Role of CNA in Pediatrics

Child care involves the responsibility of providing complete care to the children and monitoring their health condition. The age of the children ranges between 0 to 13 years of age. In order to specialize in pediatrics or child care, the CNAs need to fulfill the same requirements as that of a regular CNA. Candidates need to go through the state-approved CNA training and clear the CNA certification examination in order to become a Certified Nursing Assistant.

The pediatric nursing assistants are responsible for assisting the pediatricians as well as pediatric nurses in the treatment of children, and in the process of comforting the children while they undergo various medical procedures and different kinds of medical tests. The pediatric nursing assistants need to be patient as well as very empathetic towards children. The nursing assistants also need to possess good bedside mannerisms to be able to comfort the child and make them feel relaxed.

The pediatric nursing assistants have to report to the nursing supervisor or at times to the clinical unit manager for the various kinds of nursing assignments. These nursing assistants have to assist the children while dressing and grooming. They also have to check schedules as well as carry out certain types of clerical duties as and when required.

In order to perform the duties of a pediatric nursing assistant, candidates need to undergo an accredited CNA training course and clear the CNA examination to obtain the CNA certificate. There are several community schools as well as colleges that offer CNA training courses that are for a duration of about two years. The contents of the examination as well as other important details vary according to the state. Additional programs as well as certifications should be considered by candidates aspiring to become pediatric nursing assistants. Obtaining certifications in First Aid, Blood borne Pathogens as well as CPR would increase the chances of employment.

The CNA training programs are offered by many community schools and colleges as well as various health-care facilities. These training programs are approved by the state and consists of 75 hours of training including theoretical as well as practical or clinical sessions. CNAs who specialize in child care or pediatrics are known as CPNA, that is, Certified Pediatric Nursing Assistants. These pediatric nursing assistants are responsible for taking care of children in the health-care facilities and monitoring the health condition of the children.

While taking the formal CNA training, these candidates can also take part in various kinds of internship programs. This internship is likely to be conducted in a pediatric unit of a hospital or any day care center. Internships will help the pediatric nursing assistant to get familiar with their job responsibilities and get accustomed to the medical environment as well as to the duty of handling children.

Dealing with children is not very easy, and hence the pediatric nursing assistants need to possess excellent communication skills to be able to interact with the small children and understand their needs and requirements. The nursing assistants need to be composed at all times and handle the children in an effective manner. Children may hesitate or be reluctant to undergo the medical procedures. It is the duty of the pediatric nursing assistants to convince the children to take the treatment so that they are able to recover fast. These nursing assistant need to have a positive and cheerful attitude while interacting with the children so that the children feel good in their company.

The pediatric nursing assistants are also responsible for taking care of the daily needs of the children. They have to help the children with bathing, feeding, dressing and moving around. They also have to assist the children in performing various kinds of exercises. They have to measure and record the vitals of the children and carry out CPR testing. They have to maintain all the necessary records and document all the essential information and report the same to the senior nurses or the pediatricians. The children are sensitive, and hence the pediatric nursing assistants have to be very careful in dealing with them.

Hence, if you wish to pursue your career as a pediatric nursing assistant, you can start your search for employment in a pediatric unit of a hospital or any other health-care facility. The salaries earned by these nursing professional are quite decent. The average salary for pediatric nursing assistants ranges from $11-$12 per hour. The demand for these professional is also on the rise and hence it is an attractive career option.

The role of CNAs is pediatrics is quite challenging and needs to be fulfilled with great care and passion. You need a lot of patience while dealing with the small children which can be difficult at times. However, if you love children and are inclined towards the medical field, then becoming a pediatric nursing assistant may be the right job for you.

Private CNA Schools

The number of candidates who aspire to become Certified Nursing Assistants and pursue a career in the medical or healthcare field is rising, and hence there is also a significant rise in the number of schools offering the CNA training. It's a general perception that doing the CNA training from a school which is recognized by the state and is an accredited one is always better. However, you can always choose to pursue the CNA training from private CNA schools.

It is important that you pass the CNA certification test as this is one of the major criteria of becoming a CNA, irrespective of from where you have done the CNA training. So, whether the CNA school is an accredited one or it is a private CNA school, it does not really matter as long as you are clear the CNA certification exam. The situation varies from state to state. So, if your state just requires the CNA license for employment in the health-care sector and does not consider the school that you have taken the training from, you can go ahead and pursue the CNA training offered by private CNA schools.

Private CNA Schools 

The quality of the CNA training that is offered by private CNA schools does not vary much in comparison to the CNA training that is offered by accredited schools. You need to put in a certain number of hours for the CNA training, and the attendance needs to be really good as it is one of the mandatory requirements to complete the CNA training successfully. Both the theoretical as well as clinical or practical sessions need to be attended properly. The private CNA schools provide an internship to the candidates for practical sessions in a good health-care facility. The candidates need to ensure that they perform really well while on-the-job as their skills will be evaluated later for certification.

Besides completing the required amount of CNA training for the stipulated number of hours, you also need to ensure that your performance is good so that you are eligible to sit for the CNA certification examination. In case of private CNA schools, the training duration is much less as compared to the accredited CNA schools.

Short term course or crash courses are quite popular when it comes to private CNA schools. In such courses, the training duration is quite less and hence the fees are also relatively lower. In case of accredited CNA schools, the CNA training duration extends up to 6 months and the fees for the courses are also very high. These accredited schools follow the semester pattern for CNA training. So, candidates who are pressed for time and wish to complete the CNA training at a faster pace should definitely enroll for the CNA training that is offered by private CNA schools. Candidates who cannot afford the regular fees for CNA courses offered by the accredited schools can also enroll in private CNA schools where the fees are much lower.

Before you enroll yourself in any private CNA school, make sure that you take a close look at the quality of the CNA training that is provided by the school. You can also check if the school offers any placement assistance or helps you in getting the desired job in the healthcare field. Many private CNA schools do offer guidance for placement and you can definitely benefit from this facility by getting a lucrative job offer after successful completion of the CNA training and certification.

You can also look for some kind of feedback from the alumni of the private CNA school where you have made an application. You can ask the alumni about the training quality, the instructors or professors as well as the kind of placement assistance provided. Do enough research so that you are sure that you are enrolling in one of the good private schools and you are in safe hands as far as the CNA training is concerned.

You can get the required information on the list of private CNA schools from the Internet. You can also pay a visit to different schools to get the necessary information. Apart from this, you can ask other healthcare professionals about their recommendations of some private CNA schools.

Thus we see that there are many advantages of enrolling in a private CNA school. The quality of training remains the same as that of accredited schools and is not compromised on. The training duration is less as well the course fees are relatively lower. Hence, candidates get an opportunity to complete the CNA training at a faster pace and at a cheaper cost. So, after studying the pros and cons of different private CNA schools, you can definitely choose and enroll for one that provides the best CNA training so that you can have a successful career in the medical field.

