A Certified Nursing Assistant or a CNA is a nursing position in the healthcare industry. A CNA job is an entry-level position that works directly under the Registered Nurse (RN). You will work directly with patients to provide many physical tasks for their care. Your responsibilities are a necessary part of the nursing process. You can work in a hospital setting, nursing home, office, or at-home setting. Your role as a CNA may look different depending on your scenery, but your responsibilities will typically function the same.
What are the Job Responsibilities of a CNA?
As a CNA, you will lift and move patients that suffer from immobility by grooming, bathing, and transporting them. Checking vital signs like blood pressure and heart rate will also be your responsibility. You will also have to document all medical information. You are responsible for feeding and taking care of wounds on your patients. It’s your job to gather and stock medical supplies. You will be a front-line caregiver, responsible for answering patient calls to discuss their needs and care. Maintaining the patient’s room will also be in your job description. You must provide clean bed linens and a safe living area. Sometimes you will need to assist nurses or doctors during medical procedures.Â
A CNA position is often a demanding job that will have you on your feet all day. You will experience trauma firsthand and often might have challenging patients. The cost of these experiences could affect your mental and physical health. Luckily, most employers work with their CNAs to increase job satisfaction. Therefore, there are many other reasons why becoming a CNA might be right for you. Here are five of those reasons.
Why Become a CNA?
Affordability
If you desire to become a caregiver but struggle with nursing degree requirements, a CNA job is the most affordable option. You can begin working as a CNA fast by completing free courses through non-profits like the red cross. There are many options to complete continuing education courses free through your employer.
Job Security and Demand
The demand for nursing assistant jobs is higher than ever before. With an exploding elder population, nursing homes and long-term care facilities are continually hiring CNAs. This position offers job security through competitive wages. You can expect to make around $30k yearly working in Pennsylvania as a CNA.
Diversity and Career Development
When you work as a CNA, it’s easier to get into nursing programs. You already have a grasp of the healthcare industry and experience caring for patients. Continuing your education can give you access to LPN and RN positions. Career development doesn’t stop there, and you can go further by studying administration, becoming a nurse practitioner or nurse educator. This entry-level position can be the start of a very fulfilling career.
Flexibility
Caregiving is a 24/7 requirement, and as a CNA, you will have the option to work what hours you want when you want. There are part-time, full-time, and per diem positions for CNAs. You can work daytime or nighttime hours. This includes weekends and holidays.Â
Also, as a CNA, you can choose your health care setting. If you are happier working in a hospital, then you can apply for those positions. If you have been working in a hospital and need a change of pace, you can switch to a nursing home. Employers are aware of compassion fatigue and the need for nurses to practice self-care.
Rewarding and Impactful
CNAs essentially provide patients with all of the care that they cannot complete on their own. You are a companion to these patients while their families are away. Your dedication makes an impact and saves lives. You can live with pride and accomplishment knowing that you have helped the world become a better place.
Become a CNA Today
CynaMed wants to assist you as you begin your nursing journey. We have representatives standing by to match you with the perfect nursing position based on your availability, experience, and skill set. Contact us today.
