Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Jobs Overview

Certified Nursing Assistants (more commonly known as CNAs are crucial members of any healthcare team in both acute and post-acute settings. Under the supervision of an RN or an LPN, CNAs are responsible for hands-on care of patients including helping with daily living activities, checking vital signs, and in some cases, administering the medications that are important to the health and recovery of their patients.

There are more than 1 million people working as CNAs in the United States, and with a job growth outlook of 5% in the next 10 years, still more are needed. This can be a physically as well as an emotionally demanding job, but also incredibly rewarding for those who value direct interaction with patients and want to make an impact on people’s lives. You can find many current CNA jobs in locations across the country, and in all settings, by taking a look at our LTC job board.

CNA Education and Skills

To attain that CNA job, you’ll start by earning a high school degree or completing your GED. Each state has different requirements, but in general the next step is completing a nurse assistant training program that is approved by your state nursing board. These programs are available from community colleges, hospitals, or even online. The final step to is to pass the CNA certification exam. Each state’s test is a bit different, but it can include demonstrations of skills learned, plus written, and sometimes oral, sections.

During all your education, remember that you’ll also want to learn the soft skills that will best help your patients. Most employers would like their CNAs to be team players, have good attention to detail, be patient and compassionate, and be able to communicate clearly with patients, other caregivers, and the patient’s family.

CNA Resume/CV

Even if you are an experienced nursing professional, you’ll want to make sure your CNA resume is up to date and can display your skills and experience to their best advantage. Make sure your resume is properly formatted to include your job experience, degrees, certifications, and special skills.

CNA Salary and Benefits

Salaries for CNA jobs vary not just by state, but even by city. Variables affecting pay can include not just the cost of living in the metro area, but the need for nursing professionals as well.

In addition to salary, don’t forget to investigate what benefits and perks are available to you. Many employers will offer a wide range including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement accounts, bonuses, discount programs, paid time off etc.

Ways of Working

There are a lot of ways to work as a CNA. In addition to working full time in a hospital setting, you can work on contract or on a per diem basis, which allows you to pick up shifts as you choose. You may also consider whether you want to work in post-acute care like at an assisted living or other long-term care community where you can really get to know your patients.