What is a CNA? And The Job Requirements

Choosing a specialty in the nursing field can be a challenging yet exciting decision. If you’re interested in patient care and want to jump-start your nursing career, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) might be the perfect path.

A CNA plays a crucial role in the healthcare team by providing direct, hands-on care to patients in a variety of settings. CNAs work under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and are essential for ensuring patient comfort and safety.

Let’s discover what it means to be a Certified Nursing Assistant and the expectations and prospects of this rewarding role.

What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a state-certified healthcare professional who provides basic care to patients and assists them with daily activities. CNAs work in many healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation centers.

Although considered an entry-level position in healthcare, certified nursing assistant jobs offer invaluable experience, making them an excellent stepping stone for those pursuing higher-level nursing roles.

What Does a CNA Do?

Certified Nursing Assistants are responsible for a wide range of patient care tasks or “activities of daily living” (ADLs), including everything from personal hygiene to helping patients move around.

Typical CNA duties include:

Assisting patients with personal hygiene, such as bathing, grooming, and dressing
Helping patients get in and out of bed or move around their environment
Serving meals and assisting with eating when necessary
Taking and recording vital signs like blood pressure and heart rate
Monitoring patient food and medication intake
Assisting in medical procedures under the supervision of an RN or LPN
Reporting changes in a patient’s condition to the nursing staff
Offering emotional support to patients and their families

How to Become a CNA

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a rewarding career path that involves completing a state-approved training program and passing a certification exam. The process can be completed relatively quickly, making it an accessible entry point into the healthcare field.

Let’s break down the steps you need to take to start your journey as a CNA.

Education Requirements

The first step to becoming a CNA is enrolling in a state-approved CNA training program, which can be completed in as little as 4-12 weeks. These programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or through healthcare institutions like hospitals.

The curriculum typically covers essential topics such as:

Basic nursing skills
Anatomy and physiology
Patient care techniques
Safety protocols
Ethical considerations in healthcare

In addition to classroom instruction, many CNA programs include hands-on clinical training. This practical experience helps prepare you to work directly with patients and develop the caregiving skills needed.

Exam Requirements

After completing your training, the next step is to take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, which is required for certification in many states.

The NNAAP exam consists of two parts:

Written or Oral Exam: This portion tests your knowledge of critical concepts related to patient care, safety, and nursing procedures.
Clinical Skills Test: In this hands-on exam, you must demonstrate your ability to perform essential CNA duties, such as taking vital signs, assisting with personal hygiene, and moving patients safely.

Once you pass both parts of the exam, you’ll officially become a Certified Nursing Assistant and can begin working in healthcare settings. In order to maintain your certification, you’ll also need to complete ongoing education and training each year, ensuring you stay up-to-date with the latest patient care practices.

What are the Qualities of a CNA?

Being a Certified Nursing Assistant requires more than just technical skills. You’ll need compassion, patience, and excellent communication abilities to succeed in this role.

Here are some essential qualities that every successful CNA possesses:

Empathy: Patients may be dealing with a variety of physical and emotional challenges. Your ability to understand their feelings and provide support is crucial.
Attention to Detail: CNAs are often the first to notice changes in a patient’s condition. Paying close attention to your patients’ needs and documenting any changes is essential to providing high-quality care.
Physical Stamina: The role can be physically demanding, requiring you to lift patients, stand for long periods, and assist with various tasks throughout the day.
Strong Communication Skills: You’ll need to communicate effectively with patients, their families, and the rest of the healthcare team.
Adaptability: Each patient is different, and every day can bring new challenges. Being flexible and adapting to each patient’s needs is key.

What is the Career Outlook?

The career outlook for CNA jobs is bright, especially with the growing demand for healthcare services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for CNAs is projected to grow 4% from 2023 to 2033. As the population ages, the need for skilled caregivers in long-term care facilities and hospitals continues to rise.

CNA jobs are not only abundant but also versatile. Those interested in this specialty can work in various healthcare settings and even explore certified nursing assistant jobs that offer travel opportunities, allowing them to experience different healthcare environments while developing your skills.

Additionally, working as a CNA opens the door to further education and career advancement. Many CNAs go on to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs), taking advantage of their hands-on experience to advance in the nursing field.

Start Your CNA Journey with MEDRelief Staffing

If you’re ready to start your journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant, MEDRelief Staffing is here to help. We offer opportunities for new CNAs and experienced professionals looking for the next step in their healthcare career. Our extensive network of healthcare providers provides plenty of CNA jobs that match your skills and career goals.