CNA work | CNA employment | CNA Careers
The initials "C.N.A." stand for Certified Nursing Assistant. As a CNA, you will be under the direction of a Registered Nurse or an LPN. To become a CNA, you must first attend a State Certified Course that is approved for the State you wish to work in.
CNA work may vary from State to State, but almost all include some of the following.
Certified nursing assistants will be required to assist their patients/residents with their personal care and grooming, which includes bathing, mouth and denture care, shaving male patients, and helping dress or undress the patient. In A CNA Career You will also be expected to assist with patients nutritional needs. In a Cna Career You may be asked to check the food trays to make sure they are being given to the correct resident, pass out the food trays, feed patients that help, provide fresh water and make sure nutritious snacks are given at the correct time.
With CNA work you will be expected to assist with elimination needs, such as assisting with bed pans, emptying catheter bags, and helping with colostomy care. Certified nursing assistants are responsible for Promoting the patients safety, and as a certified nursing assistant, you will be expected to make sure that the residents' room is clutter-free. You will also clean and care for any equipment that is in the patients room, carry out isolation precautions if called for, and observe oxygen precautions.
CNA work almost always involves checking and recording vital signs, measuring intake and output, collecting specimens,and at times, measuring height and weight.
For bedridden patients, you will be required to turn and re-position the patient, provide approved range of motion exercises, assist with ambulating if called for, and transfer to bedside chair or wheelchair.
The resident's/patients comfort is another high priority. As a Certified Nursing Assistant, you will need to help make sure the lines of communication are open. You will want to be sure that the person under your care feels comfortable speaking with you about any worries he or she may have. Always keep your patients confidentiality. Providing orientation to a new resident is also part of a certified nursing assistants work description. Giving back massages, and making sure the call button is always within reach are two more duties you will be expected to perform.
Making beds, transporting patients from one area to another, assisting with special needs and doing errands asked by your superiors is all part of a CNA work.
CNA training | CNA Education Requirements |
When trying to find CNA training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, first and foremost, ask yourself if this is the job for you. It is a very testing and difficult task, yet rewarding. Next, you will need to check with your local health care professionals to find out what the criteria is since this varies upon location. Most cities offer CNA training taught at your local community college. In other places, you can
become a get CNA training by working for a health care facility such as a nursing home or even the Red Cross. Do be careful to understand that if the class is free, it may mean that you must work for that facility for a period of time after completing the classes.
Most CNA training taught in health care facilities have a two to six weeks time span. If a community college is your choice for CNA training, be prepared to spend up to six months in this CNA training course.
After the CNA training, you will take the State administered test. The test is comprised of two parts, clinical and written.
At random you are asked to demonstrate three to five skills during the clinical part, they include:
*Hand washing-before beginning, let down some paper towel, use plenty of soap, wash hands up to wrists and under fingernails for at least 20 seconds. Tare off the paper towel and dry hands, then use the paper towel to turn off the water.
*Privacy- before beginning knock on the door first to ask the patient if it is alright to enter, before performing tasks be sure to pull the privacy curtain.
*Dignity- again be sure to knock and introduce yourself to the patient. Then, “think out loud” in other words, tell the patient what you are about to do before you do it.
*Safety- performing such tasks as attaching a gait belt when transferring, raise bed before care, locking wheels on the wheelchair and any other steps that could cause harm to you or the patient.
*Giving bedpan- pull privacy curtain, put pan facing the correct way
*Repositioning- explain steps to the patient, use pillows and pads for comfort, place call light nearby
*Grooming- if having to do hair ask the patient how they would like their hair.
*Taking temperature- make sure you have the right thermometer, (red is rectal) and insert.
*Occupied bed complete bed change- make sure the patient stays covered at all times. Be sure the side rail is up on the side the patient is being turned.
CNA Education is a difficult yet very rewarding path to take for any healthcare professional.
The training for a CNA is relatively fast and painless, and the job market for up and coming CNA professionals is on the rise. Just remember often times people will become CNA's and find they they want even more responsibility (and more money). They often find themselves working as a CNA for a year or two and then moving on and becoming registered nurses.
