Who is a CNA?

CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT (CNA)

A CNA, or certified nursing assistant, is an entry-level member of a patient's healthcare team, performing important patient-centered tasks under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. Although CNAs are not nurses, they work very closely with nurses, physicians, and other healthcare providers. The CNA position is a great stepping stone to other healthcare professions. CNAs ensure their patients' well-being by performing various tasks that help with daily living activities. Because CNAs typically spend more time with patients than nurses or doctors, they are often the first to notice physical or emotional changes. For CNAs to practice, they must be supervised by registered nurses or licensed practical nurses because they are not legally responsible for the medical care of the patients. That said, CNAs are vital members of the nursing profession. CNAs work in various healthcare settings, including general and specialty hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living establishments, and rehabilitation facilities. Sometimes, their non-routine duties depend on where they work. CNAs are on the frontlines of providing primary patient care, making patients feel relaxed and calm, and seeing that their needs are met. To do these tasks well, CNAs must possess various skills and traits: Dependability, Compassion, Empathy, and Ability to Work in a Team. CNA pay can be as low as US$31050 or as high as US$62100. Jobs for these vital healthcare workers are projected to grow by 8% nationwide between 2020-2030, leading to more than 115,000 new openings by the decade's end.