Your Career as a Certified Nursing Assistant
Is a career as a CNA right for you?
Description of the Nursing Profession for CNAs: CNAs provide basic patient care under the direction of nursing staff, performing duties such as feeding, bathing, dressing, and transferring patients. They also may take patients' vital signs and report observations to the nursing staff.
Potential Salaries or Income for CNAs:The median annual wage for CNAs was around $30,830 in 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Salaries can vary based on the work setting and geographic location.
Education or Training for CNAs:CNAs require completion of a state-approved education program, which typically includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. Programs are offered at community colleges, technical schools, and sometimes in high schools or hospitals.
Sought-after Certifications or Accreditations for CNAs: After completing an accredited program, CNAs must pass a state competency exam to become certified. Some may pursue additional certifications in areas like gerontology or psychiatry to enhance their qualifications.
Time and Money Investment for CNA Education/Training: CNA programs can be completed in as little as 4-12 weeks. Costs vary but typically range from $400 to $1,200, which may include tuition, textbooks, and supplies.
Best Places for Education or Training for CNAs: Community colleges, vocational and technical schools, and some hospitals and nursing homes offer CNA programs. These programs usually take 4-12 weeks to complete.
Schools or Organizations Offering Certifications for CNAs: State boards of nursing or health regulate CNA certification. Many community colleges, The American Red Cross and other healthcare educational organizations also offer CNA training programs.
Long-term Outlook for CNAs: The demand for CNAs is expected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations, largely due to the aging population and increased need for long-term care facilities.
Pros and Cons of a Career as a CNA:
· Pros: Short training period, high demand for CNAs, opportunities to work in various settings such as
nursing homes, hospitals, and home health care, the rewarding nature of providing direct patient care, and
experience that could be helpful if you decide to advance in a nursing career.
· Cons: Physically demanding work, relatively low pay compared to other healthcare professions, risk of
injury, and potential for emotional strain from working with ill and elderly patients.
