Most of the individuals that have found themselves becoming interested in a health care industry profession will do research on the various certified nursing assistant (CNA) programs offered in their local area. CNAs are generally the first line of contact between patients and the hospital/health care facility staff, and are working under the supervision of the nurse to provide adequate patient care and give the nurse vital information regarding the patient's condition.
Most of a CNA's tasks are related to hygiene and personal care for the patient, including giving hem baths, grooming patients, helping them with feeding, assistance in going to the restroom, keeping abreast of their vital signs and health condition, patient transport via wheelchairs and gurneys, and keeping a written record of all relevant patient information. Emotionally, the CNA will be responsible for interacting with the patient and providing support professionally and socially during the patient's stay in the health care organization.
It's not uncommon for the majority of CNAs to see the job as a temporary placeholder to a future career goal as a registered nurse (RN), and their time as a CNA can open several doors. Many hospitals who mark a impressive trait in their CNAs will sponsor their educational efforts in becoming an RN, and the CNA role is a vital element of hands-on experience in the work field towards the successful completion of major nursing programs.
One of the biggest draws towards a CNA career is the fact that the profession doesn't require any prerequisites to enter (aside from a predisposition towards helping patients during their stay in a health care organization) as long as they carry a high school diploma or GED. Most CNA training programs are offered at various health care organizations, and local community colleges, and are completed after a college semester (or in most cases weeks before a full semester's term is over). Covering studies in anatomy and physiology, the nursing basics, control of infectious diseases, and nutritional courses the CNA student will obtain a certificate upon passing the final exam, and can then register as a certified CNA with the NAHC (National Association for Home Care)
CNAs make anywhere from $23,000 and $30,000 in yearly salaries when first starting out. As their experience and skill sets grow, and depending on the health care organization they work in, the salaries will grow from there. With job opportunities in hospitals, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, private home patient care environments, and mental health care institutions the CNA is in high demand with a variety of locations. It's a great way to get one's foot in the door of the consistently growing health care industry, and is one of the few jobs today expected to increase in demand significantly over the next decade.
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