Basic Nurse Assistant

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs), also known as nurses

aides, orderlies, patient care technicians, and home health aides,

work under the supervision of a nurse and provide assistance to

patients with daily living tasks.

WHAT DO CNAS DO?

Working closely with patients, CNAs are responsible for basic care services such as bathing, grooming and feeding patients, assisting nurses with medical equipment, and checking patient vital signs. CNAs give patients important social and emotional support and also provide vital information on patient conditions to nurses.

WHERE DO CNAS WORK?

CNAs work in nursing homes, hospitals, mental health facilities, assisted living facilities, and private homes. Job prospects for CNAs are expected to be excellent due to the increasing long-term care needs of an aging population.

WHAT KIND OF TRAINING WILL I NEED IN ORDER TO BECOME A CERTIFIED NURSE ASSISTANT?

In addition to a high school diploma or GED, you'll need to complete a five week CNA certificate program at a community college or medical facility. Classroom instruction generally includes basic nursing skills, anatomy and physiology, nutrition, and infection control. Students also gain plenty of hands-on-experience during clinical activities.

Do I need to be licensed as a CNA?

Regulations vary from state-to-state, but most CNA programs offer a certification exam. The National Association for Home Care offers national certification for home health aides.