Prevention of Back Injuries for CNAs

It has been noticed that there are several cases of back injuries in the nursing profession. CNAs are prone to back injuries while doing their jobs, and hence need to know the tips on prevention of back injuries to stay healthy and fit for the job.

CNAs come in direct contact with the patients on a regular basis, and many times they have to engage in lifting the patients, or moving the patients from the wheelchair to the bed or vice versa or simply moving the patients to different rooms. In this process, there are high chances of the CNAs getting back injuries. It is necessary that the CNAs follow proper guidelines while lifting the patients and take care not to hurt themselves or the patients. However, lifting the patients is not an easy task and CNAs can injure their back in this process. They need to life the patients in a proper manner in order to avoid any kind of injuries.

CNAs have to always be on their toes while on-the-job, and there are very rare chances that the CNAs may find time to actually sit down and relax. They have to take care of the patients daily and while doing their duties the CNAs may have to bend many times to perform the various chores, they may have to sit in varied positions and at times may also have to lift the patients and help them move around. The patients rely on the CNAs for their daily tasks and for this reason, it is extremely important that the CNAs keep themselves mentally as well as physically very fit. When CNAs are able to manage themselves well, only then they will be able to handle the patients in the proper manner. The patients are sick and require support from the CNAs who need to ensure that they are capable of lending such support to the ailing patients. CNAs thus need to ensure that they are calm and composed at all times as well as physically strong so that they can avoid injuries, especially back injuries.

The mental as well as physical strength of CNAs is put to test while attending the sick patients. Taking care of the patients requires lot of patience and is not at all easy. It has been observed that there are many CNAs who suffer from back injuries in the process of taking care of the patients. It is necessary for the CNAs to take precautions and follow all the correct instructions while lifting or moving the patients. These instructions are taught to the CNAs in the CNA training courses. By following all the given instructions, CNAs can ensure that they are not suffering from back injuries.

While lifting the patients, it is necessary to take into consideration the weights of both the parties, that is, the weight of the patient who is to be lifted and the weight of the CNA who is going to lift the patient. Accordingly, it needs to be decided whether the CNA can and should life the patient. In case the patient is overweight or too heavy in comparison to the CNA, then it is recommended that the CNA takes help of a colleague to lift that patient. This way, the CNA can ensure that there is no harm caused to either of them.

CNAs can take help of a slider board in order to move the patients from one bed to the other. This board can be kept under the patient's body while the other end of this slider board can be kept on the bed where the patient needs to be moved and accordingly the patient can then be slid to the other bed. This way there would be minimum chances of back injuries for the CNAs.

While dealing with patients on wheelchairs, it is recommended for the patient to sit in a straight or upright pose, parallel to the position of a CNA. The CNA can then slide the arms around the patient's waist and bend on the knees to move the patient into the wheelchair. This way, the maximum load will come on the knees and chances of back injuries will be reduced.

Majority of the healthcare facilities nowadays have advanced equipment to help the CNAs lift and move the patients. CNAs need to take precautions while doing their duties and need to follow all the instructions given by senior nurses as well as doctors properly while carrying out their tasks. In case the CNAs are still facing problems or having back injuries, it is recommended that they seek professional help immediately in order to avoid any serious medical problems. In order to take care of the patients, the CNAs first need to take care of themselves and be physically as well as mentally very fit so that they can handle the patients effectively and can enjoy their work.

Nursing Assistant's Work Objectives

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) come in direct contact with the patients on a daily basis and have to take care of the ailing patients. They have to ensure that the patients are properly taken care of and help them in the recovery process. CNAs also act as an important link between the patients and the senior nurses as well as doctors and have to make sure that they keep track of the patient's health condition. There are some nursing assistant work objectives that the CNAs need to keep in mind while on-the-job.

Following are the nursing assistant's objective for work:

Personal Care 

Nursing assistants have to help the patients perform their daily tasks such as bathing, feeding, moving around, grooming, dressing as well as undressing. They are also responsible for collecting specimens from the patients as well as for administering medicines and certain treatments. The nursing assistants may also at times have to help the patients for recording their weight. Apart from this they have to record the patient's vitals like pulse rate, temperature and so on.

Physical Duties 

Nursing assistants are responsible for changing the linen either in the hospital rooms or the patient's home. They are responsible for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, and hence have to clean the rooms and other work areas in the health-care facilities. Nursing assistant may require to lift the patients sometimes in order to help them move. They may have to transfer the patients from the wheelchair to the bed and vice versa. They are also responsible for setting up all the patient care equipment.

Nursing assistants are also assigned the duties such as, serving as well as collecting food trays, restraining the sick patients in case it is necessary, repositioning the bedridden patients in order to prevent bedsores, and keeping track of patients' health conditions and reporting the same to the senior nurses or doctors.

Administrative Objectives 

The administrative objectives of nursing assistants consists of answering phone calls and directing visitors to the right patient's room in the health-care facility. They are also responsible for delivering messages, documentation and doing certain clerical tasks. The nursing assistants also can schedule appointments with doctors for the patients.

Promote Positive Patient Care 

CNAs come in direct contact with the patients and they are in regular touch with the patients. The nursing assistant need to ensure that the stay of the patients is comfortable and they have to make the patients feel at ease. The nursing assistants should carry a positive attitude and support the patients who are sick to help them in speedy recovery. The nursing assistants need to be devoted and committed to their work and also towards patient care so that the patients feel relaxed and they recover at a faster pace.

Provide Emotional Support to Ailing Patients 

The nursing assistants come in touch with the ailing patients who are not only suffering physically, but are also mentally and emotionally distressed. It is the duty of the nursing assistant to lend a helping hand and offer the required mental and emotional support to the patients. They have to show empathy towards the patients condition and understand their needs well so that they can help the patients effectively.

Ensure Health as well as Safety of Patients 

The main goal of the nursing assistants is to ensure good patient health. They have to ensure that the patients are safe in the health-care facility and all their needs are met. They have to maintain cleanliness and hygiene to avoid the spreading of infections and diseases. They have to ensure that the health and safety of the patients is their top most priority.

Help in Proper Operation of the Medical Facility 

Medical or health facilities run best when each and every individual or worker in the facility works in coordination with others and cooperates with other coworkers. This implies that it is necessary for the nursing assistants to be good team players and have the ability to work cooperatively. The goals of the team should be more important than individual goals, ultimately for the benefit of the patients and the medical facility.

Share Medical Knowledge 

The nursing assistants have good knowledge about the basic medical treatments and it is a good practice to share this knowledge with the patients and their friends and family members. This will give them hope about the patient's recovery and reduce the mental pressure on them. Nursing assistants need to give quality care to the patients and in this process sharing of knowledge can go a long way in taking good care of the patients.

