What does a Certified Nurse Assistant do?
Published 3 min read
A certified nurse assistant provides basic patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. Duties include taking vital signs, bathing and feeding patients, and providing emotional support.
Certified Nurse Assistant job duties include:
- Assist patients with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, and transferring
- Measure and record patients' vital signs, such as height, weight, blood pressure, temperature, and pulse
- Help patients ambulate (walk)
- Serve meals and help patients eat
- Collect specimens for testing
- Perform basic nursing tasks, such as applying bandages and changing dressings
- Help maintain a clean and safe patient environment
- Transport patients to other areas of the facility, such as the bathroom or x-ray department
- Document patient care activities in medical records
- Keep family members updated on the patient's condition
Certified Nurse Assistant Job Requirements
Most certified nurse assistants have at least a high school diploma, although some have completed postsecondary education, and must complete a brief period of on-the-job training. Many states also require certification, which involves completing a training program and passing a written exam. Some states have additional requirements, such as passing a criminal background check. Although experience is not always required, it may be helpful in landing a job.
Certified Nurse Assistant Skills
- Assisting patients with activities of daily living
- Taking and recording vital signs
- Transferring patients
- Turning and positioning patients in bed
- Providing skin care
- Assisting with ambulation
- Toileting assistance
- Catheter care
- Mealtime assistance
- Providing emotional support to patients and families
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How to become a Certified Nurse Assistant
A certified nurse assistant (CNA) provides basic patient care under the direction of a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN). CNAs typically work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, or home health agencies. They help patients with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, eating, and using the restroom. They also take vital signs, such as blood pressure and temperature, and report any changes to the RN or LPN.
To become a CNA, you must complete an accredited training program and pass a competency exam. Many states also require you to be listed on the state Nurse Aide Registry. Once you have met all the requirements, you will receive your CNA certification.
The first step to becoming a CNA is to find an accredited training program. There are many options available, including online programs. Once you have found a program that meets your needs, you will need to complete the training and pass a competency exam. After you have successfully completed the training and passed the exam, you will be eligible to apply for your CNA certification.
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