A study on CNA wellbeing in Illinois.
We're exploring the experiences, perceptions, and needs of Certified Nursing Assistants to help improve job satisfaction and raise the standard of care.
Introduction
The United States is facing a significant aging crisis, with the population aged 65 and older rapidly increasing. This shift places immense pressure on our healthcare system and, critically, on the Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) who provide essential care in long-term facilities.
The Problem
Despite the vital role CNAs play, there is surprisingly little research into their own wellbeing, job satisfaction, and professional knowledge. High turnover rates and staffing shortages are major concerns that directly impact the quality of care provided to our seniors.
Our Study's Mission
The "Caring for the Caregivers" study aims to fill this knowledge gap. We are exploring the real-world experiences, perceptions, and needs of CNAs across Illinois. By understanding their perspectives on topics like fair compensation, workplace wellbeing, and health awareness (vaccination and antibiotic stewardship), we hope to provide data-driven insights to improve their job satisfaction, encourage more people to join this crucial profession, and ultimately raise the standard of care for residents.
Expand Research
Generate new data on CNA wellbeing in long-term care settings.
Identify Gaps
Understand CNA knowledge on antibiotic use and vaccinations.
Support the Workforce
Provide insights to improve workplace satisfaction and retention.
Improve Care Quality
Contribute to better quality of care for residents.
Target Population
Our study focuses on Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) currently employed in long-term care and skilled nursing facilities throughout the state of Illinois.
How We Are Collecting Data
We are utilizing an anonymous digital survey to gather honest and confidential insights from CNAs. The survey is designed in four key parts:
1. Demographics
Non-identifiable background information.
2. Workplace Wellbeing
Factors influencing job satisfaction and work environment.
3. Vaccination Knowledge
Attitudes and understanding regarding immunizations.
4. Antibiotic Stewardship
Knowledge of appropriate antibiotic use to prevent resistance.
Data Collection Method
We are using a convenient snowball sampling method. CNAs receive a unique QR code which links them directly to the survey. They can easily share this code with their colleagues, allowing us to reach a wide and diverse group of participants across various facilities.
Analysis & Impact
Survey responses will be carefully analyzed using data analysis techniques in Microsoft Excel to identify important patterns and trends. The key findings will be presented visually through clear graphs and charts, making the insights accessible to facility administrators, policymakers, and the wider healthcare community.
Share Your Voice and Help Shape the Future of Care!
How to Participate
Taking part is quick, easy, and completely anonymous.
The survey should take approximately 10-15 minutes.
Scan with your phone camera
OR
Your Experience Matters
If you are a Certified Nursing Assistant working in a long-term care or skilled nursing facility in Illinois, we want to hear from you. Our anonymous study gives you the chance to share your honest experiences regarding your wellbeing, workplace environment, and professional knowledge. Your input is crucial for expanding the limited research on the CNA profession and helping improve job satisfaction for you and your colleagues.
Incentives
As a thank you for your valuable time and insights, participants who complete the survey will be eligible to receive a $50 gift card. (Details on how incentives will be distributed).
Confidentiality
Your responses are completely anonymous. We do not collect any identifying information. The data is used strictly for research purposes and reported in aggregate form only.
We welcome your questions, feedback, and inquiries about the "Caring for the Caregivers" research study. Please send us an email, and our team will get back to you within 2–3 business days.
Send Us a Message
Your message will be received directly by the project leads, Reya Mahajan and Gian Mahajan.
We are committed to sharing the valuable insights generated by this study with the healthcare community, facility administrators, and policymakers to drive positive change.
Findings Coming Soon
Our study is currently in the data collection phase. We look forward to analyzing the results and sharing our findings here as they are published and presented.
Please check back later!
