CNA Training Classes

Healthcare is one of the few career paths that has shown a steady growth despite the economy. If you have ever had a desire to work in healthcare now is the perfect time to get started. One aspect of the healthcare field is certified nursing assistant. Becoming a CNA will provide you with a firsthand look at the various careers in healthcare. Many people have started out as CNAs and then went on to become nurses, x-ray technicians and even doctors. The possibilities are endless. However, first you must learn more about surviving CNA training.

CNA training classes last for about 6-12 weeks. Before you apply for a CNA training program you will need to have a high school diploma or a GED. You must also be able to pass a background check. If you meet these two requirements then you can apply for certified nursing assistant training classes.

It is important that you understand what you will be required to do as a certified nursing assistant. You will be on the front line of patient care. A CNA is responsible for bathing, feeding and dressing patients who Cannot do it themselves. A nursing assistant must possess great assessment skills, so they can report anything abnormal to the nurse. For example, if a nursing assistant is bathing a patient and notice the patient having trouble breathing this should be reported right away.

CNA training will consist of classroom work where you will learn more about human anatomy and physiology. These classes will teach basic nursing assessment skills such as abnormal and normal vital signs. Nutrition is an important part of the classroom because good nutrition is the basis of good health.

Another aspect of CNA training classes is the hands on practice. You will be able to practice skills such as taking blood pressures, bathing patients, bed making and handling infectious wastes. This training will take place in a laboratory setting with practice dummies. CNA classes will also have clinical times in which you will spend time in a healthcare facility to actually perform the skills you have learned under the supervision of your clinical instructor. Once you have successfully completed all classroom and clinical requirements you will be ready to take the certified nursing assistant exam.

To survive CNA training classes you must be observant and patient. You will be dealing with a variety of situations every day. You also have to be able to lift and be on your feet all day. This is a very physical job and you cannot have any type of physical impairment.

Becoming a certified nursing assistant can be a stepping stone to bigger and better things in the healthcare field. However, many individuals find they love being CNA because of the close contact they have with the patients. If you think this sounds like a good fit for you then do some research and find a great CNA training program close to you.

By Lucinda Reynolds, RN
For many individuals, the road to a healthcare career starts with becoming a certified nursing assistant. CNAs are a very important part of the healthcare team, since they are the ones that are in the closest contact with patients. CNAs are known as the eyes and ears of the healthcare team. A well trained observant certified nursing assistant may actually save a few lives. If you are considering a career as a certified nursing assistant then you need to begin by choosing a good CNA school.

There are several things to look for in a CNA school. The following list can help you determine if the school you are considering is a good choice.

1. Accreditation

Accreditation is a process by which a school is evaluated. Accredited schools must meet specific guidelines and adhere to a higher standard of quality set forth by a governing body composed of peers. Accreditation is important because it is a good indicator of a quality education. You must attend an accredited school if you want to sit for the licensing exam. Read the rest of this entry »

Certified nursing assistants are an integral part of the healthcare team. A nursing assistant is often called the eyes and ears of the nurses and doctor because they spend so much time with the patients. They are the first ones to notice is something is not right. If you have ever thought about getting into the healthcare field you may want to start out as a certified nursing assistant. Read on to learn more about nurse aide training.

Nurse aide training classes will be interesting, and they may be challenging. You will learn the basics of anatomy and physiology. You will study the different parts of the human body and what these parts do. This class will teach you how disease and illness can affect the body and what to look for when caring for a patient. Read the rest of this entry »

According to 2011 data from PayScale.com, salaries for a certified nurse assistant (CNA) range from $18,000 to $35,000 or more, depending where you live and work. A starting hourly rate for a CNA is generally between $9 to $12 per hour. The longer you work in the field, the more you earn. CNAs with less than a year’s experience earn $9 to $11 per hour; CNAs with 10 years’ experience earn $10 to $13 per hour; CNA’s with 20 years or more of experience can earn $15 or more per hour.

CNAs work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living and mental health facilities, as well as private homes. The salary for a certified nurse assistant can vary depending on where he or she works and the type of care he or she provides. According to Indeed.com, the average salary of a CNA working at a correctional facility is Read the rest of this entry »