If you consider yourself to be patient and compassionate person who enjoys working with all kinds of people, then a career as a Nurse’s Assistant may be right for you. Students interested in a career in health care and the opportunities found within the health care system can begin their studies at Nursing Assistant Schools. Because of the shortage of qualified and well educated Nursing Assistants, the decision to enter into an educational program for a Nurse’s Assistant is a smart choice for those looking for steady ground and a steady career. Becoming a CNA is a great way to get an easy jump start into the medical field.

The goal of a student attending a Nursing Assistant School is to take the professional certification exam after graduation. Completing the certification exam would then make the Nursing Assistant student a Certified Nursing Assistant, or CNA. Training to become a CNA can be accomplished in a relatively short period of time and attending a nursing assistant school will prepare the student for an entry-level position as a Nurse's Aide or Nursing Assistant (NA).

Vocational schools, trade or technical schools, and community colleges offering nursing assistant courses or programs can be found across the country. Many times, the classes are taught by Registered Nurses or RN’s. Curriculum for the nursing assistant programs include classes in anatomy and physiology, medical and surgical nursing, pharmacology, newborn care, patient safety, personal care, infection control, phlebotomy, emergency care, and CPR and First Aid. This training includes lecture and hands on skills.

Entry level nursing assistants typically will begin their careers by working under the direct supervision of regular nursing staff. The patient care tasks for nursing assistants include helping patients with bathing and dressing, exercising, helping them with their meals, and administering medications. Other tasks include recording a patient’s vital signs and all care administered, and documenting and reporting any additional information and concerns to medical supervisors.

This profession falls under many different titles which often vary by the region you work in. Some of these titles include: Nursing Assistant, Nurse's Aide, Home Health Aide, Patient Care Technician, and Personal Care Assistant. Certified Nursing Assistants can work in many different medical setting. A CNA may work in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, private homes, adult day health centers, and hospitals. Entry-level Nursing Assistants can expect to earn about $23,000 annually. Of course, salaries can range widely for nursing assistants depending on education, years of experience and the region of the County you plan to work.