What is a CNA?

One of the most rewarding careers in healthcare is that of a Certified Nurse Assistant or CNA. They are the backbone of our healthcare system. CNAs play a crucial role in providing direct care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and home care. They help patients bathe, dress and eat, and perform many other functions.?

Ultimately, they are the first line of hands-on patient care, working to enhance patient outcomes. That’s why at Cynamed we work hard to create the next generation of CNAs.?

How to Become a CNA

To become a CNA is an excellent career choice. This job is growing in popularity and more employment opportunities are popping up every day. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the CNA industry will increase by 8 percent from 2019 to 2029. This is considerably faster than other fields.?

All one needs is a high school diploma or its equivalent. However, there are rigorous testing requirements for CNAs, who must demonstrate proficiency in a wide range of areas. These include patient care, hygiene, privacy, ethics, technical clinical skills, and various other competencies.

CNA Training Programs

Most states offer a wide range of CNA training programs, which can typically be completed in as little as four to eight weeks. Training is also often available at community colleges, vocational and technical schools, and through organizations like the American Red Cross. Some hospitals and nursing homes offer free CNA classes to new employees, which can save on training.

If possible, it would be smart to find a state-accredited program that allows a candidate to start performing clinical hours before their coursework is finished. It is a good way to make the process of becoming a CNA even faster.

Working as a CNA

Certified nursing assistants may work in a variety of healthcare areas. Hospitals are great to start. The job security is also pretty stable, as working in a hospital usually is a full-time job. Yet, nursing homes and assisted living centers are the most common settings for CNAs. Usually, this healthcare area requires 24-hour care for patients which may result in long shifts.?

Home care is similar to assisted living centers in terms of pay and hours. A CNA will usually have only one patient to care for. This is usually not an entry-level position for a CNA because it requires some prior experience.??

About Cynamed

CynaMed works every day to change the perception of agencies with both employees and within healthcare facilities. If you are working in a healthcare organization and need qualified staff, reach out to us and experience the difference with our people.?