A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides essential support in healthcare settings.
However, there are clear limits to a CNA’s scope of practice.
Knowing what a CNA not allowed to do ensures patient safety and legal compliance.
Tasks Outside a CNA’s Role
A CNA not allowed to do includes administering medications.
Only licensed nurses or other authorized professionals may give pills, injections, or IV drugs.
CNAs also cannot perform medical procedures like inserting catheters or starting IV lines.
They must never interpret or diagnose symptoms or lab results.
Diagnosing is strictly reserved for physicians and advanced practice providers.
A CNA not allowed to do involves changing a care plan.
Only licensed nurses or doctors can adjust treatment instructions.
CNAs follow care plans but do not create or modify them.
They also cannot accept verbal medication orders from doctors.
Such tasks require licensed personnel due to legal and safety rules.
Additionally, a CNA not allowed to do includes supervising other CNAs in a clinical decision-making role.
While experienced CNAs may guide new staff, they cannot assign clinical duties.
That responsibility belongs to registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs).
CNAs must also avoid sharing patient information casually.
They must follow HIPAA rules to protect privacy.
Breaking confidentiality is both unethical and illegal.
Understanding what a CNA not allowed to do protects patients and the CNA’s career.
Violating these rules can lead to job loss or loss of certification.
Always work within your training and state regulations.
When in doubt, ask a supervising nurse before acting.
CNAs offer vital daily care but must not cross into licensed nursing tasks.
Staying within boundaries ensures quality care and professional integrity.
Knowing what a CNA not allowed to do is as important as knowing their allowed duties.
This clarity builds trust and safety in every healthcare setting.