The certified nursing assistant is also known as a CNA. CNA requirements for this health care provider in the United States are set by the individual states. The assistant will perform basic daily care tasks and work under the direction of nursing staff. The CNA is probably the health care provider who will have the most hands on contact with long term care professionals and is vital to assuring proper patient care.

Though the requirements of each state are individual there are certain consistent factors. To achieve their certification, a nursing assistant will usually attend classes which cover patient care, and precautions as well as basic CPR and movement techniques. In addition an examination is administered by the state which is necessary to become certified.

The examination is usually a comprehensive review of techniques and theory learned during the class. The first portion of the exam is a written test. The second portion is called a clinical exam where a nursing assistant demonstrates proper hand washing techniques and how to move and bathe patients.

The training courses and methods may vary slightly from state to state but the certification procedure is the same. The nursing shortage in the nation is critical and the CNA is subsequently overburdened due to this. However, on the bright side the shortage and high turnover in the profession also guarantee the committed professional a job.

Daily care tasks might include bathing and turning bed bound individuals. Delivering meal trays and feeding patients may be part of the job duties. Monitoring food trays and documenting a change in intake. The exception here might be for those persons on a strict intake and output regimen; in that case, a licensed nurse might be required to document the intake. Changing beds and in some states taking vital signs may be part of the duties of a certified nurse assistant.

The assistant will have to be in very good health with excellent back health. The job requires long hours of standing and they may also be required to move or lift patients who are unable to help themselves. Even with proper procedures observed this can be hard work and can put a strain on muscles.

A CNA will also need to be able to communicate in English fluently as well as be able to write. The job of a nursing assistant is challenging but can be very rewarding. The skills required for this job include the ability to empathize with the ill or elderly patient.

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