus, competitive rates, and shift differentials. Allied Services employees also enjoy great benefits, on-the-job training, and very generous tuition assistance/tuition reimbursement programs. In fact, you can attend college at no cost while working at Allied Services. Call 570.348.1455 to discuss jobs at Meade Street Skilled Nursing.

• CNA, Meade Street Skilled Nursing (PT, Days)
• CNA, Meade Street Skilled Nursing (FT, Days)
• CNA, Meade Street Skilled Nursing (PT, Nights)
• CNA, Meade Street Skilled Nursing (FT, Evenings)
• CNA, Meade Street Skilled Nursing (Call-In, All Shifts)
• Learn about employee benefits and perks

Allied Services offers competitive pay rates commensurate with experience plus shift differential, excellent benefits package, preceptor-led orientation! Allied Services Human Resources Department, 100 Abington Exec. Park, Clarks Summit PA 18411. Call us today at 1-800-368-3910. Allied Services is an equal opportunity employer for people with disabilities. Bilingual individuals are encouraged to apply.