task of nursing assistant

• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

Premier Nursing Academy

What Is a CNA?

A CNA, or certified nursing assistant, is an entry-level member of a patient’s healthcare team, performing important patient-centered tasks under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. Although a CNA is not a nurse, they work very closely with nurses, physicians, and other healthcare providers.

Becoming a CNA  is the path that many people take to start their career in healthcare. Some may move onto more advanced levels of nursing, while others are satisfied with the many rewards of working as a CNA. In either case, it will take you an average of only 10 weeks—and possibly as few as four—to complete the necessary education to become a certified nursing assistant.

This page will discuss typical CNA responsibilities and tasks, where CNAs work, the types of patients they interact with, the pros and cons of the job, and more.

What Does a CNA Do?

CNAs ensure the wellbeing of their patients by performing a variety of tasks that help with daily living activities. Because CNAs typically spend more time with patients than nurses or doctors, they understand their behaviors and health statuses.

They get to know each patient, their typical behaviors, and their general state of health and are often the first to notice physical or emotional changes. Whether identifying decreased mobility, increased pain, or memory issues, CNAs play important roles in the early detection of symptoms and may identify issues that other healthcare personnel do not.

Individual tasks can vary based on where a CNA works and the type of patients they serve, but typical responsibilities include:

• Answering call buttons and alerting nurses to emergencies
• Monitoring patient needs and reporting any issues to other healthcare personnel
• Helping patients with their daily needs, such as eating, bathing, dressing, and toileting
• Ensuring patient comfort by changing bedding, filling water jugs, and positioning items so they are in reach
• Repositioning patients in beds
• Helping patients move from a bed to a chair or wheelchair and back
• Assisting with lifting patients from their bed to examination tables, surgical tables, or stretchers

Depending on state regulations and facility requirements, some CNAs may perform additional advanced duties that include:

• Measuring and recording food and liquid consumption
• Accompanying patients to off-site doctor appointments
• Stocking or issuing medical supplies, such as dressing packs or treatment trays
• Measuring vital signs, including blood pressure, oxygen level, and temperature
• Explaining medical procedures and tests to patients and their families
• Dispensing medication as prescribed
• Changing dressings and bandages
• Setting up equipment such as oxygen tents, portable radiograph (X-ray) equipment, or IVs
• Assisting in minor medical procedures

Is CNA Considered a Nurse?

As their titles imply, certified nursing assistants “assist” nurses and other physicians rather than working as official nurses themselves. That said, CNAs are vital members of the nursing profession. For CNAs to practice, they must be under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses. Because they are not legally responsible for the medical care of the patients, they must practice under those who are.

Where Do CNAs Work?

CNAs work in various healthcare settings, including general and specialty hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living establishments, and rehabilitation facilities. In some cases, their non-routine duties may be somewhat dependent on where they work.

The patient populations CNAs work with can also vary along with the work setting. CNAs in hospitals might work in wards with specific age groups, such as infants or young children. They may work in specialty hospitals with cancer patients or patients with other specific health conditions.

CNAs who work in nursing homes deal with elderly patients, while those who work in rehabilitation facilities may interface with patients of all ages with various ailments or diseases. CNAs in memory care facilities have the challenge of working with patients who have Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

As a CNA, you have an abundance of options. You can work in environments and with populations that you are interested in and most comfortable with.

Pros and Cons of Becoming a CNA

As with any career, there are advantages and disadvantages to pursuing a career as a CNA.

Pros of CNA Work

• Quick entrance: Some fast-track CNA programs take between four to six weeks to complete, making it easy for students who want to enter the field quickly. Rather than spending two years working toward an associate degree, CNAs can start earning money in less than two months.
• No prerequisites: Unlike some nursing degree programs that require learners to complete a set number of prerequisite classes before even being admitted, CNA programs require only a high school diploma or GED.
• Many job openings: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for nursing assistants will grow by 8% between 2020-2030, leading to the creation of more than 115,000 new jobs — in addition to those that become available due to job turnover.
• Ability to test the waters: Individuals who think they may want to go into nursing but aren’t ready to commit to a longer program can try out work as a CNA to help them make an informed decision. As a CNA, you will regularly be exposed to nurses and the tasks they perform, which can help you determine whether you want to pursue that path.
• Make a difference: The work of a CNA can often feel thankless, but in reality, it greatly improves the lives of those they serve. Aside from performing daily tasks, CNAs get to know their patients and can serve as bright spots in their days—especially during challenging times when family can’t visit.

