What Exactly is a Nursing Assistant Job?
A nursing assistant job involves providing basic medical care to patients in healthcare facilities. Nursing assistants are also known as nursing aides, patient care technicians, or certified nursing assistants. They typically work under the supervision of registered nurses and licensed practical nurses.
What Does a Nursing Assistant Do on the Job?
Nursing assistants carry out various tasks such as recording vital signs, assisting patients with bathing and dressing, helping patients get out of bed and move around, and monitoring patients’ health status. They also clean and sanitize medical equipment and patient rooms, serve meals to patients, and help patients with feeding.
Top 5 Skills for Nursing Assistant Jobs
- Compassion and empathy towards patients
- Good communication skills to interact with patients and healthcare professionals
- Physical stamina and strength to lift and move patients
- Attention to detail to monitor and record patient vital signs accurately
- Ability to handle stressful situations and work in a fast-paced environment
How to Become a Nursing Assistant
To become a nursing assistant, you need to complete a state-approved training program that typically lasts from four to twelve weeks. After completing the training, you need to pass a competency exam to obtain a certification in nursing assistant. Some states also require a criminal background check.
Average Salary for Nursing Assistants
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for nursing assistants is $30,850 as of May 2020. However, the salary can vary depending on the experience, education, and location of the nursing assistant.
Roles and Types of Nursing Assistant Jobs
Nursing assistants can work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare agencies. They can specialize in different areas such as psychiatric care, geriatrics, and rehabilitation.
Locations with the Most Popular Nursing Assistant Jobs in the USA
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, California, Florida, and Texas have the highest employment levels for nursing assistants in the USA. Other states with high employment levels include New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.
What are the Typical Tools Used in Nursing Assistant Jobs?
Nursing assistants use various tools such as blood pressure monitors, thermometers, stethoscopes, and electrocardiogram machines to record and monitor patient vital signs. They also use lifts and transfer equipment to move patients safely.
In Conclusion
Nursing assistant jobs are essential for providing quality medical care to patients in various healthcare settings. Becoming a nursing assistant requires completing a state-approved training program and passing a competency exam. Nursing assistants can specialize in different areas and work in different locations, with California, Florida, and Texas having the highest employment levels. The job requires various skills such as compassion, physical strength, and attention to detail, and involves using tools such as blood pressure monitors and lifts.