How to Become a CNA:
Beginner Certified Nursing Assistant's Guide

“The cancer has spread … there’s nothing else they can do…” “I had hoped to live long enough to see my grandson graduate…” “My wife wants me to move back home for the end… What do you think?”Every healthcare professional hears patients talk about their approaching death. Patients are usually aware of their condition. Sooner or later—and possibly more often than you expect—you’ll be caring for patients who are seriously ill. In fact, they ar ...

There’s an irony at all levels of health care: Doing what you love can also wear you out. Every medical professional is at risk for two career side effects: Caregiver Burnout and Compassion Fatigue.Most people who choose a career in health care do so because they are passionate about helping others. They want to be at the patient’s bedside, they want to cure illnesses, they want to make lives better. There is nothing better, right? But ...

As you study for the written portion of your CNA examination, you’re probably wondering if online practice tests cover the information that you need to know.The good news is that using online websites, such as CNA Plus, to prepare for your examination is a great method. The foundation of CNA training is based on solid principles of patient care. Every accredited CNA program provides the same information and clinical skills. No matter where yo ...

You did it! You finished your CNA classes and passed your CNA examinations! Now you’re ready to find a job and start your new career. These are the 10 most essential interview questions that employers often ask:Chances are that you’ve already had other jobs. You may already know how to fill out a job application and have read through the CNA job description. Besides being asked for the usual identifying information (name, address, phone nu ...

Lucky you! Not many people get the opportunity to “promote” themselves in their career. However, every nurse can choose to advance up the ladder. All it takes is a little planning … and some hard work.You can enter nursing at several levels. Your decision may be based on how much time or money you have, how quickly you need to get a job, what your family obligations are, or where you live. No matter the reason, each rung on the nursing l ...

One of the best things about being a health care professional is that you work as part of a team. Each team member has a different kind of education and expertise. It’s interesting and exciting to learn how each specialty contributes to providing excellent patient care.Let’s look at some of the specialists you’ll work with. All health care professionals are licensed by their state. Each position has specific educational requirements and un ...

One of the most critical responsibilities of all health care professionals is producing proper documentation, also called CNA charting. This is a clear and accurate method of keeping track of everything that happens to each patient. It is a part of the CNA job description and a way to communicate with other team members about the patient so the team can plan for and provide the best care.Documentation has other important functions, as we ...

For a new CNA, the concept of humor in health care may seem strange. After all, aren’t we there to provide tender, compassionate care to the sick and disabled? And we know the work is hard. How can there possibly be a place for laughter? There is little success where there is little laughter. ~ Andrew Carnegie It is not a recent innovation. Back in the thirteenth century, before there was anesthesia, surgeons used humor to keep their patients ...

What does a CNA do? A certified nursing assistant, also known as a nurse assistant or CNA, assists patients with various activities in hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities under the direction of a nurse in charge. CNAs often help people under their care with day-to-day activities such as bathing, toileting, dressing, etc. Certified nursing assistants also administer medications and maintain patient comfort and safety. What are some of th ...