Cons of CNA Work

• Low wages: In 2020, CNAs earned median wages of $30,850 —far below the median wage of $75,330 for registered nurses. Nursing professionals who want to earn better salaries will typically need to pursue additional education.
• Physicality: As the list of responsibilities highlighted above indicates, much of the work a CNA does involves heavy lifting, bending over or stretching, and being on your feet for long periods. Individuals with physical ailments or injuries may find these roles too strenuous.
• Demanding: Working with patients facing health challenges can be extremely rewarding but also stressful. Whether losing a patient or dealing with those who are chronically irritated or angry, CNAs often face the brunt of others’ pain, suffering, and confusion.
• Limited room for growth: Unless a practicing CNA wants to complete a bridge program or a degree, CNA positions offer little room for growth. Some may decide to move to administrative positions, but they’re often unable to move up the nursing ladder without heading back to school.
• Scheduling difficulties: Many CNAs report regularly being required to work weekends as part of their employment. Some also have rotating shifts, meaning they work different days or times each week. Individuals looking for consistency may find this challenging—especially after doing it for a while.

Is CNA a Good Career?

Working as a certified nursing assistant can offer great career benefits for individuals with a passion for helping others. In some cases, your work as a CNA may be less involved than others. According to one Reddit user who works at a nonprofit healthcare facility for the homeless, their patients are “typically independent, and I’m pretty much responsible for vitals, bed making, and handing out snacks.” They continue, “Occasionally we have patients with higher levels of care, but our patients are usually totally self sufficient.”

In other cases, especially nursing homes or long-term care facilities, CNAs spend much of their time helping with tasks such as showering, toileting, and eating. “I’m responsible for senior citizens, getting them up in the morning,” says CNA Ashley Taylor on her YouTube channel. “It is dirty work, you have to change them and get them ready for the day. If you’re good with kids, this job is no different besides the age, honestly.”

Some CNAs know they want to work in hospital settings but need to gain experience elsewhere first if they’re straight out of training. “I knew I wanted to work at a hospital but coming straight out of the CNA program and getting my CNA license, I knew that hospitals probably wouldn’t hire someone with no experience,” says YouTube vlogger Rachel . “I knew that I needed to work at a nursing home or somewhere like that to get experience.”

What Makes a Great CNA?

CNAs are on the frontlines of providing basic patient care, making patients feel comfortable and calm, and seeing that their needs are met. To do these tasks well, CNAs need to possess a wide variety of skills and traits.

Dependability

CNAs must be reliable and responsible to complete the many tasks required to care for patients. Failing to be dependable as a CNA can have dire consequences for those who cannot care for themselves.

Providing an understanding ear for your patient and caring about their needs is a key part of the job. Many of these patients can feel quite vulnerable having someone else help them perform daily living tasks.

You might work with people whose ages, ethnicities, or lifestyles are different from your own. Being able to put yourself in their shoes will go a long way in providing empathetic care.

Ability to Work in a Team

As a CNA, you will interface with many different people throughout your shifts. In addition to supporting patients with their needs and answering questions from families, you will also communicate with nurses, doctors, and other professionals to ensure patients receive the care they need.

CNAs can often find themselves in stressful situations. From helping a patient with dementia who can become disoriented and lash out to carefully turning a patient on a ventilator, being able to manage your stress and stay calm will help everyone—including your patients.

It’s not always easy to work with people who are hurting, scared, or frustrated about their inability to do the things they used to do. Some patients can be demanding, irritable, stubborn, and otherwise trying. Being patient and realizing the cause of these behaviors will help you deal more effectively with patients and their families.

Communication

Do you enjoy talking with others? Can you communicate clearly and effectively? Effective communication is an important requirement for CNAs. You will be communicating with various people, including patients, family members, nurses, doctors, and other healthcare staff. Being able to relay information in a way that is understandable and useful is a must.

