Gaining CNA Employment

Answer 1

While many employment fields in today’s economic crisis have taken a hit with job cuts, the health service fields are still a growing industry. Certified nursing assistants (CNA) are still very much in demand. A CNA can be found in hospitals, long-term care facilities and even in private homes. Because of the demands on the time of our nurses and doctors, the role of the CNA is of great importance.

CNA employment is very hands on and patient-care oriented. The certified nurse assistant works with the patients in a hands-on fashion more than any other part of the health care team. They are often referred to as the supervisor’s eyes and ears as they will see changes in the patient’s physical condition first.

CNA employment can be physically demanding, as they are almost constantly in contact with patients. They need to be able to establish a good rapport and communicate effectively to the patient and other caregivers. Some of the common duties of a certified nurse’s assistant include taking patients history, vital signs, and depending upon certifications, may become responsible for the patients daily care. The patient’s daily care can include bathing, feeding, assisting with daily living tasks such as grooming and more.

An experienced CNA can expect to make between 10 and 15 dollars per hour as an average, depending upon location and years of experience. However, additional certifications can increase this average. Some of the additional certifications commonly acquired by CNA’s include first aid, basic life support (BLS), and certified Home Health aide (CHHA).

How to become a CNA

The steps to become a CNA will vary from state to state. CNA employment often requires both hands-on training and classroom education. The classroom education can include: anatomy and physiology, infection control, nutrition, and how to take vitals. Classes leading to CNA employment can be taken at a community college level or done is on the job training. The Red Cross also teaches these classes. Potential candidates for CNA employment also should be prepared to take a drug screenings as part of their employment process.

Becoming a CNA can be very rewarding and is definitely a hands on occupation. Many certified nursing assistants go on to become registered nurses in the course of their careers. Once the initial training is complete the candidate will need to take the certified nursing assistant exam.