With a growing demand for healthcare professionals, it’s no surprise that CNAs are in high demand. Senior living communities and home health companies are hiring them in high numbers, and they can expect competitive salaries. But what is the job of a CNA? What qualifications do you need to become one? And what options are available for career development once you’re certified? In this blog post, we explore these questions and more.
What does a CNA do?
CNAs provide basic patient care under the direction of registered nurses or other medical staff. They may help patients with their daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, eating, grooming, and walking. They also take vital signs such as temperature, heart rate, respiration rate, and blood pressure. In addition, they may help with transferring patients from beds to wheelchairs or gurneys. Depending on the facility where they work, CNAs may be responsible for documenting patient information or helping with treatments and medications.
What qualifications do I need to become a CNA?
In order to become a CNA in the United States, you must complete an approved CNA certification program. These programs will vary depending on your state; however all states require that you complete at least 75 hours of training – which includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience – as well as pass a written exam and skills test given by your state’s board of nursing or other certifying agency. Once certified, you must also maintain up-to-date CPR certification as well as any continuing education requirements set by your state board of nursing or select employer.
What options are available for career development?
Depending on where you work and what type of facility you choose to work in (hospital vs home health), there are various paths for career advancement for CNAs. For example, many hospitals have specialized roles for CNAs such as unit secretary or medication aide; while others may offer an opportunity to bridge into nursing school after gaining experience working as a CNA in long-term care facilities or other healthcare settings. Additionally, many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs which can be beneficial when pursuing higher education degrees related to healthcare such as Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Conclusion
A career in certified nursing is an excellent option if you’re looking for stable employment with good pay and opportunities for growth. Becoming a CNA requires completing an approved program that meets your state’s guidelines plus passing both written exams and skills tests administered by your state board of nursing or certifying agency. Once certified there are numerous options available from continuing education courses to specialized roles at hospitals; opening up a world of possibilities when it comes to advancing your career within the realm of healthcare services.
