What does a Nursing Assistant do?
Published 3 min read
A nursing assistant is a person who helps provide basic patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. Duties may include taking vital signs, assisting with patient meals, and providing emotional support.
Nursing Assistant job duties include:
- Provide basic patient care under direction of nursing staff
- Utilize basic knowledge of medical terminology
- Monitor and report changes in patient vital signs
- Assist with patient ambulation and exercise
- Provide for personal care of patients, including bathing, grooming, and mouth care
- Collect urine and stool specimens
- Position patients for comfort and to prevent bedsores
- Turn or reposition bedridden patients to prevent pressure sores
- Help patients with limited mobility to perform exercises or turn them to avoid bedsores
Nursing Assistant Job Requirements
There are a few requirements for the job of a Nursing Assistant. Firstly, education-wise, one must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Secondly, certification from an accredited program is required. Lastly, some states may require experience working in a long-term care facility.
Nursing Assistant Skills
- Patient care
- Vital signs
- Injections
- Phlebotomy
- EKG
- Medication administration
- Patient education
- Charting
- Wound care
- Assisting with exams and procedures
- Specimen collection
Related: Top Nursing Assistant Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Nursing Assistant
There are many ways to become a nursing assistant. One way is to take a certified nurse assistant (CNA) training program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges, technical schools, and some hospitals. The length of the program varies, but most last between four and twelve weeks. Once you have completed a CNA training program, you must then pass a state-approved certification exam.
Another way to become a nursing assistant is to have on-the-job training. Many nursing homes and long-term care facilities offer on-the-job training for those interested in becoming a nursing assistant. The length of on-the-job training programs can vary, but most last between four and eight weeks. Once you have completed an on-the-job training program, you must then pass a state-approved certification exam.
Once you have passed the certification exam, you will be placed on the state nurse aide registry. This registry is maintained by the state in which you live and work. Nursing assistants who are listed on the registry are considered to be qualified to work in any long-term care facility or nursing home in that state.
If you are interested in becoming a nursing assistant, there are many resources available to help you get started. Contact your local community college or technical school to find out about CNA training programs in your area. Or, contact your local long-term care facility or nursing home to inquire about on-the-job training opportunities.
Related: Nursing Assistant Resume Example
Related: Nursing Assistant Interview Questions (With Example Answers)