Physical Fitness

While you don’t have to be a super athlete to be a CNA, keep in mind that the job of a CNA is not a sedentary one. You will be doing a lot of walking, and you may be lifting, moving, or turning patients.

Lack of Squeamishness

Your work with patients will involve dealing with personal bodily functions, as well as blood and injuries. If you are at all squeamish, being a CNA is probably not the career for you.

What to Expect as a CNA

In truth, CNAs can experience substantially different workdays based on where they work, the type of patients they care for, and their work hours. For example, a CNA working nights and weekends in a nursing home typically has a different experience than working three 12-hour shifts per week in a neonatal unit.

CNAs typically work shifts lasting eight or 12 hours, with those taking the 12-hour shifts getting an extra day off. Eight-hour shifts usually last from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., or 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Most jobs consist of 32-40 hours per week, and many positions require CNAs to work at least one weekend shift every month.

FAQs About Certified Nursing Assistant Jobs

If you’re thinking about becoming a CNA, you may still have some questions about the career. There are some of the most frequently asked questions about the CNA profession.

How Much Do CNAs Make?

As of May 2020, nursing assistants earned average annual salaries of $32,050 . Those in the top 10% of earners received an average of $42,110, while those in the bottom 10% earned just $22,750. Salaries for CNAs can vary substantially, so individuals considering this path should research and make sure typical earnings meet their needs.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant?

Becoming a certified nursing assistant can take varying lengths of time, from four weeks to three months, depending on specific programs and student schedules. Those who want to enter the field as quickly as possible can find accelerated programs that take just a few weeks to complete, while students with busier schedules may prefer a longer part-time option. Look into several different programs to find the one that meets your needs.

Is CNA the Same as Medical Assistant?

Both CNAs and medical assistants operate in healthcare support roles, but their training requirements and responsibilities differ. CNAs spend their days providing direct patient care, including many of the responsibilities outlined throughout this guide.

Medical assistants straddle the line between administrative and clinical tasks. Part of the day, they may answer phones, schedule patient appointments, or organize filing systems. At other times they may administer shots and medication, assist physicians during exams, or take vital signs.

Is Nursing Assistant the Same as a CNA?

While some nursing assistant positions don’t require certification, those jobs may not involve the medical care responsibilities that CNAs typically have. Individuals who plan on completing further education at some point to become an LPN, RN, or other nursing professional should make sure they become certified. Earning this qualification will also help you stand out from other candidates during the job interview process.

Is CNA a Degree?

CNA is not a degree but rather a certification. Because it takes only a few weeks to months to become a CNA, these training programs are much shorter than nursing degree programs. That said, nursing assistants who decide they want to continue on the CNA career path can pursue a degree.

How Do I Get My CNA Certification?

The first step to receiving CNA certification is to complete a certified nursing training program. Many state boards of nursing provide a list of approved programs to help students pick a reputable option.

After completing all requirements, graduates must take the CNA certification exam administered by their state and receive a passing grade. They can then apply for licensure. To maintain licensure, CNAs must follow continuing education hour requirements set by their state board of nursing.

What Else Do You Need to Know?

Now that you’ve gotten an overview of what the job of the CNA involves, there are other things you probably want to know about the career as well. What is the outlook for CNAs? How much can I earn? How do I become a CNA? You can find answers to these questions by checking out other pages on PremierNursingAcademy.com:

• How to Become a CNA
• CNA Job Outlook and Salary
• CNA Career Paths
• Health Care Education Paths

How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

• What is a CNA?
• How to Become
• Top Programs
• Career Growth
• Career Outlook
• Related Careers

What is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?

A CNA, or Certified Nursing Assistant, is a healthcare professional who provides basic care to patients under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). CNAs are sometimes referred to as nurse aides, patient care technicians, or nursing assistants. They assist with daily patient care tasks like dressing, bathing, and checking patient vital signs.

These vital patient care providers are the backbone of the American healthcare system. With a short certification process, becoming a CNA is often the most accessible way for new workers to enter the nursing field. 

This article will explore what certified nursing assistants do, how much they earn, and how to become a CNA. Keep reading to prepare for your nursing assistant career today.

Nurses Helping Nurses: Why You Can Trust Nurse.org

As the leading educational website for nurses by nurses, Nurse.org is committed to editorial integrity and data-driven analysis. 

