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Nursing Assistants

SOC 31-1131.00Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparation

Provide or assist with basic care or support under the direction of onsite licensed nursing staff. Perform duties such as monitoring of health status, feeding, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, or ambulation of patients in a health or nursing facility.

Context coveredLong-term care, skilled nursing, assisted living, hospital med-surg, home health, and rehabilitation settings; CNA certification through senior CNA / restorative aide roles.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting) — provide to assigned residents under a nurse's review.
  2. Vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, pulse, respiration) — measure and record accurately on stable patients.
  3. Patient transfers (bed to chair, chair to commode) — perform with proper body mechanics under a senior CNA's coaching.
  4. Infection control practices (hand hygiene, gloves, isolation precautions) — apply consistently across patient contacts.
  5. Charting and care-plan documentation — complete legibly per facility standards on each shift.
  6. Mealtime assistance and intake/output recording — perform reliably for dependent residents.
  7. Mobility support (gait belts, transfer boards, wheelchairs) — use correctly for assigned patients.
  8. Skin observations (redness, bruising, pressure points) — recognize and report to the charge nurse.
  9. Resident call lights — respond within facility-target times across an assigned hall.
  10. Behavior and orientation changes — flag to the licensed nurse rather than interpreting independently.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Multi-patient assignments — organize and prioritize across an 8-resident hallway on a routine shift.
  2. Restorative-care tasks (range-of-motion exercises, ambulation programs) — perform per the care plan independently.
  3. Common medical equipment (Hoyer lifts, oxygen concentrators, suction units) — operate safely under nurse direction.
  4. Subtle changes in resident status — recognize and escalate appropriately to the licensed nurse.
  5. End-of-life and dementia-care techniques — apply with patience and dignity on assigned residents.
  6. New CNAs on shift — orient on hall routines and resident-specific care during their first week.
  7. Family-member interactions — communicate respectfully and route clinical questions to the nurse.
  8. Hospice-eligible residents — support per the care plan with sensitivity to comfort-care goals.
  9. Charting in the electronic medical record — complete required fields without nurse follow-up.
  10. Care-plan changes — implement on a familiar resident within the same shift.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex residents (multi-comorbid, high-acuity) — assist and assess across an acute-care or specialty unit.
  2. Care-plan input and updates — contribute substantively in interdisciplinary care conferences.
  3. Senior or lead-CNA responsibilities — guide hallway teams during a shift on staffing or assignment changes.
  4. Difficult family conversations — handle initial responses on common concerns and route to the nurse.
  5. Resident-rights and dignity issues — identify and report through the facility's grievance process.
  6. Quality measures (pressure ulcers, falls, weight loss) — recognize trends and surface to nursing leadership.
  7. New-grad CNAs and aides — mentor formally during 2–4 week orientations.
  8. Equipment troubleshooting (failed lifts, oxygen alarms) — handle in real time without delaying patient care.
  9. Specialty-area certifications (restorative aide, medication aide, dementia care) — maintain and apply within scope.
  10. Cross-shift handoffs and resident-status reports — deliver to incoming staff with clarity and completeness.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Hallway or unit leadership — coordinate CNA staffing, breaks, and assignments across a shift.
  2. Restorative-care program — design and audit on a unit in partnership with rehab and nursing.
  3. New-hire CNA training — own the floor-portion of orientation across the facility.
  4. Quality-improvement projects (pressure-ulcer reduction, falls prevention) — lead with administration support.
  5. Survey readiness (state, CMS) — prepare the unit and represent staff during walkthroughs.
  6. Resident-family councils — represent CNA staff in joint meetings with leadership and family advocates.
  7. Career-pathway coaching (LPN, RN bridge programs) — mentor staff who want to advance.
  8. Facility-wide programs (dementia care, restorative aide, palliative care) — coordinate with nursing and rehab leadership.