CNA salary | CNA wages | CNA pay
The salary for a certified nursing assistant, or CNA Salary, varies based on geography, experience, and employer. Nationwide, according to payscale.com, A CNA with
less than a year of experience will average $8.57 to $10.72 per hour, or from just over $17,800.00 to some $20,200.00 per year. However, a CNA Salary with twenty or more years experience will average $10.49 to $14.46 per hour, or from some $21,800 to just over $30,000.00 per year. Further, according to CNA Salary projections, the median annual bonus for a CNA is second highest for those with less than one year experience (about $200.00) and highest for those with twenty or more years experience at some $240.00. However, the CNA Salary bonus is greatest from employers with 1 - 9 employees and those with more than twenty thousand employees. Geography plays a role in salaries as, in general, the higher the cost of living for a given geographic area, the greater the salaries in that area. Also, these figures don't represent the value of benefits. Finally, additional certification, such as an advanced certificate, can provide additional remuneration to the CNA's Salary.
With the United States population aging and living longer, healthcare will continue to grow. The United States Department of Labor forecasts a 21.7% increase in health services occupations overall. With such an increase ,especially in assisted care and long term care facilities, the need for CNA's quite simply will not abate. Indeed, according to healthcare-trainingcenter.com, CNA's comprised some 1.4 million people in 2004 and job growth is expected to be at least 21% through 2014 with an additional half million jobs openings. ALso look into a career as a Medical Assistant or even work as a Phlebotomist if you are looking for a larger salary.
CNA Review
CNA Review
Now that you completed CNA training, certification is just an exam away. The CNA certification test does vary from state to state, so it’s a good idea to do some research and become familiar with the test before you take it and do some good CNA Review exercises. The Internet can give you information about the written portion, as well as the clinical demonstrations you’ll be asked to perform. You might be asked to bring a model so you can demonstrate clinical skills.
The written section of the exam is nothing new. The questions require common sense answers, which are found in the review book. If you don’t have a review book, you can find one on the Internet. The clinical part of the exam can be a little nerve racking. Most people who take the test are nervous and the state examiner is aware of that and understands.
The practical section of the test is a demonstration of three to five CNA Nursing Assistant skills. You’ll be asked to perform these skills following the protocol you learned in class. The first skill will be the hand washing procedure. The correct hand washing procedure is detailed in the review book and should be followed as it is written. Privacy is another key portion of the exam. Be sure to knock on the patient’s door before you enter a room. Even when you’re in the bathroom demonstrating the hand washing procedure it’s a good idea to knock on the bathroom door when you’re finished. Dignity is always important so knocking as well as pulling the privacy curtain closed are important and so is introducing yourself and explaining why you're there. Use a professional manner and avoid personal terms like Dear, Honey and Sweetie when your taking the exam.
Safety is another important exam issue. Make sure you apply a gait belt when you perform a transfer and if you raise the bed while performing care, lower it when you’re finished. Make sure the call light can be reached by the patient and always lock the wheels of a wheelchair before you help a patient in or out of it. Some of the other skills you could be asked to perform are: Giving a bedpan, repositioning a patient in bed, taking a temperature, grooming and performing an occupied bed, complete bed change. You already know how to do these things; it’s just a matter of executing what you already know in front of the state examiner in order to begin this rewarding career.
CNA course , CNA courses
CNA Courses
A certified nursing assistant, commonly referred to as a CNA can be a very rewarding and fulfilling career. Many agencies employ CNA's, such as hospitals and long term care facilities. Becoming certified as a nursing assistant will however, require that the individual take a state approved course and successfully pass a written and performance exam in his or her state. The requirements of the CNA course will often vary by the individual state but all programs prepare the student in some common areas.
The length of a cna course is dependent upon several factors. Many can be as little as four to six weeks. However, some institutions may offer advanced nursing assistant courses and these tend to last longer, usually a single semester. In some states, this allows the successful graduate of the class to administer limited injections, give certain medications, and to practice some phlebotomy. Once again, this will depend on the area in which the CNA is practicing and the courses completed.