✔ Content written by 80+ licensed, practicing nurses who are experts in their respective specialties. Learn more about our nurse contributors .

✔ Transparent, trusted data sources from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), Payscale, ZipRecruiter, and Glassdoor. Learn more about our data sources .

✔ Consistent article updates to ensure they are as relevant and accurate as possible, utilizing the latest data and information when it becomes available.

What Does a CNA Do?

CNAs can help a unit run smoothly, especially for nurses with multiple medically complex patients. Common CNA responsibilities include:

• Turning or repositioning patients
• Gathering supplies for the RN or MD
• Checking and charting vital signs
• Answering patient calls/bells
• Bathing, feeding, and dressing patients
• Measuring and recording patient food/liquid intake
• Preparing rooms for admissions 
• Assisting with medical procedures
• Dressing wounds
• Assisting patients with elimination

Direct responsibilities will vary based on the location of employment and the nurse's level of need. Different states have individual CNA requirements and duties. You can check your state guidelines for specific details about approved CNA duties and tasks in the state where you plan to practice.

How to Become a CNA

Certified nursing assistants must complete a state-approved training program. CNA programs are generally found at local community colleges, high schools, vocational or technical schools, or local hospitals.

Most programs have similar CNA certification requirements that must be completed prior to application and acceptance. The American Red Cross runs a popular CNA training program throughout the country which runs for 4-8 weeks depending on class size and location. Prerequisites include:

• Attendance at an orientation information session
• TABE (reading and math assessment) OR verification of High School diploma or GED
• Red Cross criminal background check prior to registration
• Completion of Red Cross physical form and TB test

Where Do CNAs Work?

The most common CNA workplaces include:

• Hospitals (state and local)
• Skilled nursing facilities
• Long-term residential facilities
• Rehabilitation centers
• Adult daycare centers

Certified nursing assistants rarely work in outpatient, office, or clinic settings. These facilities all require nursing assistants to act as a liaison between the nurse and the patient. 

CNA Qualities

As patient care liaisons, CNAs must enjoy interacting with people and have good bedside manners. But other skills or attributes that can help your nursing assistant career include:

• Flexibility
• Advanced communication skills
• Time management
• Reliability
• Physical Strength

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual nursing assistant salary in 2023 was $38,130 per year or $18.33 per hour. 

However, CNA salary expectations will vary depending on the setting and area. CNAs working in dentistry earn the most, with an average mean salary of $57,450. On the other hand, home healthcare services have the lowest median pay at $35,640. 

Highest Paying States for CNAs

According to the BLS , the following states have the highest pay scale for certified nursing assistants. 

Highest Paying Cities for CNAs

Metropolitan areas tend to pay higher for nursing assistants. Some of the highest-paying cities include:

Highest Paying Nonmetropolitan Areas for CNAs

Nonmetropolitan areas that pay CNAs the most in the US include:

• Alaska nonmetropolitan area
• Eastern Sierra-Mother Lode Region of California nonmetropolitan area
• North Valley-Northern Mountains Region of California nonmetropolitan area
• Coast Oregon nonmetropolitan area
• Hawaii / Kauai nonmetropolitan area

Top CNA Programs

We consulted nursing experts to curate the top 10 CNA programs in the nation. To determine which programs made this list, our nursing panel used Nurse.org's proprietary ranking methodology .

Our nurses considered several crucial factors in selecting these programs, including:

• Program length
• Acceptance rate, when available

3 Registered Nurses with years of experience and multiple degrees comprise our selection panel:

• Tracy Everhart, MSN, RN, CNS
• Tyler Faust, MSN, RN
• Kathleen Gaines, MSN, BSN, RN, BA, CBC

Because individual nursing pathways take various forms, our panel ranked the top CNA programs in no particular order. 

1. Uintah Basin Technical College

• Total Tuition: $300
• Online: Hybrid
• Program Length: 6 weeks

Students can complete the three-credit CNA program at UB Tech in as little as six weeks. This program covers everything new nursing aides need to know, including patient care, medical law and ethics, infection control, and life-saving procedures like CPR.

This program uses a hybrid learning format and is available on each of UB Tech's campuses, Roosevelt or Vernal. It incorporates classroom and clinical training, culminating in a written and skills test.