Other Objectives

It is also the responsibility of the nursing assistants to have good communication and interpersonal skills so that they can convey the messages properly to the patients, family members, doctors, senior nurses and coworkers. They have to plan and prioritize their tasks and manage their time effectively while handling the patients. They have to not only provide emotional support to the patients, but also have to help them in resolving conflicts and handling stressful situations so that it does not affect their health adversely.

Free CNA Schools

The demand for CNAs is rising, and hence the demand for the CNA training as well as the CNA schools is also rising. Along with this rise in demand for CNA professionals as well as CNA schools, the cost of the CNA training is also rising. There is a need for quality training, good instructors as well as proper study material and medical equipment, which shoots up the cost of the CNA training program. However, not all the candidates can afford this cost. Hence, such candidates can look for free CNA schools that offer CNA training at a lower cost. It is important to note that there is nothing like a completely free CNA training.

In case of the free CNA schools, candidates need to pay a certain minimum portion of the course fees and the remaining cost is borne by government the grants or various other scholarships aided by the government for such free CNA schools. There also exists various kinds of initiatives taken by the respective departments of the state for helping candidates aspiring to become CNAs, but who cannot afford the training cost. There are also some trusts that help the desirable candidates by paying a part of the CNA training fees by means of various scholarships. Candidates, however, need to sit for an examination and clear it in order to get such a scholarship or grant. Such exams aim to evaluate you on the basis of your communication as well as analytical skill sets to understand whether you are eligible for the CNA training.

The free CNA schools also offer CNA training through the Internet. They are thus also referred to as CNA online schools. The advantage of such online schools is that apart the low training fees, they offer a lot of flexibility to the candidates as the candidates can study as per their wish whenever they want to. You can manage your time by selecting the free online classes that are offered in the morning or evening time or during weekends.

These free CNA schools do offer the CNA training, however you need to evaluate the value of the CNA certification that is offered by these schools. You can check if these free CNA schools are accredited ones, as majority of the employers give preference to candidates who are certified from accredited CNA schools.

There are certain government agencies that offer loans to candidates who wish to become CNAs. This loan can be repaid once you get a good job. There are also grants which are offered by certain nursing schools that can help you pay the CNA training fees. You need to keep in mind that these scholarships as well as grants have certain eligibility criteria that you need to fulfill in order to avail them. Hence, it is better that you conduct a proper research on such free CNA schools and the various types of scholarships as well as grants offered, so that you can take care of the fees.

You can also pay a visit to hospitals, clinics and other healthcare facilities that provide internship facilities to the candidates. You can find out this information while you are still pursuing the free CNA training. While doing the internship, you can gain an understanding of the responsibilities and different tasks of the CNAs, and you can get a chance to become familiar with the healthcare environment. You will also understand ways to interact with patients as well as senior nurses and doctors. This will give you a chance to improve your practical or clinical skills.

When enrolling in a free CNA school, candidates also need to know if the training provided is of good quality and conducted by trained professionals. The candidates also need to check if they will be trained on interpersonal as well as communication skills. A training in soft skills is extremely important for the CNAs as they come in direct contact with the patients on a regular basis and they are responsible for helping the patients do their daily tasks as well as understand the patients' basic needs. The CNAs are responsible for helping the patients with bathing, feeding, dressing as well as moving around. They also have to ensure that the patients take the medicines on time. Thus, the free CNA schools need to train the candidates in all these important aspects of the nursing profession.

There are some free CNA schools which also provide work study programs for candidates, giving them a chance to earn while they are learning. This implies lowering the course fees by the free CNA school. Such programs help you develop your clinical skills and understand the roles of nursing assistants in a better fashion while on-the-job. In case you are already employed with some healthcare facility, you can request your employer to sponsor the CNA training. This is generally done on the condition that you continue working with that healthcare facility for a certain period after completing the CNA training.

Client Care Tips for CNAs

The main responsibility of CNAs is to take care of the patients in the best possible manner. The CNAs need to understand the client or the patient's behavior as well as their needs and take care of them in an effective manner. Here are some client care tips for CNAs.

CNAs should be aware of the client's mentality and behavioral patterns in order to assist them in a proper manner. Handling patients can be a very difficult task and CNAs need a lot of patience to manage this duty well. The clients are sick and they need constant care and support and it is the duty of CNAs to ensure that the clients feel comfortable and are properly taken care of. They need to ensure that the patients feel relaxed and positive so that it can help the patients recover at a faster rate. CNAs are responsible for helping or assisting the clients in doing their daily tasks such as bathing, dressing and undressing, feeding, grooming as well as moving around. CNAs need to handle all these responsibilities in a proper manner by being committed to their jobs and demonstrating a willingness to help the clients.

As a Certified Nursing Assistant, it is very essential to stay calm and composed at all times. They also need to develop a lot of patience and dedication towards their work. They need to pay careful attention to the needs of the patients or the clients and handle them in the best way possible. They need to keep in mind that they have to always be polite and understanding while communicating with the patients to make them feel comfortable. They also need to listen carefully to the patients to understand them correctly.

CNAs are responsible for giving a bath to the patients. While doing this duty, the CNAs need to make sure that the client is in a position to take a bath and not feeling drowsy. If the client is feeling weak or a bit drowsy, it is recommended to give the client a sponge bath. The CNAs need to make sure that the bathroom is well lit and there is good ventilation. The CNAs need to explain the importance of bathing to the patients and encourage them to take bath everyday to avoid infections and to help them feel fresh and clean. The CNAs should never recommend weak patients to take bath on their own as they are at a risk of hurting themselves and they should help them out.

CNAs also need to take care of grooming of the clients. Proper grooming ensures that the clients feel good about themselves. Grooming has a positive psychological impact on the clients and makes them feel better. CNAs should encourage the clients to groom themselves so as to boost their confidence levels.

Dressing the wounds of the clients is another important task of the CNAs. Dressing the wounds on a regular basis avoids the spreading of diseases and infections. The CNAs also need to keep the hair and scalp of the clients clean. Oral care is also important and CNAs need to ensure that the clients brush their teeth regularly to avoid bad odor and mouth infections.

CNAs also need to pay attention to the diet and nutrition of the clients and ensure that the clients are consuming healthy food. They need to keep track of the patient's intake of food and observe the dietary patterns and check if there are any changes required in the same. CNAs also need to check if the clients are taking their meals at proper time. There are some clients who cannot really taste the food because of their illness and during such times it is the responsibility of CNAs to feed the client properly despite the food being tasteless. CNAs can take help of some of the spices or add some flavors to encourage the clients to have their meals. Fenugreek as well as spinach not only add taste to the food but also help in bowel movements. CNAs should encourage the clients to have food that is healthy for them, and which will help them in their recovery. In case the clients are facing some difficulty in chewing the food, it is better that the CNAs mash the food beforehand so that the clients can easily eat the food. If the clients are experiencing a heartburn, then the CNAs should advice the clients not to sleep immediately after having food. The CNAs also need to ensure that the clients drink enough water.

