BP Human resource management

A CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) works with Registered Nurses (RN's) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN's)in a hospital or other health facilities to provide basic needs care for many patients daily. To work in this capacity, you would have to complete the training requirements and certification process.

Depending on the type of facility you are working at, your patients may be elderly, disabled or in the recovery phase between hospital and home. Your job as an aide is an important part of helping the patients to heal, feel good about themselves and supply daily help however needed. Part of this involves taking blood pressure readings, taking temperatures and other clinical tests to chart for the nurses.

A lot of nurses started as CNA's prior to going to nursing school, as it is an excellent way to gain experience and get your foot in the door of the medical field. This is a very rewarding field to be in, even if you don't want to go on and become a nurse, as your skills will help you to be successful. Helping people can be very satisfying and your contributions are valued by many.

Most CNA training takes between four and six weeks to complete, then you take the certification test through the state board before you can start working as an aide. Even though your job is as an aide, you are still a value to the team aspect of caring for patients, and that is definitely appreciated.

There are several places you can obtain the necessary training, the best of which include retirement/skilled nursing homes and hospitals. Many will offer free or reimbursed training for your agreement to work at their facility for a set amount of time to protect their investment for training you for free or at a reduced cost.

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage for a certified nursing assistant is anywhere from $10-$14 per hour, with overtime possible in many situations, due to the high demand in all nursing areas.

Your job as a certified nursing assistant will keep you in high demand as the population ages, as there will always be a need for health care. Job security is yet another reason to consider a career in this field, especially in this age of a tough economy.