Learn More About This Program

2. Cochise College

• Total Tuition: $1,500
• Program Length: 16 weeks

Based in Cochise County, Arizona, Cochise College offers multiple allied health programs, including a nursing assistant certificate. Cochise College's two-course CNA program teaches skills to become a nurse assistant as well as basic CPR and First Aid skills. Graduates also become CPR and First Aid certified. Arizona residents get an in-state discount, though Cochise also extends discounts to senior citizens and charges a per-credit rate. 

3. Hutchinson Community College

• Total Tuition: Resident - $558 | Nonresident - $698
• Program Length: 12 weeks

Created to educate nurses to work with elderly patients in long-term healthcare settings, Hutchinson Community College's CNA program requires just 4.5 credits to graduates, making it among the shortest and most affordable CNA programs available.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, students must study on-site in Hutchinson, Kansas. While the Kansas Board of Nursing doesn't disclose outcomes for CNA programs, this short program quickly prepares nurses to gain a CNA certification.

4. Pratt Community College

• Tuition Per Credit: Resident - $70 | Nonresident - $84

Pratt Community College, another college located in Kansas, offers its CNA program in a hybrid format, allowing students to complete coursework and theory online. The program requires five credits, though students who choose to study online do not receive an in-state tuition discount. Regardless, Pratt CC's CNA program costs far less than other programs. Graduates can find positions in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and various hospitals. 

5. Elizabethtown Community and Technical College

• Total Tuition: $558

Elizabethtown Community and Technical College offers the best CNA program in Kentucky and perhaps in the region. The low-cost CNA program requires the completion of just 96 hours of practice, 16 of which must be supervised clinical skills training. 

Students can also complete a Medicaid Nurse Aide Certificate to boost their job prospects and potential earnings. Graduates must attend 100% of courses to graduates. Elizabethtown offers courses on weekdays, Saturdays, and in the evening. 

6. Fox Valley Technical College

• Total Tuition: $529.75
• Program Length: Up to 12 weeks

Located in Appleton, Wisconsin, Fox Valley Technical College's CNA program is among the cheapest routes for becoming a CNA, though the school's estimated costs do not include exam fees. The full-time program consists of daytime and evening courses, and FVTC also offers an accelerated format that takes less than 12 weeks to complete.

Students cannot take courses online but can complete courses at six different locations in Wisconsin. Graduates can also transfer their CNA credits into an associate's or bachelor's degree. 

7. Elgin Community College

• Total Tuition: $5,476
• Total Tuition: $1,040 

Elgin Community College offers one of the most comprehensive nurse assistant programs. The training program requires the completion of seven credit hours (double what other programs require) to increase graduates' job prospects by increasing their potential scope of practice. By the end of the program, graduates can take the nurse assistant certification exam in Illinois, though the program might also meet requirements for other states. 

8. Century College

• Total Tuition: $825.64

Century College, based in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, offers its four-credit nurse assistant certificate program in both part-time and full-time formats. Available year-round, the CNA program allows students to complete courses either for credit or not for credit.

Both options lead to program completion, though for-credit courses can be transferred into an associate's or bachelor's degree. Regardless of which option students choose, Century College is among the most affordable institutions in the region. 

9. City College of San Fransisco

• Tuition Per Credit: $452.00
• Program Length: 6-10 weeks

With several CNA options available, the City College of San Francisco is one of California's most versatile CNA programs. Nurse assistant students choose to specialize in acute care or convalescent care, which take 6 and 10 weeks to complete, respectively.

The convalescent care route also requires twice as many credits, meaning double the tuition cost. The City College of San Francisco is definitely more affordable for California residents who pay a fraction of what out-of-state students pay. 

10. Miles Community College

• Total Tuition: Resident - $740 | Nonresident - $964.00
• Program Length: 10 weeks

Miles City, Montana-based Miles Community College offers one of the region's best (and most affordable) CNA programs. Students complete 45 of the required credit hours online and 30 hours of clinical practice in person. The 75-hour program counts as four credits that students can transfer into another nursing program.

Note that while Miles CC's CNA program prepares nurses for Montana certification, the costs associated with the exam are not included in the total tuition. 