CNAs basically are responsible for complete care of the patients. It is their duty to make the clients comfortable and hopeful about their treatment and recovery. They need to behave in a polite and friendly manner with the clients and ensure that they give the required mental and emotional support to the clients. The responsibility of CNAs also revolves around creating a happy and positive environment for the clients in the health-care facility. CNAs can accompany the clients for long walks and spend good quality time with them.

CNA Certification Practice Test

In order to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, you need to clear the CNA certification examination which is not very easy. The candidates need to be thorough in their theoretical knowledge as well as clinical or practical skills in order to pass this examination successfully. Remembering all the medical and clinical terminologies is very important, but at the same time it can be quite difficult; and constant practice is required to gain confidence about clearing the examination. The CNA certification practice test can help you know the way the test is conducted and you can also gain understanding of the type of questions asked. By taking the CNA certification practice test, you can evaluate yourself and judge your performance in the CNA examination.

Need for CNA Certification Practice Test 

• The CNA practice test will likely lessen the pressure as well as the nervousness associated with taking the CNA examination for the first time. 
• You can understand the areas of study in which you are lacking and need more practice This will help you practice for the same and build your confidence. 
• You also become aware of all the mistakes once you complete the practice test, and hence it helps you to avoid making similar mistakes again. 
• In case you are relocating to a different state, the CNA practice test can help you get a clear idea about the examination in that particular state and how it differs from the earlier state. 
• You can also manage your time effectively by way of giving the practice test as you are aware of the time required to answer all the set of questions. The sample or practice papers can allow you to decide on the time you can allot for each section so that you do not miss answering any questions. 
• In certain states, you need to give the CNA examination for renewal of the CNA license. In this case, answering the CNA practice test can help you quickly brush through the knowledge and appear for the test. 
• You can also learn some tips and tricks to increase your score in the CNA examination with the help of the CNA certification practice test 
• It helps the candidates to relax while increasing their confidence in clearing the CNA examination. 

Requirements of a CNA Certification Practice Test 

• Candidates should be minimum of 18 years of age 
• Candidates should hold a high school diploma or a GED 
• Candidates need to finish a minimum of 75 hours of CNA program training 

What Does the Sample Question Paper Include? 

The sample CNA papers include questions that are most likely to be asked in the final examination; however, these are not the original or actual set of questions that will be asked in the final examination. By giving the CNA certification practice test, candidates can get an idea about the kind of questions that are asked in the final CNA examination and gain the necessary amount of practice to boost their confidence about clearing the examination.

The CNA sample papers include several examples and set of questions that can be simple and at times very tricky. There are case studies and real life situations that are presented in the sample paper that give you a picture about the medical profession. The sample papers contain questions which are multiple choice as well as questions on the practical or clinical skills. Some of the topics that are included in the sample papers are as follows: 

• Patients Rights 
• Social Needs 
• Communication Skills 
• Diseases as well as Infection Control 
• Safety Measures 
• Personal Care 
• Importance of Hygiene 
• Psychosocial Care 
• Restorative Services  
• Responsibilities of a CNA 

The pattern or the design of the sample paper is on similar lines as that of the actual CNA examination paper. It consists of around 50-70 multiple choice questions containing four options for each question. The time given for the practice test is about two hours.

Who Conducts Practice Tests? 

Prometric is one of the well known test centers that is also affiliated with the Nursing Board and it possesses the legal rights to carry out CNA practice examinations for the candidates. Prometric has several agencies that are widespread across the US. In order to avail the facility of giving the practice tests, the candidates are required to be registered on the official website of Prometric. You also need to pay certain fees (about USD 30) in order to appear for the practice test.

Nurse Aide Practice Written Exam Packet (NNAAP) is also a good practice kit for the CNA examination. This practice kit can be downloaded via the Internet. It also gives you the right answers for all the questions. This way, candidates can check their performance and know their mistakes. It acts as a good guide while preparing for the CNA examination.

There are also certain free websites that offer the CNA practice tests. CDs as well as different DVDs are also available and candidates can always check them to get help for the CNA practice tests. Some of the community schools as well as colleges also carry out these practice tests.

CNA certification practice test are a way of ensuring that you gain confidence to appear for the final examination. You can work on your weak areas and manage your time while giving the final examination. Hard work as well as continuous practice with these kind of practice tests will help you clear the CNA final examination with excellent scores.

Difference Between CNA and LPN

Both CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) as well as LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) hold significant positions in the medical or health-care industry. Many a times, candidates get confused between CNA and LPN. These 2 professions are different from each other. So, what is the difference between CNA and LPN?

There exists a huge difference between CNAs and LPNs in terms of the job responsibilities, education and training, scope of practice as well as the pay scale. LPNs have a broader scope of job duties and responsibilities in comparison to CNAs. The LPNs also are more independent as compared to CNAs. LPNs also earn much higher than the CNAs.

The training program for LPNs lasts for about nine months to a year. On the other hand, the training program for CNAs is for a shorter duration ranging from 120 hours to a couple of weeks. However, CNAs can acquire the necessary amount of skills, experience and knowledge to progress their career as LPN.

LPNs generally have a greater amount of responsibility as compared to CNAs. LPNS can administer medication or IV meds that are previously selected by MD or RN. CNAs are not permitted to administer medications.

LPNs are trained in basic anatomy as well as physiology and they can differentiate abnormal from normal in the body. LPNs are also familiar with the disease process. This training is not part of CNA curriculum. Pharmacology is another aspect which is part of the LPN training but not part of the CNA training.

It is always recommended to go in for CNA training before applying for an LPN course. CNAs receive higher priority in terms of being considered for becoming LPNs. CNAs get exposure in terms of the clinical setting, and hence the chances of them succeeding in becoming LPNs is more as well as the chances of them handling their job responsibilities are more in comparison to first time LPNs who do not carry any clinical experience.

Difference between CNA and LPN 

Training 

For becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant, candidates need to undergo the CNA training that generally lasts from 4-6 weeks. The training needs to be approved by the state. For becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse, the candidates have to undergo the LPN training that lasts for one year. The clinical training lasts for a longer period in case of LPN training as compared to the CNA training.

Certification and License 

CNAs do not need license for doing their jobs. However, it is mandatory for CNAs for obtaining the CNA certification. The CNA certification is issued by the concerned state to candidates who complete the required CNA training course and qualify for the CNA certification examination.

