CNA Programs

What are common CNA Programs: Hospices, hospitals, prisons, and other care services all employ certified nurse assistants carrying out a variety of responsibilities. CNAs most notably check vitals and fluid and food ingestion and output, move patients, do admission and discharge checks, supply basic assistance with hygiene, along with other duties. All responsibilities are carried out under the direction of a qualified doctor, registered nurse or LPN.

Features

The typical CNA programs last only a few months. These programs are usually obtainable at community colleges and other institutions of higher education, adult schools and occupational centers. Basic physiology and anatomy, disease control, the workings of the human body, speaking and writing skills, measuring vitals, safe transportation of patients, basic first aid, record keeping, basic grooming and hygiene are some of the components of the course of study. Prior to admittance to the program, you must have a high school diploma or a GED.

CNA programs in the US must offer seventy-five hours of tuition, including a practical element. Candidates must complete sixteen hours of organized clinical instruction in a long-term care facility or hospital. They must also complete twelve hours of refresher courses annually to keep their qualifications up to date. A suitable certification in CPR is mandatory at all times.

CNA's are also required to do annual physical exams and have updated vaccinations, and they must test negative for tuberculosis. In short, a CNA must be in good physical health. Fingerprint samples and criminal background check are also required.

Considerations

Once the CNA programs are completed, nurse assistants make an income of around $23,000 each year, according to the Department of Labor, and can anticipate employment growth "much faster than average for all occupations through 2016."

Potential

Even after completing the CNA programs, nursing assistants have only a slight chance of growth without added education. A lot of CNA's make the decision to carry on with their training, since the position gives preliminary experience in the field of nursing. Most of them choose to sign up with an approved vocational or registered nursing program. If you’re a high school student and you want to start your career as a nurse assistant you should take courses in biology, algebra, health, nutrition, chemistry and computer literacy.

Warning

Since it entails long hours on your feet, working as a nurse assistant is actually very difficult. In addition there is considerable risk of injuring your back by lifting, moving, turning and positioning patients. The tasks of emptying bedpans, changing dirty or wet linen, frequently coping with aggressive, confused patients, and giving incontinent care can also make the job rather unpleasant.

There is a higher possibility of becoming infected with hepatitis and other diseases, as nurse assistants are particularly exposed to microorganisms and viruses, so special precautions must be taken for these dangers.