If you have are moved by compassion and have a strong aspiration to help people, than a position as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) can be very rewarding field for you. That's not to say that it will be a easy field, because it's not. Many times new CNAs will feel intimidated and overwhelmed by the demands, quick-pace and workload that comes with being a nursing assistant. If you have a great deal of compassion, you will be much better to adapt to the stress that comes with this work.
Yet if you are looking for "just a job" you will be doing yourself and the patients a big disservice and most likely will not succeed. The CNA field needs individuals who have maturity, confidence and patience. Being a team-player and good social skills will also take you far in this industry. Also keep in mind that depending on where you apply you may be required to submit a criminal background check and drug test.
To train as a CNA will need to receive training. There are many different names that can mean the same as CNA, such as patient care technicians, home health aides, orderlies and nurses' aides. So keep this in mind because depending on where you live, the school, course, or position may be listed under another name other than CNA.
Generally you can expect your CNA course to last anywhere between 6-12 weeks and some schools have courses up to 6 months long. If you do some research you may find nursing homes that will either offer "paid while you learn" courses or they may offer free classes. These classes will not require you to have any healthcare experience. Then you have classes you can take at a community college, trade school or medical facility and tuition for these classes can be between $300-$600.
It is also better to enroll with the programs that have longer and more extensive training, so this way you are prepared when you enter the job market. Hands-on-training will be most vital part of your training and if you are comfortable and skilled in this area, you will be good to go once you graduate.
Though before you are completely finished you must pass certification. While there are some jobs that will allow you to work 3-4 months after classes without certification, it is best to test when everything you learned is still fresh in your mind. Your test will contain a written portion and a clinical exam in which you will provide patient care to actual patients.
There are many places you can work; hospitals, nursing home, mental health facilities, assisted living facilities and private homes. You can also guarantee that you will always be able to find a job as a CNA. This type of work is not for everybody and there can be a high turnover in this field. Then coupled with the increasing aging populace - you will see the work is there. Starting salary can start at $19,000 and with years experience you can reasonably expect to salary increase of $35,000 or more.
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