If you’re considering a career in healthcare, you may be wondering what exactly a certified nursing assistant (CNA) is and what role they play in the larger field of health and medicine. CNAs are a vital part of the healthcare team, providing basic patient care and performing routine tasks under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of what CNAs do, what the requirements are for becoming a CNA, and what kind of career options are available to CNAs.
What Does a CNA Do?
The primary responsibility of a CNA is to provide basic patient care. This can include bathing and dressing patients, taking vital signs, and assisting patients with eating, using the restroom, or simply walking. CNAs also perform routine tasks such as keeping patients’ rooms clean and orderly and ensuring that bed linens are fresh and clean. In some cases, CNAs may also be responsible for transporting patients to different areas of the hospital or nursing home.
CNAs typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. They may also work in outpatient clinics or doctor’s offices.
Career Options for CNAs
CNAs typically work full-time hours, although some may work part-time or per diem. Many CNAs choose to work nights or weekends to have more flexibility during the week for family or personal commitments.
There are many career options available to CNAs. Some choose to stay in entry-level positions while others use their experience as a stepping stone to further their education and pursue advanced nursing degrees. With additional education and training, CNAs can become licensed practical nurses or registered nurses. Some even go on to become nurse educators or nurse managers.
The CNA is an important part of the healthcare team who provides basic patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. In order to become a CNA, you must complete an accredited training program and pass a state-administered certification exam (see below). There are many career options available to CNAs, including working in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, outpatient clinics, or doctor’s offices. With additional education and training, CNAs can even become licensed practical nurses or registered nurses.
Becoming a CNA
To become a CNA, you must complete an accredited training program and pass a state-administered certification exam. The training program will teach you the skills you need to perform your duties as a CNA, and the certification exam will test your knowledge of these skills. Once you have passed the exam, you will be placed on your state’s nurse aide registry.
Dalrada Career Institute (DCI) has been the leading provider of Medical Assistant programs including CNA and HHA training throughout San Diego County since 2006. We are the first nursing school to offer the fast-track 22-day CNA Certification Program. At DCI, we also offer CNA scholarships, work scholarships, and tuition assistance to help our students secure a future as a CNA.
With more than 8,500 student graduates and counting, we encourage you to contact us today to jumpstart your career as a CNA.
Learn more about the services and scholarships DCI has to offer by clicking here.
