Certified nurse assistants (CNAs) provide care to patients, often in facilities such as nursing homes. They generally assist patients with basic needs, such as bathing, dressing, mobility, positioning, eating, and grooming, among other things. They often care for multiple patients who have a variety of health needs and personal abilities, so it is important for nurse assistants to be knowledgeable of the types of care which should be administered and sensitive to the needs of individual patients.

There are both full-time and part-time positions available for certified nurse assistants. Some may need to have flexible schedules, as it may occasionally be necessary to work nights and/or weekends, and strong customer service and people skills are important in order to help patients feel at ease. CNAs often work within large networks of medical providers, so communication with other staff is important in order to provide up-to-the-minute care for patients. When changes in patients' statuses are noted, CNAs should report these to the doctor or nurse in charge.

This job often requires great physical strength, as CNAs will be walking and standing for most of their shifts as they make rounds and tend to patients. The ability to lift heavy objects is important, as they often help patients from place to place. In addition to caring for patients, they should also ensure that the environment is clean and tidy by performing basic housekeeping tasks. Education, training, and current valid certification are required to become a certified nurse assistant. (Copyright 2018 PayScale.com)

Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Tasks

• Assists with direct patient care under the supervision of the RN or other medical professionals.
• Provide patients with help walking, exercising, and moving in and out of bed.
• Position, feed, bathe, dress and assist patients with grooming and other tasks.
• Observe patients' conditions, measure and record food and liquid intake and output and vital signs, and report changes to professional staff.