A CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) has a job which is both physically and mentally demanding – but often emotionally rewarding. It also offers a great deal of job security for the future, as the American population ages and requires additional care. So, how can you find out if being a CNA is the right choice for you?
First, you need to be aware of what CNA tasks normally include, and the population a CNA normally works with, to determine if the work itself is something you would be interested in doing. Second, you need to consider your future career goals. Finally, you should know what kind of financial investment it takes to become a CNA, and what your employment outlook you will be. All these factors together will help you to decide if becoming a CNA is an appropriate choice for you.
A CNA is exactly what the name says – they assist supervising nurses, usually a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse. CNAs complete tasks which are very important to patient care, but do not require highly specialized training. They assist patients with basic, non-critical needs, such as personal hygiene, relieving themselves, exercising, changing linens, and monitoring vital signs and food intake and outputs. All of these tasks are crucial to patient safety and comfort. One wrinkle in a bed sheet can cause sores and infection.
CNAs work most often with elderly patients, though they can also be found as assistants in virtually any medical setting. Much of the time a CNA works with the same patients for months or years. All of this means that you must be a person who is patient, organized, and caring, and who does not turn up their nose at dealing with incontinence or dirty nails. You must also be calm and firm in order to deal with stubborn patients and overworked doctors. The rewards of CNA work – making a tangible difference in the quality of life of patients – must be important to you, too.
How can becoming a CNA help you with your future plans? Many, many RNs started their medical careers as CNAs. If you are interested in becoming a nurse, working as a CNA lets you get an idea of what the work is like, without committing to a long period of study. It also gives you valuable “front-line” experience that will serve you as you work towards your nursing degree.
Finally, you should know what becoming a CNA will cost you, and what you will get in return (financially speaking). CNA training programs run from about four to eight weeks, and vary in cost from around $800 to $2000 – which is far less time and money than what you would need to get an associate’s degree. First-year CNAs generally make at least a dollar over minimum wage, and often substantially more (depending on the state), with median salaries of around $11 to $13. Finally, CNAs are in enormous demand and will continue to be, ensuring some of the highest job security in existence.
So, if you’ve got the right personality, are interested in helping others, and like the salary prospects – becoming a CNA is definitely the way to go.