For working as a LPN, it is necessary to get the license for LPN. To get the LPN license, candidates should finish the training course and qualify for the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination- Practical Nurse).

Validity of License 

From the issue date, the Certified Nursing Assistant certification stays valid for a period of 2 years. In certain states, there is a mandatory requirement to work as a paid nursing assistant for a certain period of time for getting the renewal of CNA certification.

From the date of issue, LPN licensure also stays valid for a period of 2 years. For getting the license renewed, LPNs need to continue educating themselves for a certain duration and also need to continue working as a paid employee in the nursing field.

Scope of Work

CNAs work under the guidance of LPNs. LPNs also supervise the work of CNAs. CNAs cannot perform the tasks and responsibilities of LPN.

In comparison to CNAs, LPNs come more directly in contact with patients. LPNS can carry out the duties of CNAs.

Job Duties 

CNAs carry out the following job duties: 

• Measuring patients' vitals 
• Controlling infection 
• Reporting the health condition of patients 
• Helping patients in dressing, bathing, moving as well as grooming 
• Helping the patients in ambulation 
• Taking care of the patient’s hygiene needs as well as nutritional requirements
• Collecting test samples 
• Cleaning the room of patients 
• Answering all call signals 
• Recording the food as well as food output and intake of the patients 
• Taking care of the necessary documentation 

As compared to CNAs, LPNs perform more number of duties which are as follows: 

• Cleaning medical equipments or instruments 
• Dressing wounds 
• Monitoring catheters 
• Preparing as well as giving injections 
• Giving massage 
• Performing laboratory tests 
• Recording of the patient's health condition and history

Salary 

CNAs may earn a salary of around $7 to $16 every hour. The salary of LPNs is much better in comparison to CNAs. LPNs may earn $12-$25 every hour.

Thus, there are several differences between CNA and LPN. However, CNA is like a stepping stone for career advancement in the medical or nursing field.

CNA Career Objectives

The job of a Certified Nursing Assistant is not an easy one and requires a lot of patience and dedication. Keeping in mind the CNA career objectives is an important aspect of being successful as a CNA.

While seeking a job as a CNA, it is important that you mention all the relevant information on your resume that reflects your ability and dedication towards the nursing profession. If you include any information that is irrelevant or baseless, then you might be rejected for the CNA job. It is essential that you possess the necessary educational qualifications as well as the necessary traits that are required to fulfill the CNA career objectives. It is important to mention the career objective in your CV or resume, and make sure that in this section you mention all the relevant details that give a good impression about yourself and ensure the employer that you are the best candidate for the job. Hence, it is first necessary to know and understand the CNA career responsibilities as well as objectives.

Responsibilities of CNAs 

CNAs typically work under the guidance and supervision of Registered Nurses or Licensed Practical Nurses. The major duty of the CNAs is to take care of the patients in hospitals, clinics as well as other health care facilities on a daily basis. The CNAs need to help or assist the patients in doing their day-to-day tasks such as feeding, brushing and bathing, dressing as well as moving. They also need to guide the patients when they do some kind of exercises.

CNAs are also assigned the duty of measuring and recording the vitals of patients like their blood pressure, pulse rate and so on. The CNAs have to report the medical or health condition of the patients to the concerned nurses or doctors. They also need to maintain all the necessary documents containing all the information about the patients and their treatment. CNAs also need to possess all the knowledge regarding the use of different medical instruments and equipments.

CNAs are also responsible for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene. They have to ensure that the patients' rooms are neat and tidy at all times. They have to change the linens on a regular basis. They have to ensure that they avoid the spread of infection and diseases. The CNAs also have to assure restorative care and encourage the rights of the residents or the patients. CNAs also have to carry out CPR checks.

In order to take care of all these responsibilities, the CNAs need to have certain traits or qualities such as being calm and composed at all times, being sincere, and having a lot of patience and dedication for the job. These qualities will not only help them handle their responsibilities well but also help in maintaining cordial relations with patients, coworkers as well as senior nurses and doctors. Consistent performance is also very necessary to be successful as a CNA. CNAs need to ensure that they are physically fit as the job can be strenuous and CNAs need to be on their toes all the time.

CNA Career Objectives 

The prime career objective of CNAs is to offer total patient care. They have to carry out all their duties in such a manner that the patients stay happy and healthy and recover at a faster rate. They have to ensure that the patients are relaxed and provide them hope for their fast recovery. CNAs can also mention that they wish to work for the welfare of the society as their career objective on the resume, which will reflect really good on the employers. This kind of a career objective implies that the candidate is well aware of the responsibilities of the CNA job and is ready to face them.

When the patients get admitted in hospitals or in clinics, there is bound to be some kind of disturbance and emotional trauma experienced by the patients as well as their friends and family members. The objective of CNAs in such cases is provide the necessary amount of care and emotional support to the ailing patients as well as the distressed friends and family members.

Interpersonal skills of the CNAs also is an important aspect and the objective of all the CNAs should be to ensure maintaining cordial and healthy relations with the patients, senior nurses and doctors as well as with the coworkers. This will also help in the growth of the particular medical facility as the working environment will stay positive. CNAs should be good team players as they constantly have to coordinate with the patients and the nurses and doctors. CNAs thus need to be very social and interact with everyone in a proper manner.

As time passes. CNAs are able to gain all the necessary experience and knowledge about the various kinds of medical treatments. This helps boosting the confidence levels of the CNAs and helps them perform their duties more efficiently. It also takes care of their fear and helps them to manage job related stress.

CNAs thus need to understand the career objectives in a proper manner and aim to fulfill the same in the best possible manner. Besides having the necessary educational qualifications, CNAs also need to demonstrate a high level of dedication and levels of patience to be successful in their job of taking care of the patients. Fulfilling the CNA career objectives will help the CNAs in gaining job satisfaction and thus give a lot of contentment and happiness.

Renewal of CNA Certification

In order to continue your practice as a Certified Nursing Assistant, you have to make sure that you do the renewal of CNA certification in time. In order to do this, you first need to be aware of the requirements for renewal of CNA certification. It is essential that you have been working as a CNA for the last 2 years before renewing the certification. You can fill up the Nurses Aide Registry Renewal Form if you fulfill this particular requirement and request for renewal. You can also renew the CNA certification in case you do not meet this criterion.

The procedure for renewal of CNA certification is known as recertification. After every 2 years, CNAs are required to renew their certification. The renewal process needs to be completed earlier than the last day of the month that you were born in.

Criteria for the CNA Recertification Process 

One of the criteria for renewal is that the CNAs should have worked for at least 150 hours in a span of last 2 years. This requirement is different across different states and candidates are required to check it with the respective state board. The renewal needs to be done in order to make sure that CNAs are updated with the latest changes in the medical field.

