Amid nationwide staffing shortages, a CT woman’s decision to add skills could be an idea that catches on

Douglas Hook

Heidi Coughlin, a certified nursing assistant and driver at the Orchards at Southington, checks the morning schedule for dropoffs and pickups. (Douglas Hook / Hartford Courant)

Douglas Hook

Heidi Coughlin, a certified nursing assistant and driver at the Orchards at Southington, assists a resident on a trip to Stop & Shop. (Douglas Hook / Hartford Courant)

Douglas Hook

Heidi Coughlin, a driver at the Orchards at Southington, became a certified nursing assistant so she could also help elderly residents. She enrolled in a six-week CNA certification program, passing the exam with a near-perfect score. (Douglas Hook / Hartford Courant)

Douglas Hook

Heidi Coughlin, a certified nursing assistant and driver at the Orchards at Southington, helps Ursula Wright outside Stop & Shop in Southington. (Douglas Hook / Hartford Courant)

Douglas Hook

Heidi Coughlin, a certified nursing assistant and driver at the Orchards at Southington, drives Ursula Wright, left, and other residents to Stop & Shop in Southington. (Douglas Hook / Hartford Courant)

Douglas Hook

Heidi Coughlin, a certified nursing assistant and driver at the Orchards at Southington, receives a request from resident Barbara Weaver to drive her to the pharmacy. (Douglas Hook / Hartford Courant)