What Does a Certified Nursing Assistant Do?

Students who want to become nursing assistants must have a high school diploma or equivalent. They will complete a state-approved certificate or diploma program that includes classroom instruction and supervised, on-the-job training.

A smart first step is to look for programs approved by your state’s nursing board and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accredited Commission (NLNAC). Without these stamps of approval, you may not be able to get financial aid or take the CNA exams that allow you to work.

Technical schools, community colleges, hospitals and nursing homes offer CNA programs. These programs may also lead to placements, where nursing assistants do additional training to get familiar with site-specific policies.

In these programs, students learn a wide variety of tasks including how to safely move patients, help patients bathe, take vital signs, how to work in different settings and how to care for common conditions.

Students must pass a state certification exam, which includes a written test and a clinical skills exam. Once nursing assistants pass the exam, they are listed on their state's registry, which is required for employment in some settings, such as nursing homes.

Rules vary by state for licensing, certification and even job title. However, even in states where certification isn’t required, it’s a smart way to prove to employers that you’ve mastered the skills needed to do the job.

CNA certification typically lasts two years and may require continuing education for renewal. Nursing assistants working on some states can also earn other credentials, such as Certified Medication Assistant (CMA), which is necessary to give medications. Additional credentials include CNA II, which allows a nursing assistant to work in a hospital.

If you want to advance in the medical field, there will be opportunities to reskill or upskill. You can build on the hands-on experience of a CNA to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN/LVN) and earn a good salary bump. From there, if you’re willing to work hard, you could become a registered nurse. 

The good news is there is opportunity no matter what career level feels like the best fit for you.

Some employers require a background check. Continuing education is common, but the rules vary by state. 

Most programs take from four to 12 weeks. 

They work in hospitals, nursing homes, doctors’ offices, clinics, hospice care centers, other medical settings and private homes.  This level of patient care is needed at all hours of the day. Night, weekend and holiday work is often required.

Job opportunities for nursing assistants and all types of nurses are growing fast. Demand for this job is strong, especially in home- and community-based settings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts at least 5% growth for nursing assistants and orderlies from 2021 to 2031. 

Being a nursing assistant also offers job flexibility. CNAs can work part-time or full-time in a variety of settings.

Successful CNAs tend to possess these traits: 

• Excellent communication skills
• Compassion
• Patience
• Physical stamina to perform routine tasks
• Possess a good understanding of medical technology
• Good problem-solving skills
• Ability to adapt and improvise