During the renewal process, you need to submit a document as proof that you're a US citizen and can work in that country. This requirement is a standard requirement across various working boards. You also need to give a felony convictions declaration to the state nursing board. In case you fail to notify the board of any kind of convictions, it would be leading to immediate disqualification from the register of the board.

Application for CNA Recertification

 In the application for CNA recertification, the first section requires you to put in all your personal details. The employer has to fill the second section of the application if you are presently working. In case you are not working, then this section can be filled by your previous employer where you have worked for a minimum of 150 hours in the last 2 years.

Once the application is filled, you can mail the same to the state nursing board. It takes a couple of weeks to complete the renewal process.

Renewal of CNA Certification 

One of the major requirements for renewal of CNA certification is that you have to be employed as a CNA for the last two years. It is not important if you are employed presently or where you are working currently, as long as you have worked for a minimum of 150 hours as a nursing assistant in a span of 2 years.

You can obtain the renewal form from the Nursing Aide Registry. You need to get this form duly filled by your current or last employer. Make sure you don't forget to sign the application form and put in the date of application. Once the form is completely filled, you can mail the same to the local agency or office. The renewal process takes a couple of weeks for completion and if the state office has a website, you can always log on to the same to keep track of your application status.

There's a possibility that CNAs have been out of work for the last couple of years. In this case, the situation is managed in a different way in different states. Certain states may ask the CNAs to undergo the CNA training all over again and appear for the certification examination. This can take a lot of time and also turn out to be quite costly. Thus, it is better that you continue working as a CNA so that the renewal process will be relatively simpler. There are other states which may not require the CNAs to undergo training, but they would have to just give the certification examination. The CNAs would require to provide for the test fees as well as the state fees.

Process for Renewal of CNA Certification 

• You can obtain the renewal form from the Nursing Aide Registry 
• You can start filling up the form by providing all you personal details. This personal information forms part of the first section of the application form. 
• The next section has to be filled by your healthcare employer. This employer can be your current employer or the last employer with whom you have worked for at least 150 hours in the previous two years. 
• Once all the personal and employment details are filled, you need to sign the renewal form and fill in the application date. You then need to mail the application form to a local agency of your state. 
• It takes a couple of weeks to process the renewal application. You can always check your application status online on the website of the state. 

Renewal of the CNA certification is an important aspect in continuing your practice as a CNA. It is better that you are working for the last two years before renewal, or else undergoing the CNA training and examination can be quite time consuming as well as expensive.

Difference between CNA and RN

The job as a Certified Nursing Assistant acts as a stepping stone for further career advancements in the medical or nursing profession. In all, there are 5 stages for a CNA that help you build a great nursing career and earn good salaries. Registered Nurse or RN is the second level of CNA. Let us now look at the difference between CNA and RN.

CNAs usually work under the guidance and supervision of Registered Nurses. RNs are also concerned with getting feedback on the health condition of the patients and reporting the same to the doctors. The benefit of the CNA to RN program is that it makes you aware of your tasks and responsibilities. The cost of this program is about $6000.

As per a recent survey, there is a great demand for Registered Nurses, and hence many medical institutions are now offering the CNA to RN courses. These programs are also available online. If you wish to progress your career as a RN, then it's best to carry out some research regarding the CNA to RN programs.

Difference between CNA and RN 

Education

In order to become a CNA, a high school diploma is necessary. To become a RN, candidates need a high school diploma as well as an ADN (associate degree in nursing) or the BSN (Bachelor of Science in nursing) degree.

Certification/ License 

Once the candidates finish with the required amount of CNA training for a certain period and clear the CNA certification examination, they can obtain the CNA certification. For getting the RN licensure, candidates require to clear the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) that is conducted by the National Council of State Nursing Boards.

Job Level 

CNAs are typically entry-level workers. CNAs work under the direction, supervision or guidance of RNs as well as LPNs. Registered Nurses, on the other hand, are higher level professionals who are in charge of supervising the tasks of CNAs as well as LPNs.

Job Responsibilities 

CNAs perform the following set of job duties: 

• Checking the patients frequently 
• Feeding as well as transporting patients 
• Assisting the patients in exercising, feeding, moving and bathing 
• Measuring and recording patients' vitals like blood pressure, pulse rate, etc.
• Handling the personal hygiene needs of the patients 
• Infection control and cleaning the patient’s room 

RNs are responsible to carry out the following job duties: 

• Assigning tasks to CNAs 
• Wound dressing 
• Supervising LPNs as well as CNAs 
• Administering injections and different kinds of medication 
• Assisting doctors with various medical procedures 

Working Alternatives 

CNAs have a wide variety of working options and can work in rehabilitation centers, assisted living centers, nursing homes, day care centers, hospitals, clinics, etc. RNs typically work in doctor’s offices or even in hospitals.

Career Advancement 

As a CNA, you have limited options for career advancement. With the necessary educational qualifications as well as required amount of experience, CNAs can advance their career to become LPNs or RNs. Registered Nurses, on the other hand, can assume managerial roles and can also carry on working as nurse practitioners after getting the necessary amount of training.

Scope of Practice 

CNAs work under the guidance, supervision and direction of the RNs. CNAs cannot discharge duties of RNs. RNs come in direct contact with the patients and can carry out the tasks of CNAs. Salary As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in the year 2010, the average annual income of CNAs was $24,010 while that of RNs was $64,690. The hourly income of CNAs in 2010 was $11.54, while that for RNs was $31.10.

How to move up from a CNA to RN 

To become a RN, candidates need a minimum qualification of associate degree or bachelor's degree in nursing. The main task of the Registered Nurses is to assist and help the patients in case of emergency situations in the Intensive Care Units (ICU). RNs can work in schools and colleges as well as in hospitals and other medical and health care institutions. The CNA program consists of 5 levels which are as follows: 

• Level 1 – Certified Nursing Assistant – 6 to12 months 
• Level 2 – Associate Degree in Nursing – 1 year 
• Level 3 – Bachelor of Science in Nursing – 4 years 
• Level 4 – Master of Science in Nursing – 2 years 
• Level 5 – Doctorate of Science in Nursing – 2 to 5 years 

In order to become a CNA, candidates need to be of minimum 18 years of age and also need to hold a high school diploma or GED. Once you clear the CNA certification examination, you can apply for the next levels in the nursing profession. You can also get the CNA license from the concerned governing authority so that you can start looking and applying for the desired job.

In case you wish to progress your career as a Registered Nurse, then it is necessary for you to possess certain traits such as good amount of patience, good communication skills, equipped with the necessary domain knowledge as well as being calm and composed by nature. The associate degree in nursing, which is of two years, can help you become a RN; while the bachelor's degree, which is for four years, can help you assume managerial roles in the field of nursing.

