With so many different nursing programs and degrees on offer it is sometimes difficult to differentiate between a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), and a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Quite simply, a CNA is someone who helps patients with healthcare needs under the supervision of an RN or an LPN. Issues of liability and legality prevent the CNA from performing certain procedures.
Role and duties of a certified nursing assistant
A nursing assistant's duties will vary depending on where she works. Laws vary from state to state and what is allowed for a registered nursing assistant in one state may not be allowed in another state.
CNAs have the chance to work in a variety of settings such as nursing homes, adult day care centers, assisted living facilities, personal residences, and act as liaisons between the RN or LPN and the patient.
The CNA in many cases serves as the RN or the LPN's ears and eyes.
Some of the CNA's duties include providing basic needs for patients of any age, gender, ethnicity and work under supervision. As they have close contact with patients they provide vital information about the patient's condition to their supervisors.
The workload can become intense and stressful, but many CNAs state that the job is rewarding and that they have a desire to care for people.
A successful CNA is one with good people skills and one who engages well with patients. Being a team player is an especially valuable trait.
Training programs are offered by the Red Cross, community colleges, online nursing schools and medical facilities. Many schools offer training within medical facilities as part of the course program. This allows the students to stay focused and also gives them hands-on training. All CNAs are required to take an examination before they can start work.
The demand for CNAs is high among institutions which provide quality care for the elderly. People at health care facilities recognize the importance of a qualified and compassionate CNA and how it can positively affect patients.
A CNA can find support through organizations such as the National Association of Health Care Assistants. Remember every state is different as far as the amount of time required for training and the type of environment where you would like to work. Before starting your CNA training, contact the State Nurse Aide Registry and/or State Licensing Board to enquire about their requirements - especially about the state in which you want to work.
Finding a college where you can train for a CNA is easy. Go online under the heading nursing colleges and fill in your degree subject and other details and a list of colleges will come up for you to browse and choose from. They all have similar nursing programs although the titles might not all be the same. Have a notebook and pen ready to make notes. Check out the eligibility requirements. Check to see what paperwork and documents you need to fill out your application. Remember to check out programs in your own state.
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