10 Things to Know About CNA or Certified Nursing Aide

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Being a nurse is one of the toughest jobs in the industry. Imagine facing patients with different health issues from different background. No matter how toxic their shifts are, they are always ready to give the best care services in the world. Deciding on becoming a nurse is just an initial step in this profession. There is still a lot to know.


Some people think that nurses are just a doctor’s assistant as portrayed in some TV shows and movies. However, in reality, being a doctor’s assistant is just a super minute task that they can perform in a hospital. One type of nurse that has been gaining a lot of population recently is being a certified nursing aide. What is a Certified Nursing Aide or CNA? Here are 10 things that you should know about and being a Certified Nursing Aide.

• CNAs work directly under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN).

• A CNA is responsible for a patient’s basic needs. This refers to their need of getting good grooming. CNAs help their patients take a bath and dress up. Further, when the patient needs assistance in eating, a CNA can do the feeding.

• Recording patient’s vital signs. In a medical team, a CNA should be able to provide physicians these records when they do their rounds of visit.

• When patient soils the bed, CNAs are expected to clean it up. Making beds and keeping the room clean are part of their responsibility. This personal care with their patients can somehow help the patient’s faster recovery.

• Preparation of medical equipment is under their tasks. It is also their responsibility to store this equipment. When they have proper training, some CNAs are allowed to help perform minor medical procedures.

• CNAs also play the role of a counselor. They are most of the time with their patients; hence, listening to their patients creates a strong bond between them. Their exposure to their patients makes it possible for the medical team to create a good plan for a particular patient’s full recovery.

• Being a CNA is a good training ground. The experiences one gather with their patients help them become better CNAs.

• The pay for CNAs is not that overwhelming. Most CNAs are paid on an hourly basis. Also, the rate differs depending on the state you are working.

• CNAs usually work for nursing homes, home health care agencies, hospitals, doctor’s offices, and day care centers.

• Being a CNA can challenge you physically. There are many tasks to be completed in a day. It could not be a pretty job as you have to do a lot of cleaning for the patient. The important thing to provide better care quality to the patient is to understand not only their case but also their personality and behavior.

To be a certified nurse assistant, one must be physically fit to match the demands of the job. The job becomes easier when one gets accustomed to the major responsibilities. Though the pay is not that attractive, the experience one can get is exceptional and helpful in one’s career.

Nursing Career Guide: Three Things to Consider Before Signing the Employment Contract

As many would say, working as a nurse is a tough job. The need to face different patients from very diverse backgrounds is one task a nurse has to face every shift. With quite a number of nurses still looking for a job, being offered a job as a nurse can be overwhelming. However, do not be so excited in signing your contract. Remember that a contract binds you with the company’s rules and policies for certain years, so it is crucial that what is indicated on the contract is in your advantage. 

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Understanding the contract may take some time. Some people are very impulsive in signing up for a job without reading the terms. Though this is a good opportunity, certain problems might arise during your employment that could affect your professional career. Others are hesitant that they would sit and even consult their lawyers for legal consultation. Not all of us have this luxury, so it is better to find three most important things to consider before signing a contract.

Salary

Everyone works to earn money – the higher the pay, the better opportunity. Before signing a contract, do not hesitate to ask the employer about your salary. Nurses can both be paid on a monthly or hourly basis. You have to set it clear whether which of these are you getting paid on. Newly licensed nurses may not expect an above salary wage since they still have to get more experience. For those who have been in the industry for quite some time, it is just fair if you negotiate with your salary grade. Specialty clinics are often said to pay above average as well. When you work on an hourly basis, it can give you more flexibility since you can get extra pay with the extra hours you will be working.

Schedule Flexibility

Knowing the schedule of your shifts is crucial in signing a contract. Always consider your lifestyle and your schedules. If you are married and with children, working longer hours can be very difficult. Though there are different shifts available, it is still best to find a job that can give you at least a day off from work. Further, it is important if you have a good number of paid leaves at work. Vacation leaves are important for nurses as to take them away (for a few days) from the hustle of hospital work.

Education allowance

It will be better for nurses that they do not stop learning even though they are already professionals. Further, to maintain one’s license, one must undergo different courses. Licensing can cost an arm and a leg. With an education allowance in your contract, it will be a good option as your company values your work and your expertise in your field. Always go for a contract or employment that offers a higher allotment for continuing education allowance.

What nurses have to bear in mind is that before actually signing a contract, understand every single detail written on it. Every rule, policy, and offer should be fair with you. If you have trouble understanding your contract, it is best to seek legal help on this.