What to Expect As a Certified Nursing Assistant

A certified nursing assistant works under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse or a doctor. Their primary duty is to provide hands-on care to the patients in a variety of health care settings.

If you’re interested in becoming a CNA, here is a list of some of the things that you are expected to do during your time in the hospital.

•    Certified nursing assistants help patients with taking care of themselves like grooming, bathing, and dressing.
•    They monitor the patient’s vital signs, oral care, infection control and etc.
•    Serving food and helping them eat.
•    Keeping the patients room hygienic
•    Assisting the patient in doing their motion exercise
•    Giving update about the patients status
•    Helping in some medical procedures
•    Medical terminology
•    Medical unit surrounding and safety
•    Performs CPR
•    Communication and documentations

Certified Nursing Assistant Certification

The work of a certified nursing assistant can guarantee the beginning of a career in nursing.  CNAs are involved in caring for patient and they are the ones who make sure that the patients’ needs are met. To become a certified nursing assistant, one must have at least a high school diploma. They have to complete a six to twelve week certificate program at their local college or medical facility and they must complete course classroom activities.  The activities are comprised primarily of basic skill training in nursing, nutrition, infection control, as well as physiology and anatomy. Clinical work always includes hands-on experience and every CNA must complete certification exams. When the applicants pass the exam they are then qualified certified nursing assistants.

Places of employment

Certified nursing assistants are not confined to working in hospitals. They can work in nursing homes, taking care of elderly patients, Home Health Care Agencies, Assisted Living Facilities, Hospices, Doctors Offices, Urgent Care Centers, Medical Clinics, Day Care Centers and Schools.

Being a Certified Nursing Assistant can be very stressful and tiring.  It can also be very back breaking at times. The job is time-consuming, with some aids working more than eight hours on one shift. However, if you’re looking to start your nursing career by taking on a lucrative and in-demand job then you should consider becoming a certified nursing assistant. Aside from being in demand, it can also be one of the most self satisfying jobs, once you see the smile on your patient’s face.