What is a Nursing Assistant and Their Role in the Medical Scale

CNAs are the basic level of medical personnel in the healthcare hierarchy, with the primary responsibility of providing primary patient care. What is a nursing assistant on the medical scale? This entry-level medical personnel role is a great way to get started in the healthcare industry. They provide a foundation for further education and professional growth.

With additional nursing education and training, these entry-level medical personnel can advance to become registered nurses (RN), licensed practical nurses (LPN), or other advanced practice registered nurses (APRN).

What Does a Nursing Assistant Do: The Scope of Duties

This role implies a massive chunk of work, including all patients’ basic needs. To answer the “What does a nursing assistant do?”, we will name the daily scope of duties for a CNA, which includes collecting and recording patient data and providing primary patient needs such as food, dressing, and bathing. Additionally, they ensure the movement and transportation of patients and monitor the implementation of doctors’ prescriptions for their assigned patients. Explore where do certified nursing assistants work to know more about their on-site duties, responsibilities, and salaries.

Is a nursing assistant the same as a nurse? Due to the complexity of the profession and the difference in education, an NR and a CNA are not the same profession. To become a nursing assistant takes a year of training to master basic knowledge, skills, and abilities. Registered nurses (RNs) have a more advanced medical education and training than CNAs and are responsible for advanced tasks, including assessing patient needs, diagnosing and treating illnesses, and prescribing medications.

Education Required for CNA

To take this primary role, you just need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Gaining nursing assistant certification does not require a lot of education. Many universities, colleges, and medical establishments offer programs that typically take about two years.

You must complete an appropriate training program and get your entry point in a healthcare career. After completing nursing assistant programs, you will receive a certificate allowing you to work as a CNA in most states.