What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant is a part of a health care team working in either a hospital, nursing facility, or in a home environment. The CNA works under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), the CNA does the “grunt work” providing hands-on nursing care to patients, residents, clients and customers in a variety of health care settings.

CNAs typically provide assistance with bathing, dressing, eating, toileting and oral care to people who cannot do these tasks alone. Also, the CNA is also asked to record vital signs, weights and height measurements.

CNAs work in: Nursing Homes, Home Health Care Agencies, Assisted Living Facilities, Hospitals, Hospices, Doctors’ Offices, Day Care Center, Schools, Medical Clinics, and Urgent Care Centers.

How to Get Started to Become a CNA

Training to become a certified nurse’s aide (CNA) or nursing assistant can be done through an employer-sponsored program in as little as 8 to 12 weeks, or by attending adult education programs at a local community college for a semester. State-approved training programs must be a minimum of 50 hours of theory and 100 hours of supervised clinical training.

You must have a GED or a high school diploma before starting any CNA program.

When you are ready, you must also take and pass a state-administered CNA certification test. This will include a comprehensive exam as well as a hands-on demonstration of skills used in working with a patient, such as making an occupied bed, etc.

Each state has its own rules and regulations. You must take the exam and be certified in the state you plan to work in.