Online CNA Programs

While most of the top CNA programs offer in-person classes, some vocational schools and community colleges offer online CNA programs. Many programs operate clinics at local hospitals.

There are pros and cons to online programs. While individuals may be able to obtain their CNA certification quicker, there is concern that graduates from these programs are not gaining the same core knowledge and skills as their in-classroom counterparts.

How Do CNAs Transition to Other Nursing Positions?

Becoming a certified nursing assistant will not immediately prepare you for other nursing occupations.

However, the base of knowledge and experience earned as a CNA can help you gain entry into LPN or RN programs. However, earning these nursing certifications will require completing separate continuing education programs.

Remember that your CNA experience and education won't likely translate to shortened LPN or RN training. But it could translate to less stress and confusion as you navigate nursing school courses. It can also help your career outlook because you'll already have a professional network when you graduate.

CNA Career Outlook

Certified nursing assistants are in high demand, and the need is projected to continue through the next decade. The BLS predicts CNA career growth of 4% between 2022 and 2032. 

This number will only increase as the baby boomer generation ages, and there is an increased demand for additional long-term nursing care facilities. Nursing assistants will be needed to care for this population which is more likely to suffer from dementia and other neurologic changes.

Related Healthcare Careers

If you're interested in becoming a CNA, you might also want to check out these other healthcare careers you can start working in quickly!

CNA vs Medical Assistant

While certified nursing assistants and medical assistants (MAs) have some similarities, they are not the same job. Both careers assist doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers with treatments, procedures, and tests. However, MAs primarily conduct patient assessments and evaluations as they assist doctors with patient care and treatment.

On the other hand, certified nursing assistants focus on direct patient care and have specific job-related duties that are dictated by their state of employment.

>> Related: Medical Assistant vs CNA: What's the Difference?

To  become an LPN , you must pass a state-mandated exam and obtain a nursing license. On the other hand, CNAs only need to obtain a certification to practice.

Though both career paths don't require a college degree to practice, LPNs have higher education requirements than CNAs. For example, LPNs gain a deeper knowledge about healthcare and the human body during their year-long training programs. Such additional knowledge allows them to perform more complex procedures that CNAs cannot, like inserting a peripheral intravenous catheter.

CNA vs STNA

State-tested nursing assistants, or STNAs, essentially have the same role as CNAs. The only difference is their state of practice. While most states use the CNA title, Ohio uses STNA. You can learn more about the differences in these careers in our STNA vs CNA guide.

CNA Resources

Professional nursing organizations such as the Nursing Association of Health Care Assistants are great resources for information about becoming a CNA. Being a member of an organization provides you with several professional development opportunities, including:

• Discussions on growing healthcare trends impacting CNAs
• Healthcare conventions for nursing assistants
• Access to education hours
• Job boards and opportunities
• Contact information for local chapters

These associations are more than just a great resource for new CNAs. They also provide vital information for those who are already established in their career. By joining these professional organizations, you can make vital connections with industry experts and managers, leading to future career growth opportunities.

What Does CNA Mean?

• CNA stands for Certified Nursing Assistant. 

What Does a Nursing Assistant Do?

•  A CNA assists with nursing duties in patient care–this can include everything from help with grooming, bathing, feeding, and activities of daily life. 

How Much Do CNAs Make an Hour?

• A CNA's median hourly income is $18.33, according to the BLS.

How Long is CNA Training?

• You can become a CNA in as little as 4-12 weeks. 

What State Pays CNAs the Most?

• The District of Columbia, Alaska, California, Oregon, and Washington are the five highest-paying states for CNAs.

What is the Difference Between a CNA and an LPN?

• A CNA is a nursing assistant, while an LPN is a Licensed Practical Nurse. An LPN has more responsibilities and earns more than a CNA.

How Much Does it Cost to Become a CNA?

• You can complete nursing assistant training for under $1000. 

How Can I get my CNA Faster?

• Most CNA programs can be completed in a matter of weeks. 

What Type of CNA Earns the Most?

• CNAs who work at dentist offices earn the highest salaries.

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

By clicking “Join Now”, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. You may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.

