CNA: Certified Nursing Assistant
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) provide daily living assistance and bedside care to patients under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, Enrolled Nurse, or Licensed Practical Nurse.
CNAs work closely with patients, providing basic care services like bathing, checking vital signs, feeding patients, and grooming. CNAs might also provide vital social and emotional support to patients.
CNAs are also responsible for communicating vital information on patient conditions to nurses. The CNA role can often serve as a stepping-stone toward pursuing licensure as a Registered Nurse.
Those who wish to pursue a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant should be caring, compassionate, and patient. They should also be able to stay calm under stress and know how to administer CPR.
CNAs could potentially find opportunities in a variety of settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, mental health facilities, assisted living facilities, and private homes.
Career Outlook
Due to a combination of rapid employment growth, the need for replacements for those who leave this occupation, increasing long-term care needs, and the growing elderly population, the U.S. Department of labor predicts that job opportunities for CNAs should be excellent.
Education and Other Requirements:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Successful completion of a 6-12 week CNA Certificate program*
*Time to completion is not guaranteed and will vary by level of commitment by student, class schedule, specific program, and various other factors.
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