What is a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)?
A certified nurse aide (CNA) provides hands-on daily care to patients or residents in hospitals, care homes, or assisted living facilities. They help with tasks like bathing, meals, mobility, and medication prep under the supervision of a licensed nurse.
About the Course
Meet Vailima Mateaki, a certified nurse aide at Mānoa Cottage who cares for residents living with Alzheimer's and dementia. Originally from Tonga and raised in Hawaiʻi, Vailima found her way into healthcare through a high school Capstone class and the encouragement of a teacher who saw something in her. As a CNA, her days are filled with getting residents ready for the morning, carefully prepping medications, supporting residents through difficult moments, and showing up for her teammates across 12-hour shifts. This profession is built on patience, compassion, and teamwork. For many, it's the most meaningful first step into a healthcare career.
A Special Mahalo to the Healthcare Association of Hawaiʻi
Their generous sponsorship has been pivotal in the creation and development of this course. We are immensely thankful for the Healthcare Association of Hawaiʻi's role in this endeavor and are excited to present this collaborative effort.