Everything About Nursing Assistant Certification

Nursing Assistant Certification – Overview

Those seeking to become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) must acquire their Nursing Assistant Certification. With this certification, you can handle patients directly under the supervision of an RN (Registered Nurse) or an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse).

These professional nurses are trained in helping patients with their basic daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, eating, etc.

Unlike other similar professions in nursing, a CNA is not required to have a college degree. However, they must still undergo training to receive a post-secondary, non-degree diploma or certificate.

Every state issues CNA credentials under different regulations and rules. Hence, prospective nursing assistants should enroll in a state-accredited training program before undertaking a state certification exam.

What are the Educational Qualifications Required to Become a CNA?

Prospective CNAs must obtain a high school diploma or GED and get nursing assistant training. Numerous trade schools, vocational community colleges, and medical facilities in the US provide nursing assistant training.

However, before applying to any nursing assistant program, you should check that the program is supported and approved by the state nursing board and the National League for Nursing Accredited Commission (NLNAC).

Once you complete Nursing Assistant Certification training, you must appear for the CNA certification exam. This exam has two parts – the practical part and the written part.

The written exam is conducted in a group setting and has several multiple-choice questions. You have 90 minutes to attempt the exam.

The second part, the clinical skills exam, is conducted individually with a single test observer.

Applicants are tested on at least four random clinical skills to measure their competency. This part of the exam needs to be attempted in 30 minutes.

Are there any Additional Certifications or Credentials Required to become a CNA

The CCNE accredits nursing education programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, not specifically CNA programs, which are typically overseen by state nursing boards.

The US Department of Education offers oversight of the accreditation process. The Department of Education also maintains an extensive database of accredited nursing schools.

Where Can You Work as a CNA?

As a CNA, you can expect to work in various environments. However, data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that many nursing assistants also work in nursing care facilities, hospitals and even assisted living facilities for geriatric patients.

Some other opportunities for employment for CNAs include working at a private doctor’s office, community clinics, and urgent care centers.

In addition, CNAs also work as home health aides and at hospices. They are tasked with taking care of patients in the patient’s home.

What are the Roles and Responsibilities of a CNA?

After nursing assistant certification, you work under the direct supervision of licensed nursing professionals. These nurses care for patients who are disabled, infirm, ill or injured and are unable to care for themselves.

In different work settings, CNAs are the first point of contact for patients. A CNA can perform various basic clinical tasks, especially those that are directly related to the patient’s comfort.

As a CNA, you can expect to:

Take the patient’s temperature, blood pressure, and other vital sign readings
Turn or reposition bedridden patients
Answer patient calls
Feed patients apart from recording and measuring their solid and liquid food intake.
Cleaning rooms
Changing bed linens
Dressing wounds
Helping the doctor with medical procedures
Bathing patients
Stocking supplies
Gathering supplies and equipment for an RN or MD
Taking care of the appearance and hygiene of the patient
Preparing rooms for admitting patients

How Much Can I Expect to Earn as a CNA?

With the increasing number of baby boomers entering their golden years, there is a growing demand for preventive medical care.

As per BLS statistics, the average annual salary for certified nursing assistants in the US was amounted to around US$ 36,220 in 2022. The exact salary for CNAs varies according to state and the specific healthcare settings they work in.

Conclusion

After nursing assistant certification, you should be ready to assist doctors and registered nurses in administering medical treatments.

However, most of your working hours will be spent caring for infirm and bedridden patients. The career scope and salary growth as a CNA in the US are incredibly prospective.

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