The goal of the program is to teach the student to perform basic nursing care. This usually includes taking vital signs, making beds, assisting the resident or patient with activities of daily living, and education about pathogens. Learning proper hand washing techniques and preventing the spread of disease and illness is incorporated throughout the program from day one. This is one of the most important aspects of the CNA course. Most training is hands on and clinical hours are required. Transportation to and from the facility and uniforms are generally not included in the cost of the CNA courses.
In addition to hands on training, there is typically other types of instruction implemented. This usually comes from a workbook or other state approved text. Professionalism, scope of practice, and many other aspects of nursing assistant work is covered. This part of the students education is equally important as the hands on component. This will cover what the CNA can and can not legally do, rights and responsibilities of both the employee and the patient/resident, and how to appropriately handle situations that can and do arise within the health care setting.
After successful completion of the CNA training, the individual is eligible to take the state exam. Only after passing this exam can the person be listed on the state registry and/or become state certified. The nursing assistant competency exam usually consists of both a written and performance component. Those who have completed an approved CNA course should expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $100 to take this exam. Once again, this cost is not included in the course. However, some employers will pay for or reimburse the student for the exam. Results are usually mailed anywhere from two to six weeks after the test has been taken and those who have passed are placed on that particular state registry.
Free CNA classes, free CNA Training Programs
Free CNA classes offered throughout the country
With so many individuals living to be past their 70’s there is a dire need for Certified Nursing Assistant throughout the country. It has been discovered that the average lifespan of an American individual has changed over the last 15-20 years from an individual living to be in their mid 70’s, to now upwards in their mid 80’s to 90‘s. Many of these individuals may be placed in nursing homes as a way to effectively manage and monitor their daily living activities, but nursing homes are not for everyone.
Many elderly individuals prefer having the comfort and privacy of living in their own homes, while at the same time obtaining the well trained care of a CNA. If you have a soft spot in your heart for the elderly as well as a compassionate and giving nature then this would be the ideal career for you. There are a number of different ways to obtain free training to become a CNA.
One of the free CNA training programs that is made available nationwide depends on where you live. Many health organizations, hospitals, or nursing homes offer free training for those who apply and meet their qualifications. Usually the minimum requirements are only a high school diploma or GED. If you are looking for a career as a CNA, you can also check your local newspaper as well. Many agencies are looking to recruit people for the CNA training classes and will do so at no cost to you.
Unity Health System is limited to the Western New York area and has free CNA training classes as well as job opportunities in and around the Rochester New York area. This organization offers free training to qualified individuals to become a CNA. The only qualifications needed is a High school diploma, the ability to read and write in proper English, as well as the ability to lift 40 lbs or more. What is great with this organization is that if you meet all of the above requirements they will give you a free 2 week training course and even pay you after you have successfully completed the program. They will also help you find a job after your CNA training is complete.
Another agency in New York and in New York City is the Department of Education. Many times they have free CNA training programs for individuals looking to pursue this as a career.
The last organization that offers free training are offices across the country called The Office of Adult and Continuing Education. This type of training is usually either state or government funded, which means you won’t have to spend any money to obtain training.
If you do your research on any or all of these organizations you will more then likely find at least one of them currently offering free CNA classes or will have one taking place in the not so distant future. By pursuing a career as a CNA you will have a very fulfilling and rewarding career.
CNA to LPN classes
CNA to LPN
Deciding to advance from being continue your education from CNA to LPN will require approximately one year of college courses at an accredited LPN school. The salary increase for moving on to becoming an LPN is usually quite a bit higher then what the average CNA earns. As a CNA you more then likely had an LPN or RN as your supervisor. Whereas CNA's are only allowed to give a certain amount of care to the patient, LPN's have a greater amount of responsibility. LPN's are in high demand in the work force. There are many job offers for LPN's due to the rising number of elderly patients that need care that an LPN can provide.