Candidates need another year after becoming CNAs to further their role to become RNs. They need to finish with the associate degree. The candidates will be assigned a small project work as well as a training program work shop. In this particular training work shop, the candidates will be trained on various aspects like time management (this includes completing all the tasks within a given time frame), handling the hygiene needs of the patients, monitoring and keeping track of the health condition of the patients and above all providing the patients with the necessary mental and emotional support to help them recover at a faster rate.

Thus, we see that there are several differences between CNAs and RNs. RNs are at a much higher level in the nursing field as compared to the CNAs. However, aspiring CNAs can always look forward to becoming RNs by pursuing the CNA to RN programs.

Prometric CNA Certification

Many individuals aspire to become Certified Nursing Assistants. However, in order to become a CNA, you need to know the requirements for the CNA certification and examination. Prometric is one of the world leaders in providing the CNA testing as well as assessments. They also have a website named prometric.com, which covers a wide range of subjects. The Prometric CNA certification adds great value to your career in the nursing field.

Prometric has testing centers in various states in the U.S., as well as in Europe and Africa. Several State Nursing Boards as well as leading corporations are now handing over the responsibility of CNA examination to the Prometric center.

Prometric CNA Test 

The candidates need to undergo the CNA training that includes the classroom or theoretical sessions as well as the clinical or practical training before they can apply for the CNA certification examination that is conducted by many Prometric testing centers in the country. This exam conducted by the Prometric testing center has a written as well as a performance based exam which is supposed to be taken on the computer and is carried out in a normal testing environment. The test consists of a minimum of 50 questions that are multiple choice questions and need to be completed within a specified time span. The Prometric CNA test will help you to familiarize yourself with the different kinds of questions that are most likely to be asked in the final CNA examination.

Prometric CNA Test Drive 

Before you actually appear for the final test, you can always log on to the Prometric website and give the practice test or the CNA test drive as they popularly mention it on the website. All the necessary details related to the CNA examination are clearly mentioned on the Prometric website.

The practice test is usually for 30 minutes and you can get a clear picture as to how the actual CNA examination will be. It lets you practice answering the different set of questions that are likely to be asked in the CNA examination.

Following are certain guidelines to help you with the Prometric practice test: 

• You need to check the registration details first just like you would do for the actual test 
• Then you need to finish with the procedure for check-in 
• You can go through the brief introduction about employees as well as tutors at the testing center and other related details 
• You can start and finish the 15 minute test sample 
• You can then give the practice test and prepare for the real CNA exam 

It is good to give the Prometric practice test as it will make you familiar with the actual CNA test. Also, since the test takes place in the same testing center as the Prometric test drive, you will be comfortable while appearing for the actual CNA test. The Prometric practice test can typically be taken only once a week (Tuesdays) and there is also a certain cost that you need to bear for the practice test which is $30. You can then register and apply for the Prometric test online on prometric.com. The website will give you the details about the location for your test at a center that is nearest and convenient for you.

The demand for CNAs is on a rise and there are number of individuals who aspire to become CNAs because of which there is a great need for the CNA training. It is because of this reason that several medical centers and healthcare facilities are now conducting CNA training for aspiring nursing assistants. These healthcare facilities are typically governed by the State Nursing Boards. The State Nursing Boards have granted permission to the Prometric to conduct the CNA practice tests as well as the final CNA assessment across several regions in the US. Prometric is a testing center that works in coordination with the Nursing Boards and conducts on an average 10 million CNA examinations per year. Prometric helps candidates secure their CNA license and start practicing in the nursing field.

One of the major criteria to obtain the license for CNA is that you need to undergo the required amount of CNA training and clear the CNA certification examination. Though you may sit for the theory as well as practical sessions, it is necessary that you practice answering different types of practice test questions so that it will help you clear the final CNA test. This is where Prometric will help you and guide you to give the practice tests and prepare yourself for the final examination.

Once you register on prometric.com, you can assess yourself on your performance based on the practice tests that you give. You can check the results of the test and evaluate your strengths and weaknesses and check for your mistakes. A set of 50 multiple choice questions need to be answered within 30 minutes and this gives you an idea about the actual test questions. You can thus excel in your final CNA examination by giving the practice tests.

Advantages of Prometric CNA Certification: 

• Only the candidates who are eligible are allowed to register on prometric.com. The administrator ensures that precautions are taken to avoid any kind of unnecessary problems and issues during the registration of eligible candidates.
• The results of the practice test are immediately available after giving the exam and you can correct all the mistakes and prepare yourself thoroughly for the actual examination. 
• The authorities present at the testing centers are experts in the medical field and very well qualified. Hence, you can expect to get proper guidance from them. 

Thus the Prometric practice tests will help you prepare properly for the actual CNA examination and build you confidence to clear the test successfully.

Overview of CNA Agencies

What are CNA Agencies? 

CNA agencies serve as an important link between qualified CNAs and different kinds of medical facilities. The CNA agencies provide guidance to qualified CNAs in seeking good job opportunities that fits their qualifications. The nurse aide agencies also help medical facilities like clinics and hospitals to fill the vacant positions by providing them with the qualified candidates. Here is a brief overview of CNA agencies.

In 1980, the US was experiencing a great shortage of nurses. It is because of this reason that the CNA agencies came into existence in order to fill this gap by supplying nurses to the distressed clinics, hospitals and other healthcare centers. At present, there are numerous nursing agencies that have started their operations in various parts of the country.

The CNA agencies function in the same fashion as staffing agencies by listing qualified CNAs as well as other medical professionals and matching them with the vacant positions or job requirements of various healthcare facilities.

The demand for CNAs is on the rise; however, the supply is too low. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has predicted that there would be a 18% rise in job opportunities for CNAs by 2018. The CNA agencies are governed by state as well as federal laws.

CNA agencies help long term healthcare facilities, assisted living centers, hospital, clinics and nursing homes in taking care of the job positions of home health care workers, homemakers as well as nursing aides.

It is quite simple to find and join a CNA agency. Majority of the CNA agencies make the staffing requirements totally accessible with the help of the Internet. When a healthcare professional joins this kind of an agency, an agent is assigned to assist the professional. The agent then manages all the needs related of the professional depending on the job profile they are looking for.

CNA Agency Types 

Travel nursing agency: These agencies cater to the vacancies for nurses all across the country. They help in managing the shortage in supply of nursing assistants in remote areas. The CNAs who are comfortable with the idea of working in any region of the country should register themselves with travel nursing agencies.

Nurse recruiting/staffing agency: These agencies help the CNAs in seeking right job opportunities in specific states. They maintain good contacts with various healthcare employers. They guide CNAs grabbing job opportunities in different areas of healthcare, such as cardiac care, gerontology, psychiatric nursing, pediatrics, surgical nursing, and so on.

