Rhoda's Story
Rhoda Waldner has been working as a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) at Avera McKennan for the last 12 years. She says the best part about her job is that she not only gets to take care of residents but that she also gets to know them and their families. She loves making them smile and laugh, and helping them have a comfortable stay. "This is their home away from home," she says.
An average day at work for Rhoda includes helping residents shower, clip their nails, do their hair, making sure they get breakfast and lunch, and getting whatever medications they need. "Sometimes," she says, "I'm just there to listen."
"This is the most rewarding job," she continues. "You give so much back to the residents and you learn so much from them. When I leave my shift at the end of the day, I know I made somebody smile or even changed somebody's life in a positive way."
Rhoda recalls a patient experience, "We had resident from Alaska, and his wife spent her nights in Brandon. She didn't have transportation back and forth so I picked her up every morning so she could be with her husband during the day and brought her home after my shift was over. I did that for six weeks--everyday. It was a pleasure doing it, because I met an awesome lady and to this day I still talk to her and send cards!"
Rhoda says she would encourage anyone to consider becoming a CNA at Avera McKennan. "I love what I'm doing. I love my residents and co-workers; they mean the world to me," she says. "Plus, I work for the best health care system in the world!"
Begin the process to join our team by calling 605-322-7850 or apply online today »
Qualifications
Qualifications
Applicants for this position should have the following qualifications.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Certified as a nursing assistant in the State of South Dakota required.
- If not C.N.A. certified, must obtain certification within 90 days of starting this position.
- If not Medication Aide certified, must obtain within 90 days of starting this position.
Note that other qualifications might be required based on position and experience.
Common Questions
Q: Can I shadow?
Yes. We encourage all candidates to participate in a shadow experience. This usually lasts 2 hours and the time of the shadow is flexible.
Q: How large is the Avera Prince of Peace facility?
Avera Prince of Peace is 90 bed skilled nursing facility with:
- 16 beds dedicated to the rehab program
- 4 long-term care ventilator beds
- Approximately 70 beds in long term care. On the campus is also a 32 unit assisted living and 74 independent living apartments. The Dougherty Hospice House is also on the campus.
Q: Do I need to be certified to be eligible for a position?
You do not need to be certified to be eligible for hire. Upon hire you have 90 days to complete your Certified Nursing Assistant Program. During that time you can work with another employee in the facility to start gaining experience. The certification process is all completed at Avera Prince of Peace and is paid time.
Q: How long is orientation?
Orientation for employees with no experience takes approximately 6 weeks. An employee that is certified and has experience as a CNA has an orientation time of 2 to 3 weeks.
Q: What do I do as a CNA?
As a CNA you will be trained to care for the elderly. You will be trained to provide assist with activities of daily living that a person can no longer perform without assist. These activities may include: dressing, toileting, mobility, feeding, and transferring.
Q: How flexible is the scheduling?
Scheduling is very flexible. Many of our staff are part time and a variety of shift options exist.
