WHY PURSUE CNA CERTIFICATION
Who is a Nurse Aide?
A nurse aide, also known as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or nursing assistant, is a healthcare professional who provides basic care and assistance to patients under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). Nurse aides typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other healthcare settings.
Their responsibilities may include helping patients with activities of daily living (such as bathing, dressing, and eating), taking vital signs, assisting with mobility, and providing emotional support to patients. Nurse aides play a crucial role in the healthcare team by ensuring that patients receive proper care and attention. To become a nurse aide, individuals usually need to complete a state-approved training program and pass a competency exam to obtain certification. The specific requirements for certification can vary by region or country.
If you're looking at a career in nursing, being a Certified Nurse Aide is a great way to reach your goal.
Being a CNA exposes you to many members of the health care team like nurses, physical and occupational therapists, doctors, med techs, and physician assistants. You'll soon know whether you have what it takes to further yourself in nursing after receiving these experiences.
Being a nurse aide can change your life, and you get an opportunity to impact the lives of others.
What does a Certified Nurse Aide/Nursing Assistant do?
Nurse aides provide basic care and help with activities of daily living:
Clean and bathe patients
Help patients use the toilet and assist in dressing
Turn, reposition, and transfer patients between beds and wheelchairs
Listen to and record patients' health concerns and report that information to nurses
Measure patients' vital signs, such as blood pressure and temperature
Serve meals and help patients eat
Where can a Certified Nurse Aide work?
A Certified Nurse Aide can work under the direction of a licensed nurse, in any setting. This is per federal and state statutes, and it's to protect the public.
Potential work settings:
Nursing Homes
Home Health Care Agencies
Assisted Living Facilities
Staffing Agencies
Hospitals
Hospices
Doctor Offices/Practice Groups
Day Care Centers and Schools
Medical Clinics
Urgent Care Centers
How can being a CNA benefit you?
Job stability
Flexibility
Emotionally rewarding
Affordability
Enriching work experience
Opportunity to specialize
Growing job market
Continued Education