CAREER SNAPSHOT
Summary
Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) help patients with everyday tasks such as bathing, toileting, dressing and eating.
Career Level
Similar Jobs
Consider these careers as well:
Salary
National average, per year
$28,530
JOB OPENINGS
Current national estimate
62,098
DEMAND OUTLOOK
Actual salaries can vary substantially based on region, job description and employer expectations; does not include additional compensation. Data source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: May 2019
OVERVIEW
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Description
Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) are a vital part of the healthcare team. They provide basic care to patients and assist them with activities of daily living. They work closely with LPNs and RNs to deliver quality care to the patients. CNAs learn important skills that can last a lifetime. They can truly make a difference in a patient’s life and this can be very rewarding.
If you are considering a career in the medical field, becoming a CNA is a great first step. The training programs are short and can typically be completed in 6-12 weeks. There is often flexibility in work hours and there are a variety of settings to work in. CNAs who want to advance their career, often find it easier to get accepted into nursing programs.
Certified Nursing Assistant Job Responsibilities
Certified nursing assistants may perform the following job duties. Actual duties may vary by job and location.
- Take patient’s blood pressure, temperature, pulse and oxygen level
- Answer patient call lights
- Assist patients with meals
- Document patient’s food and fluid intake
- Assist patients with toileting needs
- Clean patient rooms and change bed linens
- Ostomy care
- Turn and reposition bedridden patients
Certified Nursing Assistant Salary
The actual salary of the certified nursing assistant can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Most recent data shown.
National average per year: $28,530*
National average per hour: $13.72*
- $27,934 per year, $13.43 per hour**
- $25,646 per year, $12.33 per hour***
- $28,585 to $34,631 per year****
- $27,104 per year, $13.03 per hour*****
* Bureau of Labor Statics
** Indeed.com
*** Payscale.com
**** Salary.com
***** Glassdoor.com
Certified Nursing Assistant Career Pros and Cons
What are the ups and downs of being a certified nursing assistant? Here are a few items to keep in mind.
Pros
- Excellent job security
- Start a job quickly with short training time
- Build strong and meaningful relationships with patients
- May be easier to get accepted into nursing programs (if that is the path you choose)
- Flexible work schedule
- Daily job varies
- Emotionally rewarding
- Learn important skills that last a lifetime
Cons
- Entry-level salary
- Can be stressful
- Can be physically demanding
- May have to deal with difficult or uncooperative patients and/or family members
- Limited opportunity for professional advancement
- May have to work nights, weekends and holidays
- Exposure to infectious diseases
CAREER PATH AND TRAINING
How Do I Become a Certified Nursing Assistant?
If you are considering a career as a certified nursing assistant, here are the steps you will need to complete.
- Obtain your high school diploma/GED
- Complete a state-approved certificate training program in nursing assisting.
- Get certified in CPR/BLS.
- Pass the CNA certification exam. These exams vary by state. Contact your state board of nursing to learn more.
Suggested Career Path
The position of the certified nursing assistant is at the beginning of the medical career pathway, but can be preceded by other entry-level jobs. A sample career path could look like this:
Caregiver > Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) > Registered Nurse (RN)
Typical Minimum Education
Actual requirements may vary by state. Please check with your state government.
- High school diploma / GED
- Completion of a state-approved certificate training program
- CPR/BLS certification
Typical Work Experience Required
No work experience required to start.
Typical Skills Required
Common skills listed. Actual skills required may vary by job and location.
- Good listening and communication skills
- Empathy and compassion
- Patience
- Positivity
- Keen observation skills
- Physical stamina
- Compassion
- Knowledge of medical terminology
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent time management and organizational skills
Certified Nursing Assistant Certifications
After successful completion of the nursing assistant training program, you must pass your state’s certification exam. Each state has specific requirements in order to become certified. Visit your state board of nursing to learn more.
The American Red Cross offers CNA training and certification programs in California, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont:
- CNA, Certified Nursing Assistant (American Red Cross)
CPR/BLS certification is required:
- BLS, Basic Life Support for healthcare providers (AHA)
- BLS (American Red Cross)
Click on the certifications to find out more.
Certified Nursing Assistant Licenses
Some states require licensure. Contact your state board of nursing for specific requirements.
Certified Nursing Assistant Training and Preparation
Once you have earned your high school diploma or GED, you can then enroll in a state-approved nursing assistant training program. The programs are available through community colleges, vocational schools and even some medical facilities. The American Red Cross also offers training programs. These are non-degree programs and typically take 6-12 weeks to complete.
Once you have successfully completed the training program, you are then required to pass your state’s certification exam. Each state has specific requirements in order to become certified. Preparing for this exam can be challenging. There are many websites that offer practice questions and exams. Many of these sites provide the information for free. Flashcards and test review books are also great study tools. Being prepared and confident can help ensure your success.
Was this article helpful?
@Raising Careers Inbox
Like this article? Sign up for our newsletter and we’ll send you a summary of everything new on Raising Careers once a week.