If you are currently working as a CNA you can continue to work at your regular job while attending classes in the evening. To take LPN courses you will usually need a high school diploma or GED and a clean background record. If you have experience working as a CNA it will make the course easier because you will be much more familiar with general medical terminology and the basics of hands-on nursing skills. Attending classes for the LPN license will teach you the practical knowledge you will need to be successful as a working LPN. You will have in-class work along with a clinical course where you can practice your new skills under the guidance of your teacher who is usually an RN. Much like the training you received as a CNA the hands-on training part of the courses are extremely important. The LPN classes usually consist of studying topics such as anatomy, pharmacology, physiology and geriatric care. You will also study subjects such as pediatrics, CPR and first aid, nutrition, psychiatric's and more.
When you decide to advance from CNA to LPN you will need to find a program or school and apply for an opening. You will need to check to make sure you have all the requirements needed to attend the classes. Just as in CNA classes each state differs on their requirements for becoming an LPN. Once you complete the course work you will take a state exam which includes four main categories on what you have learned in class. You will be required to pass this test before you can earn your state license.
Going from working as a CNA to a LPN will not be a drastic change for you due to the fact that you are already experienced in patient care. Although you will have more responsibilities as an LPN the raise in pay is a benefit that makes it worth the extra effort. As a CNA you have already learned that all health care providers need to be patient and compassionate care givers. You also need to be in excellent health and of sound mind. Nursing on any level can be quite stressful unless you learn to be very professional in the care you give to patients.
Just as when you worked as a CNA, being an LPN means you will need to be quick thinking in case an emergency situation arises. Changing careers from CNA to LPN is a wise choice that you will reap the benefits from in the long run. Although attending school to become a CNA training is much shorter in length then it is for LPN training it is still a good idea to go one more year to enable yourself to become an LPN. Being an LPN may allow you to be employed at a much higher rate of pay in a facility that you choose yourself. If you would like to work in a specialty care area the extra on the job training is available at most places of employment.
CNA License | CNA Certification
CNA License, Certified Nursing Assistant License
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), is also called by some other titles, patient Care Assistant (PCA), State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA), or Nursing Assistant-Registered (NA/R). No matter what they are called, they do the same thing, basic nursing procedures under the supervision of a Registered or Licensed Practical Nurse. To do this anywhere in North America today you need to get a CNA License
. This allows employers to verify experience and knowledge.
Schooling to obtain a CNA license is a minimum of 75 hours and a minimum of 16 hours of clinical training. This involves mastering a set of basic skills to care for patients in both long-term care facilities and in home settings. This would include things such as feeding, transfers, vital signs, patient rights, oral hygiene, toileting, infection control, range of motion exercises, bathing and assistance with walking. You will also need good interpersonal skills and be a team player.
The nursing shortage has unfortunately added to the turnover rate in the profession right now, but the nursing shortage also provides more jobs for CNAs.
Many schools will also help you to attain your GED if you have not completed high school. Regulations naturally vary from state to state but most all of the programs offer a CNA certification exam, which gets you your CNA License. This allows you to work under the direction of a nurse in state or federally certified nursing home, hospice, home care agency, hospital or group home. Most employers will do a criminal background check.
There are differences in what type of healthcare facility you choose to work as a CNA. In the hospital, your interaction with patients is limited to the time that they are there. In long term care facilities where "residents" stay much longer, sometimes years and years, you will get to know your patients really well. If you like variety this may not be the choice for you.
Entry-level CNA salary is between $20,000 and $30,000 while more experienced ones earn between $35,000 and $40,000. Job prospects for those with a CNA License are expected to remain excellent because of the aging baby boomer population.
Once you complete school and pass a written and practical test, you will have your CNA license. This will remain current as long as you work at least 8 hours for pay, doing CNA responsibilities in a two-year period. If you have a break of five or more years your license/certificate will expire and you will have to retake the CNA course. For more particulars on schooling and requirements, contact the State Nurse Aide Registry or State Licensing Board in your home state