Certified Nursing Assistants can take advantage of great employment opportunities in the health care industry. As with nurses and many other heath care professions, there remains a shortage of Certified Nursing Assistants. Acquiring CNA certification can be accomplished in a relatively short period of time. CNA schools prepare students for an entry level position as direct patient care technicians. That simply means that it is a very “hands on” care providing position. Students who complete “both” the CNA program and pass the state examination will be certified nursing assistants.  CNA programs can be found in hospitals, community colleges and private vocational or trade schools. The common title of this health care profession can be called; nurses aide, home health aides, or patient care technicians, depending on the region.

Depending on the length of the program, the nursing assistant training program will consist of a variety of health care topics, including: medical and surgical nursing, newborn care, pharmacology, anatomy, physiology and infection control. Patient safety, personal care, phlebotomy, emergency care, and CPR and First Aid are also included. Courses are often taught by Registered Nurses (RNs). Certified Nursing Assistants generally work under the direct supervision of regular nursing staff. As skills and experience developed and routines become familiar, nursing assistants will assume more responsibility and independence in providing personal care to assigned patients. It is not always easy to work with people and different personalities. It takes patients and compassionate to be a Certified Nursing Assistant. One must enjoy working with a variety of people, enjoy providing comfort and safety, and have a good sense of humor.

Certified Nursing Assistants support patients with bathing, toiletry, dressing, meals, and exercising. CNA’s may also assist with medications, take and record vital signs in addition to care provided, and report information and concerns to medical supervisors. Certified Nursing Assistant qualifies for positions in hospitals, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, adult day health centers, and private homes. Compensation can vary depending on region, type of facility and hours. Being a CNA can be a rewarding and challenging career. It sometimes serves as a stepping stone for those desiring a career in health care. It is one of the fastest ways to gain experience in direct patient care and begin a career in health care.