A guide to CNA programs

Working as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) is one of the ways to enter the healthcare field. CNA programs are among the various online sites that facilitate the training of potential nursing assistants. Find out more about CNA programs in this article.

CNA - Work option in the service industry

According to the United States Department of Labor (USDL), the increasing elderly population will result in "more than 1.1 million new jobs" related to healthcare. This figure comprises "4.1 million, or 14 percent" of the projected employment rate, making the service industry "both the second-largest numerical gain and the second-largest growth rate among the major occupational groups." Certified Nursing Assistant - A healthcare job Employment related to health, beauty and fitness, such as those in cosmetic and health spas, is set to increase in the coming years. The same goes to personal care and service group, composed mostly of "personal and home care aides, and child care workers". The USDL further notes that "most jobs are in nursing and residential care facilities and in hospitals." These pertain to nursing aides and home health aides, both of which are described as direct care workers who look after their patients on a long-term basis. Nursing assistance - Various tasks of patient care Professional nurses and doctors supervise nurse aides who "provide hands-on care and perform routine tasks..." They assist patients in their nutritional and hygiene needs. Moreover, nursing assistants record patients' body "temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate, or blood pressure." They also notify nurses and doctors of changes in the patients' behaviours and physical health, among many other duties. The USDL cites nursing assistants or aides as "the principal caregivers" in hospital and home care facilities, due to their significant interaction with patients and/ or residents. This kind of contact helps to "develop positive, caring relationships..."

The CNA programs

To prepare for a career as a CNA, online sites like Cnaprograms.net offer short-term programs with academic and practical requirements. A student needs to pass competency exams to finish the course. Each CNA graduate "is placed on the state’s registry of CNAs, which provides proof that he or she has completed a training program." Courses under CNA programs Learning institutions like technical schools and community colleges serve as venues of CNA programs that run "from one to six months..." Courses offered include anatomy and physiology, nutrition, personal cares skills, infection control, and resident rights. Benefits of online CNA programs Aside from convenience, taking CNA courses online is more affordable compared to going to a traditional school. Staying at home and using the internet helps to lessen other educational costs, such as books and transportation. Visit Cnaprogram.net for more information.