  9. Regulatory readiness on care-plan documentation — own across a unit during survey cycles.
  10. Senior advocate for CNA-staff voice — represent on committees and in leadership-level conversations.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. Basic AI documentation prompting — uses AI-assisted tools to look up standard care protocols or patient intake checklists, cross-referencing printed unit guidelines before acting Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Intake and output logging support — enters measured fluid and dietary data into AI-enabled charting systems, then flags discrepancies identified by the tool to nursing staff for clinical review Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Patient-need triage assistance — consults AI-powered call-system summaries to prioritize which room signals to answer first, while applying direct observation to override any automated ranking Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Vital-signs monitoring delegation — routes routine numeric vital-sign readings through AI-assisted monitoring dashboards, personally verifying any threshold alerts before escalating to a licensed nurse Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Care documentation accuracy — dictates patient status notes into AI transcription tools after hands-on assessments, then reviews and corrects the generated text for clinical precision before submission Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Activity-of-daily-living coordination — uses AI scheduling tools to sequence repositioning, ambulation, and hygiene tasks across a multi-patient assignment, retaining human judgment for patients with complex mobility needs Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Deterioration-pattern recognition — interprets AI-generated trend alerts derived from serial intake/output and mobility logs, synthesizing that data with direct patient observation to produce timely, evidence-based escalation reports for nursing staff Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Human-technology workflow design — leads unit-level adoption of AI charting and monitoring tools by training peer nursing assistants on correct data entry and alert-response protocols, ensuring the technology augments rather than displaces bedside perceptual skills WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 21
Augment share: 2.1%
Time saved: 92%
AI autonomy: 3.24
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Service Orientation
Score: 57.3 / 100
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication8 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient call response — answers call signals, bells, and intercom systems to identify basic patient needs in a supervised unit setting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Symptom reporting — relays observed patient complaints or physical changes to the nursing team using basic descriptive language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Intake documentation — records food and liquid intake and urinary and fecal output accurately and communicates changes to nursing staff with appropriate terminology Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Dietary communication — reviews and verbally confirms patient dietary restrictions, food allergies, and preferences with patients and care team members before meal service Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Behavioral observation reporting — documents patient behavior, physical symptoms, and complaints clearly in written records and delivers verbal updates to nurses during shift handoffs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient instruction delivery — explains daily living activity support steps to patients, including ambulation, dressing, and toileting, using plain language calibrated to patient comprehension level Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-team communication leadership — models precise, timely reporting practices for new nursing assistants and serves as a communication liaison between patients and nursing staff during high-census periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Family and patient advocacy communication — facilitates clear two-way dialogue between patients, families, and the care team by translating clinical observations into accessible information Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Peer orientation support — assists newly assigned nursing assistants in locating supplies and understanding unit routines under direct supervision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Self-initiated task completion — takes responsibility for assigned patient care tasks without waiting for repeated prompting during standard shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Care prioritization — organizes personal patient care workload across multiple residents, making sequencing decisions based on urgency and patient condition Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability modeling — acknowledges and corrects own documentation or care errors promptly and communicates corrections to supervising nurses Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Shift task coordination — coordinates patient care activities among certified nursing assistant peers during a shift to ensure all assigned residents receive timely repositioning, feeding assistance, and hygiene support Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Junior staff mentoring — guides less experienced nursing assistants through proper patient transfer and repositioning techniques, reinforcing safe handling protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Unit process improvement leadership — identifies recurring workflow inefficiencies on the unit and proposes structured care delivery adjustments to charge nurses for formal review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Crisis response initiative — assumes calm, directive communication and task delegation among peers when a patient deteriorates or a safety incident occurs before the charge nurse arrives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill gap identification — recognizes personal limitations in performing patient transfers or clinical observations and requests supervisory guidance before proceeding independently Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Task reflection — reviews completed care documentation at end of shift to identify omissions or inaccuracies before submission Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Learning strategy application — uses return-demonstration practice and peer feedback to refine repositioning and ambulation assistance techniques after initial training Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Error pattern recognition — identifies recurring mistakes in output measurement recording and adjusts personal documentation habits to improve accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Self-monitoring during care — monitors own emotional and cognitive state during high-demand patient care interactions and adjusts approach when fatigue or distraction risks patient safety Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance self-evaluation — compares personal care delivery against unit protocols and nursing feedback to set targeted skill development goals each evaluation cycle Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Reflective practice modeling — articulates a structured self-review process to peers after complex patient care situations, demonstrating how personal reflection improves care quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Adaptive learning integration — proactively seeks out continuing education on patient conditions encountered on the unit and connects new clinical knowledge to daily care adjustments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking8 statements
