Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) – Job Description and Outlook

Many people are searching for a challenging career in a medical setting, so becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) may be exactly the career path you wish to take. Throw in the facts that careers in nursing are growing at an incredibly fast rate and that becoming a certified nurse’s assistant sets you up well for further careers in medicine and you have yourself a smart career path!

Job Description

The assistant works closely with patients by providing them with basic care such as feeding, bathing, dressing and grooming, and they can also check the vital signs of the patient such as blood pressure, temperature, heart rate (pulse) and respiratory rate. In addition to providing this crucial information on the condition of the patient, a CNA gives their patients important emotional and social support. Compassion and care can help lessen the stress felt by those who are sick or injured.

Training and Education

Training and education are required to become a certified nurse assistant. Nursing aide training is offered in high schools, vocational and technical centers, online schools, community colleges, the Red Cross and some nursing care facilities. Classes cover basic nursing skills, anatomy and physiology, nutrition, infection control, body mechanics and resident rights.

CNAs must pass an exam before they become qualified assistants. The Federal Government has requirements for aides working in nursing care facilities. They must successfully complete at least 75 hours of approved training, and then they can be added to the State registry of nursing aides. Other requirements vary by state, so check with your state board for more information.

Job Growth Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics that is part of the U.S. Department of Labor, the job outlook for a certified nurse assistant is very good. Most jobs are found in nursing care facilities followed by hospitals. Other job types include residential care facilities, outpatient care centers, government agencies and family services.

Employment of nursing aides is expected to grow an average of 19 percent which is faster than for all other occupations. One reason is the ever increasing population of elderly folks who will ultimately need extended nursing care. CNAs are going to be essential for elderly home care in the upcoming years.

Salary Data

The salary of a certified nurse assistant varies based on the type of facility where you work as well as the state you live in. On average, you will make $9.50 per hour up to $12.00 per hour during the first four years of employment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the lowest pay is about $8.34 per hour, usually for entry level CNAs, and the highest pay is over $15.97 an hour.

Inside Look At A Day in The Life Of A Certified Nurse Assistant

Check out this career overview video of what it’s like being a CNA. It gives behind the scenes look at a true working environment. You’ll see both the pros and cons of the job. As you can see it can be tough work but it can also be incredibly rewarding. The video also talks about how becoming a CNA can be a starting point for further careers in health care.