Job Duties of Nursing Assistants

nursingassistant.io ·

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the responsibilities of a nursing assistant. This blog post aims to shed light on the crucial role nursing assistants play in healthcare. We will delve into the various tasks they perform, the skills they need, and the impact they have on patient care. Whether you're considering a career in this field or simply curious, this post will provide a detailed understanding of what nursing assistants do.

The Role of a Nursing Assistant: An Overview

Nursing assistants, often referred to as Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), are vital members of the healthcare team. They provide direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses. Their role is multifaceted, involving both clinical and non-clinical tasks.

In a clinical setting, nursing assistants are the backbone of patient care. They assist patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and moving around. They also take vital signs, monitor patients' health, and report changes to the nursing staff.

In addition to their clinical duties, nursing assistants also perform non-clinical tasks. These include cleaning and sanitizing patient areas, changing bed linens, and ensuring the comfort and safety of patients. They also play a significant role in providing emotional support to patients and their families.

Clinical Duties of a Nursing Assistant

Delving deeper into the clinical duties of a nursing assistant, their responsibilities are extensive and varied. They are often the first point of contact for patients, making their role critical in shaping the patient's experience.

One of the primary duties of a nursing assistant is to assist patients with their daily living activities. This includes helping patients with personal hygiene tasks such as bathing, grooming, and toileting. They also assist patients with mobility, helping them move around safely.

Nursing assistants also monitor patients' vital signs, including blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and respiration rate. They document these readings and report any abnormalities to the nursing staff. They also observe and record patients' health conditions, noting changes in behavior, physical symptoms, or pain levels.

Non-Clinical Duties of a Nursing Assistant

Beyond their clinical duties, nursing assistants also perform a range of non-clinical tasks that contribute to the smooth running of healthcare facilities. These tasks, while not directly related to patient care, are essential for maintaining a clean, safe, and comfortable environment for patients.

Nursing assistants are responsible for cleaning and sanitizing patient areas. This includes changing bed linens, cleaning bathrooms, and ensuring that patient rooms are tidy and free from hazards. They also assist with meal preparation and feeding patients who are unable to feed themselves.

In addition to these tasks, nursing assistants also play a key role in facilitating communication between patients and healthcare providers. They relay information from patients to nurses and doctors, and vice versa, ensuring that patients' needs and concerns are addressed.

The Impact of a Nursing Assistant on Patient Care

The role of a nursing assistant extends beyond their list of duties. They have a profound impact on the quality of patient care and the overall patient experience.

Nursing assistants spend a significant amount of time with patients, often more than any other healthcare provider. This close contact allows them to build strong relationships with patients, providing emotional support and comfort during difficult times.

Their role in monitoring patients' health and communicating with the nursing staff also contributes to the quality of care. By closely observing patients and reporting changes in their condition, nursing assistants play a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

Essential Skills for a Nursing Assistant

To effectively perform their duties, nursing assistants need a specific set of skills. These include both hard skills, such as knowledge of basic nursing procedures, and soft skills, like communication and empathy.

Nursing assistants must have a solid understanding of basic nursing procedures. This includes skills such as taking vital signs, assisting with mobility, and maintaining patient hygiene. They also need to be familiar with safety procedures and infection control protocols.

In terms of soft skills, communication is key. Nursing assistants must be able to effectively communicate with patients, their families, and other healthcare providers. They also need to have strong interpersonal skills, as they often provide emotional support to patients.

The Future of Nursing Assistants

The role of nursing assistants is evolving, with increasing opportunities for advancement and specialization. As the healthcare industry continues to grow, the demand for nursing assistants is expected to rise.

Nursing assistants can choose to specialize in areas such as geriatrics, pediatrics, or mental health. They can also pursue further education to become licensed practical nurses or registered nurses.

Despite the challenges, the role of a nursing assistant is rewarding. They have the opportunity to make a real difference in patients' lives, providing care and support when it's most needed.

Wrapping Up: The Integral Role of Nursing Assistants

In conclusion, nursing assistants play an integral role in healthcare. Their duties extend beyond clinical tasks, contributing to patient comfort, safety, and overall experience. They are the unsung heroes of healthcare, providing compassionate care and support to patients. Whether you're considering a career as a nursing assistant or simply wanted to understand their role better, we hope this guide has provided valuable insights.