Emerging
  1. Change recognition — notices visible changes in a patient's physical condition, such as skin color, swelling, or unusual behavior, and reports observations to a supervising nurse Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Dietary rule application — reviews a patient's dietary restriction list before serving meals to determine whether the provided food is appropriate Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Symptom prioritization — distinguishes between routine patient complaints and symptoms warranting immediate nursing escalation based on observation of pattern changes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Intake anomaly analysis — evaluates recorded fluid intake and output data for significant deviations from a patient's baseline and flags discrepancies for nursing review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Safety risk assessment — evaluates a patient's mobility, alertness, and environmental conditions before initiating transfers or ambulation assistance to reduce fall or injury risk Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Care plan adherence evaluation — cross-references care plan instructions against a patient's current condition to determine whether assigned tasks remain appropriate or require nursing reassessment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Complex observation synthesis — integrates multiple simultaneous patient indicators, including behavioral changes, vital signs trends, and intake output data, to construct a coherent clinical picture for nursing handoff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Protocol gap identification — identifies situations where existing unit protocols do not adequately address a patient's care needs and presents evidence-based observations to nursing leadership for protocol review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Care team participation — works alongside nurses and therapists during patient care activities such as repositioning and ambulation, following assigned role instructions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shift handoff contribution — provides outgoing nursing assistant with accurate verbal summary of each assigned patient's status, needs, and completed care tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Interdisciplinary coordination — coordinates timing of patient hygiene, feeding, and mobility assistance around therapy, nursing procedures, and physician visits to minimize care disruptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict navigation — resolves minor disagreements with peers over task assignments or patient care approaches by communicating directly and deferring to charge nurse guidance when needed Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Shared patient load management — collaborates with unit peers to redistribute care tasks equitably when staffing fluctuates, ensuring no patient's needs are delayed Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Family and visitor integration — works cooperatively with patient family members during visits, including them in mealtime support and activity assistance in a structured, respectful manner Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-discipline care collaboration — actively participates in care conferences and team huddles alongside nurses, social workers, and therapists, contributing direct-care observations that inform patient care planning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Collaborative culture building — fosters a unit team environment where nursing assistants routinely support one another, share knowledge, and communicate openly about patient status changes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient dignity maintenance — treats all patients with respect during personal care tasks including bathing, dressing, and toileting regardless of patient behavior or condition Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest reporting — accurately documents patient observations and care delivery without omitting errors or falsifying records Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Confidentiality adherence — maintains patient privacy by discussing patient information only with authorized care team members and in appropriate settings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability ownership — acknowledges when a care task was completed incorrectly or missed and takes corrective action without being prompted by supervision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical boundary maintenance — consistently declines requests from patients or families that conflict with care plan instructions or facility policy and explains the reasoning respectfully Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional conduct under pressure — maintains respectful, composed interactions with agitated or difficult patients and redirects situations without retaliatory or dismissive responses Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical advocacy — raises patient safety or dignity concerns through appropriate channels when witnessing care practices that fall below professional or regulatory standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Integrity role modeling — demonstrates consistent ethical behavior across all care situations and mentors peers in maintaining professional standards even when unobserved Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Comfort adaptation — adjusts positioning aids, pillows, or blankets in improvised configurations to improve bedridden patient comfort within safe care parameters Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Communication workaround — develops simple nonverbal or visual cues to communicate with patients who have speech or language limitations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Engagement strategy development — creates informal activity-based interactions during daily care routines to maintain patient alertness and emotional engagement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Dietary preference problem-solving — identifies alternative food presentation or temperature adjustments to encourage intake in patients who consistently refuse meals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Individualized care adaptation — modifies standard assist techniques for daily living activities to accommodate a specific patient's physical limitations, preferences, or behavioral patterns within approved protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Motivational technique application — develops personalized verbal encouragement approaches for individual patients to improve participation in exercise and mobility routines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Care process innovation — designs improved workflows or patient interaction scripts for common care challenges and presents them to nursing leadership as unit-wide adoption candidates Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient-centered experience design — creates structured sensory or routine-based environmental modifications that demonstrably improve patient cooperation and well-being during care delivery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — accepts corrective feedback from nurses and supervisors on care technique or documentation without defensiveness and applies corrections in subsequent tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill development effort — practices newly learned patient handling and transfer techniques repeatedly until competency benchmarks are met Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Challenge engagement — volunteers for care assignments involving patients with complex behavioral or physical needs as a deliberate learning opportunity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback processing — reflects on a patient care error, identifies contributing factors, and implements a personal corrective strategy for future similar situations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Continuing competency pursuit — seeks out unit in-services, online modules, and cross-training opportunities to expand clinical knowledge and care skills beyond minimum requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance feedback integration — systematically incorporates nurse and supervisor evaluations into a personal development plan with specific care skill improvement targets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture promotion — encourages peers to view challenging patient assignments and care errors as development opportunities and shares personal growth strategies within the team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mastery orientation modeling — consistently demonstrates advanced skill progression across repositioning, documentation, and patient communication domains and publicly attributes outcomes to deliberate practice and learning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Attentive patient monitoring — maintains focused observation of assigned patients during care tasks, noticing behavioral or physical changes without distraction from competing unit activity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional state awareness — recognizes personal frustration or fatigue during difficult patient interactions and pauses to compose response before continuing care Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Intentional call response — responds to patient call signals with full attention and calm presence, resisting the urge to rush through assessments during high-demand shift periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Distraction management — implements personal strategies to maintain documentation accuracy and care sequencing focus during busy, high-noise unit environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Regulated patient interaction — maintains emotional composure and therapeutic presence during care interactions with cognitively impaired, combative, or end-of-life patients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Present-moment care delivery — provides feeding, hygiene, and mobility assistance with full attentiveness to each patient's real-time physical and emotional cues rather than routine-driven inattention Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindful care culture contribution — models and encourages attentive, present-centered care practices among peers and demonstrates how mindfulness reduces patient safety incidents on the unit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress regulation under sustained load — maintains consistent attentiveness and emotional regulation across a full shift of high-volume patient care, including during staffing shortages or multiple simultaneous needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical demand persistence — completes full shift responsibilities including repeated repositioning, transfers, and ambulation assistance despite physical fatigue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Difficult situation endurance — remains present and task-focused when caring for patients experiencing pain, distress, or end-of-life decline without withdrawing from required care duties Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Emotional resilience maintenance — processes the emotional weight of patient loss or deterioration through appropriate support channels and returns to full care engagement in subsequent shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Workload pressure management — sustains care quality and documentation accuracy during high-census periods or understaffed shifts without compromising patient safety standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained adversity performance — delivers consistent, patient-centered care across extended periods of organizational stress, staff turnover, or unit-wide crisis without reduced performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courage in escalation — reports unsafe patient conditions, medication errors, or colleague misconduct to supervising nurses despite potential interpersonal discomfort or peer pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Resilience role modeling — openly shares strategies for sustaining motivation and care quality during difficult unit conditions and actively supports peers experiencing burnout or compassion fatigue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Sustained mission commitment — maintains professional care standards and ethical practice consistently across years of high-demand direct patient care work, serving as a benchmark of occupational fortitude for the unit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Birth Attendant · Certified Medication Aide (CMA) · Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) · Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) · Certified Nurses Aide (CNA) · Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) · Certified Nursing Attendant (CNA) · Certified Residential Medication Aide (CRMA) · Clinical Assistant · Competency Evaluated Nurse Aide (CENA) · First Aid Attendant · Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA)
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Service OrientationSocial PerceptivenessActive ListeningMonitoringCritical ThinkingCoordinationReading ComprehensionSpeaking
Knowledge domains
Customer and Personal ServiceAdministration and ManagementEnglish LanguagePublic Safety and SecurityMedicine and DentistryEducation and TrainingTherapy and Counseling
Abilities
Problem SensitivityOral ComprehensionNear VisionOral ExpressionSpeech RecognitionStatic StrengthWritten ComprehensionWritten ExpressionDeductive ReasoningInformation Ordering
Work styles
EmpathyCooperationDependabilityOptimismAttention to DetailIntegrity
Technology
Business intelligence and data analysis softwareBilling and invoicing softwareMedical softwareVideo conferencing softwareData base user interface and query softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareElectronic mail softwareWord processing softwareInternet browser software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Turn or reposition bedridden patients.
  2. Answer patient call signals, signal lights, bells, or intercom systems to determine patients' needs.
  3. Feed patients or assist patients to eat or drink.
  4. Measure and record food and liquid intake or urinary and fecal output, reporting changes to medical or nursing staff.
  5. Provide physical support to assist patients to perform daily living activities, such as getting out of bed, bathing, dressing, using the toilet, standing, walking, or exercising.
  6. Document or otherwise report observations of patient behavior, complaints, or physical symptoms to nurses.
  7. Remind patients to take medications or nutritional supplements.
  8. Review patients' dietary restrictions, food allergies, and preferences to ensure patient receives appropriate diet.
CIP education codes
51.260151.390251.3999

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.