5 Ways to Show Appreciation for Nursing Assistants

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) are often the unsung heroes of the healthcare system. They work tirelessly to provide essential medical care, emotional support, and assistance with daily living activities for patients. From taking vital signs to creating a welcoming and comforting environment, CNAs are at the heart of patient well-being in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, and other healthcare settings.

Despite their invaluable contributions, CNAs’ hard work and dedication can sometimes go unnoticed. National CNA Week offers a unique opportunity to celebrate their unwavering commitment to patient care and show them how much their efforts are appreciated.

If you're unsure how to start, this guide highlights why CNAs deserve recognition and offers you five meaningful ways to celebrate nursing assistant appreciation during National CNA Week.

Why Certified Nursing Assistants Deserve Recognition

CNAs are essential workers who ensure that patients receive high-quality care. Whether it’s providing personal care to assist with bathing or detecting subtle changes in a patient’s condition, their contributions play a vital role in preventing complications and improving overall patient well-being.

The demands of their work include:

• Providing Direct Medical Assistance: From taking vital signs to assisting with medical procedures, CNAs are hands-on in delivering healthcare.
• Offering Emotional Support: CNAs often form personal connections with patients, providing comfort during challenging times.
• Working in Diverse Environments: Their work spans various settings, such as nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living facilities.
• Dedication Despite Challenges: With long shifts and physically demanding responsibilities, CNAs go above and beyond to prioritize patient care.

Without their tireless efforts, many aspects of our healthcare system simply wouldn’t function as effectively. National CNA Week allows healthcare facilities and communities to come together to honor these crucial contributions.

The History of National CNA Week

National CNA Week is celebrated annually to shine a spotlight on the impactful work of nursing assistants. Established as a way to generate awareness and appreciation, this special week features events organized by healthcare facilities and associations like the National Association of Health Care Assistants (NAHCA).

Each year, the celebration includes a unique theme aimed at highlighting the compassion, professionalism, and dedication of CNAs. It’s a moment for healthcare organizations to engage their teams, build morale, and recognize the invaluable role these professionals play in patient care.

5 Creative Ways to Celebrate CNA Week

To truly honor CNAs during National CNA Week, consider the following meaningful ways to show appreciation for their dedication and hard work.

1. Organize Wellness Activities

CNAs work long hours and often put others’ health and well-being before their own. Hosting wellness activities is an excellent way to give back and show you care about their physical and mental health.

• Offer chair massages and relaxation techniques.
• Host yoga or meditation sessions to promote mindfulness.
• Arrange healthy meal options or snacks for their breaks.
• Provide self-care packages with items like candles, skincare products, and herbal teas.

These activities show CNAs they deserve to recharge and feel cared for, just as they care for patients.

2. Recognize Their Contributions Publicly

Recognition goes a long way in boosting morale and making employees feel valued. Create opportunities to publicly celebrate CNAs and express gratitude for their critical role in patient care.

• Organize a recognition ceremony where CNAs can receive awards or certificates of appreciation.
• Feature individual CNAs in social media posts, celebrating their unique contributions. Use hashtags like #CNAWeek and #CelebrateCNAs to spread awareness.
• Share patient and family testimonials that highlight the impact CNAs have had on their lives.

Even small acts of public acknowledgment can make a lasting impression on your CNA team.

3. Offer Thoughtful Gifts

Everyone loves a thoughtful gift, and CNAs are no different. Consider giving practical and meaningful items to express your appreciation.

• Personalized thank-you notes or cards from patients and staff.
• Gift cards to local restaurants, coffee shops, or wellness centers.
• Branded merchandise like insulated water bottles, tote bags, or scrubs.
• Books or educational materials for personal and professional growth.

Thoughtful gestures like these demonstrate that their dedication has not gone unnoticed.

4. Invest in Continued Education

Providing CNAs with opportunities to advance their knowledge and skills can make them feel valued and supported in their career growth.

• Offer access to specialized training or certifications that expand their expertise.
• Cover expenses for workshops, webinars, or conferences related to healthcare.
• Create development programs within the organization to promote career advancement.

Empowered CNAs are more motivated, and their ongoing development benefits both the individual and the healthcare facility.

5. Build a Stronger Sense of Community

Fostering a positive and supportive environment among your CNA team helps improve morale and engagement. Use National CNA Week to strengthen this sense of unity.

• Host team-building events, such as group outings, potlucks, or trivia nights.
• Create a bulletin board where coworkers can post notes of gratitude to CNAs.
• Launch peer recognition programs to encourage coworkers to celebrate each other.

By building community, you create a culture of appreciation that extends well beyond CNA Week.

Support Nursing Assistants Year-Round

Certified nursing assistants are the backbone of our healthcare system. Their tireless commitment to providing care and comfort deserves continued recognition and appreciation. National CNA Week is a powerful reminder to express gratitude, but its message can echo throughout the year.

Whether through wellness activities, heartfelt gifts, or creating development opportunities, there are countless ways to show appreciation for CNAs. Small acts of gratitude make a big difference in creating a supportive and rewarding work environment for these essential professionals.

Want to ensure you’re celebrating your team in the best way possible? Start planning your CNA Week festivities today. Your efforts will go a long way in honoring the heroes who work at the heart of healthcare.

Ready to Elevate Your Career in Healthcare?

At Indiana Wesleyan University, we believe in equipping caregivers like you with the skills to lead, inspire, and transform healthcare. Explore our Nursing and Healthcare programs to take the next step in your professional journey. Find your way forward today!