July 26, 2018
Just a C.N.A?
Often we hear a nursing assistant described as just a CNA.
There is no such thing as “just a CNA.” A Certified Nursing Assistant plays a very important role in the lives of many US Citizens every day. It takes a very special person to do the work this career requires.
The Schmieding program was founded by someone who recognized that there were not enough trained caregivers who were worthy of this role. He was looking for skilled aides to help with his own family members who could no longer care for themselves. Mr. Lawrence Schmieding’s desire was to create a program that would instill a specific set of core values in its graduates so that their care-recipients would receive quality care above and beyond the norm. It was his plan to provide a special curriculum to achieve these goals.
The Schmieding method was derived from the belief that people deserved the right to have access to certified, competent and compassionate caregivers, especially those who wish to remain in their own home. The vision included for family caregivers to find quality education and support to care for their own relatives at home.
The set of core values of the Schmieding method include three S’s
Skills – possession of knowledge and skills to make informed care decisions for senior adults
Standards – criteria necessary to measure and ensure caregiving competency
Sensitivity – characteristics of compassion, empathy, caring, integrity, respect, advocacy and responsibility instilled in students throughout the training program.
Most CNA programs are focused mainly on basic skills. We take it a step further by utilizing a small instructor to student ratio to achieve these goals. We also stress the importance of providing person-centered care and strive to cultivate this into the learning environment. A special focus on Alzheimer’s care is also taught above the state requirement level.
Since 2010, home care agencies, families and facilities across Arkansas have employed Schmieding graduates. It is no secret that behind every healthcare team member is a compassionate, skilled aide; many who do the jobs least appreciated, but most needed. They play an important role in the continuum of care for those in hospitals, nursing homes or their own home. They are not “just a CNA” – if they are a Schmieding Graduate, they are even more.