Finding a job in these days of rampant unemployment can be difficult. A popular way of beginning a new career path is to find a field in which you can take classes online, and learn at your own pace. If this sounds like you, perhaps you might consider becoming a CNA.
The acronym CNA stands for Certified Nursing Assistant. There is demand for CNAs all over the country, As a CNA you will be able to find work whether you live in a big city or a small town. The only thing you may have to do after becoming a CNA is update your certification for any new state you move to.
This is just the beginning of the advantages of choosing to become a CNA. This is not a boring nine-to-five job; rather, it is a life-changing career. Many employers of CNAs offer medical and dental benefits and are very generous with their continuing education reimbursements.
You can also choose to use your CNA as a sort of stepping stone. CNA certification will provide you with job opportunities that can lead to career upgrades including obtaining an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) or RN (Registered Nurse).
To begin on your new career, you will have no trouble finding classes to become a CNA. Some classes are fee-based, some are not – you can go to a school near you – and you can actually complete your training in a relatively short period of time. Even better, you can work at home online.
This program takes about 75 hours to complete. About two-thirds of this training is done in a classroom, the rest is hands-on. When all the training is complete, you fill out a State Board of Nursing form that will be provided by the instructor.
There are, in total five steps to becoming a CNA. You will first undergo a personality assessment. Suitability for nursing includes having an interest in helping people, and the patience to do so. The desire to become a frontline member of a healthcare facility is necessary. As you may well know, patients see assistants and nurses much more often than they do doctors. It is up to this support staff to be friendly, accurate and helpful.
Your training will also include volunteering at a local hospital. Your volunteer duties will provide you with the full range of what you can expect as an employee at a healthcare facility. Your performance here will be assessed, and will be a good indication of your suitability to becoming a CNA.
Completing the coursework of the CNA Training Program is the fourth step. Standards of care, as well as patient rights, and your responsibilities will be indicated. You will also be taught how to use basic medical equipment and how to perform daily care procedures.
Finally, you will take your state Exam for CNA certification, and the sky will be the limit!
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