CNA Career Guide

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Overview

If you’ve always enjoyed caring for others, becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) could be your ideal career. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the demand for nursing assistants will grow by 5% through 2031, with 220,000 job openings each year. Take advantage of the growing demand for CNAs and start your healthcare career in a field you’re passionate about.

A CNA is a healthcare professional who provides direct patient care and assists nurses and other members of the healthcare team. They often help patients perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as eating, bathing, grooming and dressing. CNAs also transfer and reposition patients and perform housekeeping duties, such as changing linens and stocking supplies. Checking vital signs and updating patient records are usually also a part of their daily activities.

CNAs provide hands-on care that doesn’t require extensive knowledge of medical science. They help ensure patients are well-fed,

Education

To get a CNA job, you must complete a state-approved training course after obtaining your high school diploma or the equivalent. Community colleges, hospitals and nonprofit organizations like the Red Cross frequently provide approved training programs.

The length of CNA training programs varies by state. However, federal laws require that they include at least 16 hours of hands-on care. Most programs last a month or less.

Qualifications

CNA

Certifications

Licensing

Related certifications

The credentials you need to land CNA jobs depend on where you intend to work. Each state establishes its own set of requirements. However, all states require CNAs to obtain some type of CNA certification or license.

Typically, completing a state-approved training program is the first step to certification. In 13 states and four territories, nursing assistants take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program exam, which includes a written or oral test and a skills demonstration. All other states have their own examinations, but most also consist of written/oral and skills testing.

In addition to passing an exam, CNAs must apply for a license or certificate through their state’s agency. Typically, a background check with fingerprinting is necessary. Prospective CNAs also need to pay one or more fees.

Once you gain certification or licensing, you must renew your credential once every 2 years. Most states mandate that CNAs complete a minimum number of

Skills

CNAs need a strong skill set to perform their job duties well. Some desirable qualifications and traits for CNAs include:

Service-oriented mindset. A desire to help people should be a driving motivator, as direct patient care is a large part of a CNA’s job duties.
Active listening. CNAs must pay close attention to what patients and other healthcare team members say and ask probing questions to confirm understanding.
Basic computing skills. CNAs may use medical records, spreadsheets, email and health facility software on the job.
Attention to detail. CNAs must pick up on small cues indicating a patient may have additional needs they can’t express.
Ability to work well under pressure. Should emergencies arise, CNAs must make quick decisions and respond efficiently and effectively.
Reading comprehension. CNAs must be able to read and understand written instructions.
Coordination. CNAs need dexterity and coordination to use medical equipment like blood pressure monitors and stethoscopes.
Ability to work as a team. CNAs often take directions from nurses and other

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Responsibilities

CNAs are responsible for providing direct patient care and supporting healthcare teams. Some of their specific job responsibilities include:

Daily Patient Care: CNAs assist patients with ADLs such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting and feeding. They help patients maintain personal hygiene and ensure their comfort and well-being.
Vital Sign Monitoring: CNAs regularly measure and record vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, pulse rate and respiration rate. They report any significant changes to the nursing staff.
Mobility and Ambulation: CNAs assist patients in moving, transferring and repositioning to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers and promote mobility. They may use assistive devices or provide support during ambulation.
Assisting with Medical Procedures: CNAs help with various medical procedures, such as collecting specimens, performing basic wound care, assisting with catheter care and administering basic treatments under the supervision of registered nurses.
Patient Observation and Reporting: CNAs observe and report any changes in patients' physical or mental condition to

Salary Insights

Salary guide

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.

CNA

$1,062-1,204/week

The average salary for a CNA is $1,138.99 per week.

Last updated on March 21, 2025. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Benefits of Being a CNA:

Job Availability and Stability: CNAs are in high demand due to the continual growth of the nation’s aging population and the need for long-term care services. This high demand translates into greater job security and opportunities for employment in various healthcare settings.
Quick Entry into the Healthcare Field: Becoming a CNA typically requires a shorter training period compared to other healthcare professions. This condensed time frame allows individuals to enter the healthcare field relatively quickly and gain hands-on experience in patient care.
Rewarding and Meaningful Work: CNAs have the opportunity to positively impact patients’ lives. They provide direct care and support, helping patients with their basic needs and offering emotional support during challenging times. The ability to help others can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
Career Advancement Opportunities: Working as a CNA can serve as a stepping stone to further career advancement in the healthcare field. Many

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