Key Takeaways
- Use ABCs to prioritize: Immediate (life-threatening) → Soon (important) → Later (can wait)
- Cluster care by combining multiple tasks in one patient visit
- Prepare supplies in advance to save time
- Ask for help when overwhelmed - never cut corners on safety
- Communicate your plan and coordinate with the healthcare team
Time Management and Organization
CNAs often care for multiple patients with competing needs. Effective time management and organization ensure all patients receive timely, quality care.
The Challenge of Multiple Patients
CNAs typically care for 6-15 patients per shift, each with different needs:
| Patient Type | Typical Needs | Time Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Total care | Complete assistance with all ADLs | High - 45-60 min |
| Maximum assist | Significant help, some participation | Moderate - 30-45 min |
| Moderate assist | Help with some tasks | Moderate - 20-30 min |
| Minimum assist | Setup and supervision | Low - 10-15 min |
| Independent | Reminders only | Minimal - 5 min |
Prioritizing Patient Care
Use the ABCs of prioritization to decide which patient needs attention first:
| Priority | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| A - Immediate | Life-threatening or urgent | Breathing difficulty, chest pain, falls |
| B - Soon | Important but not critical | Pain medication due, toileting needs |
| C - Later | Can wait safely | Bed making, stocking supplies |
When two patients have equal needs, consider:
- Who has been waiting longer?
- Which task can be done more quickly?
- Can you ask a coworker for help?
Organizing Your Workday
Start of Shift:
- Get report from previous CNA
- Review your patient assignments
- Check for scheduled procedures/appointments
- Prioritize based on patient needs
- Make rounds to assess all patients
During Shift:
- Complete routine care at scheduled times
- Respond to call lights promptly
- Cluster care activities when possible
- Document as you go
- Communicate with nurses regularly
End of Shift:
- Complete all documentation
- Restock supplies
- Check patients one more time
- Give thorough report to next CNA
Time-Saving Strategies
Cluster Care: Combine multiple tasks in one visit:
- Check vital signs while assisting with toileting
- Provide oral care during morning bathing
- Change linens while repositioning patient
Prepare in Advance:
- Gather all supplies before entering room
- Set up equipment before starting procedure
- Organize cart at beginning of shift
Use Downtime Wisely:
- Stock supplies during slow periods
- Complete documentation between patients
- Prepare for next activity
Handling Interruptions
Interruptions are constant in healthcare:
| Interruption | Strategy |
|---|---|
| Call lights | Prioritize by urgency; ask for help if with another patient |
| Phone calls | Take message or find appropriate person |
| Family questions | Answer briefly or direct to nurse |
| Coworker requests | Help if possible; communicate your needs |
When You're Overwhelmed
If you can't complete all tasks safely:
- Ask for help - Talk to your nurse or charge nurse
- Prioritize safety - Focus on urgent needs first
- Communicate clearly - "I need help with Mrs. Smith"
- Document concerns - Note any care that couldn't be provided
- Don't cut corners - Safety over speed
Shift Planning Worksheet
Organize your shift using a basic template:
| Time | Patient | Task | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00 | All | Receive report | Check assignments |
| 7:30 | Room 201 | AM care, vitals | Total care patient |
| 8:30 | Room 202 | AM care | Moderate assist |
| 9:00 | Room 203 | VS only | Independent |
| 9:30 | Room 201 | Repositioning | Q2h turns |
Working with Your Team
Effective time management includes teamwork:
- Communicate your plan - Tell the nurse your schedule
- Ask for and offer help - Support your coworkers
- Coordinate with other departments - Know when PT/OT are coming
- Report promptly - Don't wait to share important information
According to the ABCs of prioritization, which patient should you see first?
What is "clustering care"?
What should you do if you cannot complete all assigned tasks safely?