A CNA plays a vital role in healthcare. Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) are the foundation on which most healthcare systems are built. CNA jobs play a crucial part in patient care. Although the job can be long hours and a lot of work, the career is rewarding.
A CNA is at a lower level in healthcare but can be used as a stepping stone to continuing your education and becoming a nurse. Below you will find out CNA roles and responsibilities. What is a certified nursing assistant? And more! It takes a special kind of person to work as a CNA. This job requires an individual with compassion, a multi-tasker, and a good work ethic.
What is a CNA?
A CNA, or certified nursing assistant, is a healthcare professional who assists patients with daily tasks under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN). CNAs work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities.
CNAs are responsible for a variety of duties, including:
What Do CNAs Do?
- Monitoring and documenting vital signs, such as blood pressure, pulse, and temperature
- Providing personal care, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming patients
- Assisting patients with mobility, including transferring them in and out of bed and helping them walk
- Providing emotional support and companionship to patients
- Performing basic nursing tasks, such as taking vital signs and assisting with medical equipment
To become a CNA, individuals must complete a state-approved training program and pass a certification exam. The requirements for becoming a CNA vary by state.
How To Become A CNA?
1. High school diploma or GED
2. Completion of a state-approved training program.
3. Complete clinical training
4. Pass the state examination competency exam.
Here is an example job description for a CNA:
Job Title: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Job Purpose:
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is responsible for providing primary patient care under the direction of the nursing staff. This position works closely with patients, families, and other healthcare team members to provide a high level of care and to ensure patient needs are met.
CNA roles and responsibilities.
- Provide primary patient care, including bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting
- Monitor and document vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, and temperature
- Assist patients with mobility, including transferring them in and out of bed and helping them walk
- Provide emotional support and companionship to patients
- Perform basic nursing tasks, such as taking vital signs and assisting with medical equipment
- Communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare team members
- Maintain a clean and organized work environment
Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Current CNA certification in the state in which the position is located
- Previous experience as a CNA is preferred
- Ability to work well in a team environment
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Physical ability to perform the duties of the position, including lifting and transferring patients
The typical roles and responsibilities of a CNA include the following:
- Providing primary patient care: This may include bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting patients. CNAs may also assist patients with mobility, such as transferring them in and out of bed or helping them walk.
- Monitoring and documenting vital signs: CNAs are responsible for taking and recording patients' vital signs, such as blood pressure, pulse, and temperature. They may also be responsible for monitoring and documenting other aspects of patients' health, such as food and fluid intake and output.
- Providing emotional support: CNAs often offer emotional support and companionship to patients, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation. They may also assist patients with activities of daily living, such as reading or watching TV.
- Performing basic nursing tasks: Depending on their training and the needs of the facility in which they work, CNAs may perform various basic nursing tasks, such as administering medications, changing dressings, and assisting with medical equipment.
- Communicating with patients and healthcare team members: CNAs are responsible for communicating effectively with patients and their families, as well as with other members of the healthcare team. This may include providing patient conditions updates, sharing patient needs and concerns, and following care plans and treatment orders.
- Maintaining a clean and organized work environment: CNAs are responsible for maintaining a clean and organized work environment, including ensuring that equipment and supplies are adequately sterilized and stored.
In What Types of Settings Do CNAs Work?
CNAs work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities, including assisted living facilities and rehabilitation centers. They may also work in home healthcare agencies, providing care to patients in their homes.
In these settings, CNAs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). They may also work with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, physical therapists, and social workers.
The hours and schedule of a CNA may vary depending on the facility where they work and the needs of the patients they care for. CNAs typically work in shifts, including days, evenings, nights, and weekends. They may work full-time or part-time, and some may be on call for emergencies or to cover shifts when other CNAs are absent.
What Is The Average CNA Salary In The United States?
The average salary for a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in the United States is around $30,000 annually. However, the actual salary can vary widely depending on several factors, including the location, the employer, experience level, and the specific duties being performed.
In general, nurses working in hospitals earn higher salaries than those working in nursing homes or other long-term care facilities. CNAs who have additional certifications or specialized skills may also be able to command higher salaries. Additionally, CNAs who work full-time or have overtime hours may earn more than those who work part-time or have fewer hours.
It's worth noting that the salary for a CNA is just one component of the total compensation package. Many employers also offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, which can add significantly to the overall value of the job.
Find CNA jobs Near Local CNA Travel Jobs Or Me:
There are several ways to find local CNA jobs. The best and most direct way to connect to CNA jobs near you is by downloading the Nursa app, verifying your license, and searching for jobs immediately. Want more information? Learn the differences between CMA vs CNA.
