What does a Certified Nursing Assistant do?
Published 4 min read
A certified nursing assistant, or CNA, is a trained medical professional who provides basic patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. CNAs typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities. Their duties may include taking vital signs, bathing and dressing patients, transferring patients to and from bed, providing meals and assisting with eating, and helping patients with basic hygiene.
Certified Nursing Assistant job duties include:
- Bathing patients
- Feeding patients
- Toileting patients
- Transferring patients
- Ambulating patients
- Turning and positioning patients in bed
- Providing skin care
- Providing mouth and hair care
- Providing shaving for male patients as needed
- Providing nail care
Certified Nursing Assistant Job Requirements
The job requirements for a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) vary by state, but most states require that CNAs complete a training program and pass a certification exam. Many states also require that CNAs have at least one year of experience working in a long-term care facility.
Certified Nursing Assistant Skills
- Patient care
- Bathing
- Toileting
- Transferring
- Positioning
- Exercising
- Measuring vital signs
- Feeding
- Collecting specimens
- Catheter care
- Communication
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How to become a Certified Nursing Assistant
There are many reasons why someone might want to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA). Maybe they have a passion for helping others and want to work in the medical field. Maybe they are looking for a stable career with good pay and benefits. Or maybe they just want to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Whatever the reason, becoming a CNA is a great way to start a rewarding career in healthcare.
Here are some steps to take if you’re interested in becoming a CNA:
1. Research what CNAs do. A CNA’s job is both challenging and rewarding. They provide basic patient care and help with activities of daily living. They also play an important role in providing emotional support to patients and their families. Be sure you understand the duties of a CNA before you commit to this career.
2. Complete an accredited CNA program. There are many different ways to become a CNA, but the most common way is to complete an accredited program. These programs typically last around 6-12 weeks and include both classroom and clinical instruction. Once you complete the program, you will be eligible to take the state-mandated certification exam.
3. Pass the certification exam. The certification exam is comprised of two parts: a written portion and a skills demonstration portion. You must pass both parts of the exam in order to become certified. Once you pass, you will be placed on the state’s Nurse Aide Registry.
4. Find employment as a CNA. After you become certified, you can begin your search for employment as a CNA. There are many different settings in which CNAs work, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. Be sure to research each type of setting before applying for jobs so that you can find the best fit for your skills and interests.
Becoming a CNA can be a great way to start a rewarding career in healthcare. With hard work and dedication, you can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
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