How to start a CNA Agency?

Following are the steps to start a CNA agency:

Step 1- Search for a proper office. You could possibly make use of one of the rooms in your home for an office. Make sure that you place a telephone as well as a computer in your office.

Step 2- Try and establish connections with various HR departments of all the prospective employers (such as hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and so on) in your area. Tell them about your CNA certification and win their confidence as regards to your abilities to fulfill the vacant positions. You can also sign an agreement with them to recruit CNAs at a certain remuneration.

Step 3- Then you can look for potential candidates who are on the look out of job opportunities. Check for their qualifications in order to see if they meet the job requirements. You can go in for advertisements in different kinds of nursing or medical magazines or even create a nice leaflet that contains information about the employers as well your contact information.

Step 4- You can then scrutinize all the prospective candidates. Verify their details pertaining to qualifications as well as all the certifications. Then contact the potential healthcare employers and specify that the shortlisted candidates possess all the necessary qualifications and skills that match the job requirements.

Step 5- Record all the relevant information pertaining to business. Maintain all the details about the employees working for you and the agreement copies with the employers. You can create different files for recording all this information. You can also store all the data on the computer for fast retrieval.

Step 6- Take care as to conducting all the business affairs as per the norms which are specified by state, federal and local laws. Your business needs to conform with the regulations governing all the medical staffing as well as state licensing employment.

How to register a CNA Agency? 

• Registration of CNA agencies can be done as limited liability or limited partnership. You can also register a nursing agency as sole proprietorship. This way, the clients will be in a position to understand whom to contact in case of any kind of an issue. It also helps you in paying off your tax returns. 
• The company needs to be registered with IRS (Internal Revenue Service). Employer Identification Number can be requested for the CNA agency. You can also opt to register online. 
• For getting information pertaining to small business funding as well as grants, you can join SBA (Small Business Administration) of U.S.A. SBA offers several aids, such as direct connections with local as well as federal agencies, online training as well as model business plans. 
• The registration needs vary as per the state. You can always get in touch with the state licensing office of your state for information regarding agency registration. 
• You can become a member of NAHC (National Association for Home Care and Hospice) which is the largest trade association in US. 
• You can also register with the state Medicaid or Medicare agency. This will ensure that the CNA agency is legal.

How to Boost CNA Exam Score

Once you have finished with your CNA training, it is time to prepare yourself for the CNA certification, which means you need to start studying for the CNA examination. You need to follow a disciplined approach while preparing for the CNA competency test so that you can successfully clear it. Here are some tips on how to boost your CNA exam score.

The theoretical as well as clinical skills that you learn during the CNA training will be put to test during the CNA examination, and hence you need to be thoroughly prepared for the same. Following are some useful tips to help your prepare for the CNA exam:

Plan a study schedule: Having a study schedule planned is extremely important so that you know when to study and give yourself a break in between. You need to set a time aside for your studies and make sure that there are no interruptions during this time so that you can completely concentrate on your studies. Give yourself regular breaks in between to relax and get fresh so that you can focus better on the studies after the break.

When you plan a study schedule, make sure your friends and family know about the same so that they encourage you to follow that schedule and do not disturb you when you are studying. This kind of discipline is very important to prepare thoroughly for the CNA competency exam and boost your CNA exam score. You can fix 2 to 3 hours in a day to study for the CNA exam and make sure that you follow this schedule strictly.

Obtain a study guide: Obtaining a study guide is another important step to boost your CNA exam score. Make sure that the study guide is of good quality and provides the necessary information such as: 

• It describes in detail the CNA exam format 
• There are sample questions included in the study guide and/or CNA practice tests included 
• They provide important advice on the techniques for taking the CNA examination 
• Help you with all the relevant notes and information to help boost your CNA exam score 

The above mentioned information will definitely help you get acquainted with the exam format and help you prepare for the CNA exam. It will also make you familiar with the kind of questions asked and the different types of testing techniques.

You can get the CNA study guide either from a bookstore or online. You can get the necessary information on CNA study guide from your teachers, fellow CNA candidates and experienced CNAs so that you can select the best source for obtaining the CNA study guide.

Be positive: It is important that you carry a positive attitude while preparing yourself for the CNA examination. You also need to have confidence in your abilities. It is important for you to remember that you have finished all the necessary CNA training and are now equipped with all the essential knowledge as well as skills to successfully clear the CNA examination.

If you are feeling anxious about giving the examination, you can always take the CNA practice tests that will boost your confidence and as you answer different types of questions, it will make you familiar with the kind of questions asked in the actual CNA test, and thus make you feel a little more comfortable. There is no use doubting your capacity, rather a positive attitude will take you a long way in clearing the CNA examination with a good score.

Be well aware of the format of the CNA exam: Before you appear for the CNA examination, it is necessary that you are well ware of the exam format. The CNA exam has two parts – a theoretical section and a clinical or practical assessment section. You need to successfully pass both these sections to become a CNA.

The format of the CNA examination can be different for different states, however, majority of the states have 70 multiple-choice questions to be answered in the written or theoretical section which the students need to complete within a span of 2 hours.

The clinical or practical skills assessment, on the other hand, needs the students to perform five hands-on clinical skills. These clinical assessments need to be completed within a set time frame. The candidates get around 30 minutes to perform the clinical skills, like measuring and recording the patients' vitals, dressing the patient, feeding the patient, moving the patient and so on.

Take CNA practice tests: Practice makes a man perfect and this saying holds true even in terms of the CNA exam. With the help of the CNA practice tests, you can get familiar with the kind of questions asked in the CNA examination. You can also understand the time that you might require to solve all the test questions and plan accordingly.

By practicing for the CNA exam, you will become more confident to answer all the test questions in the actual CNA examination. The more you practice, the better for you in terms of preparing for the examination.

Relax: Try to relax when you are preparing for the examination. You need to focus on your breathing and take deep breaths so that you can completely relax and let go of all your worries and negative thoughts.

You also need to take care that you diet and sleep . A minimum of 7 to 8 hours of sleep in necessary everyday. Make sure you relax and don't disturb your eating and sleeping habits due to unnecessary tension for the examination.

So, the above mentioned tips will help you boost your CNA exam score. It is important that while appearing for the CNA examination, you try and attempt all the questions and do not leave any questions blank. Make sure that you arrive on time for the CNA exam at the test center and give yourself enough time to get set to clear the examination with a great score.

CNA Job Issues

Certified Nursing Assistants serve as an important link between the patients and the doctors as well as senior nurses like the Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). CNAs come in direct contact with the patients and they are responsible for helping the patients in their daily tasks such as bathing, feeding, dressing and moving the patients. However, there are many CNA job issues and difficulties experienced by CNAs on duty.

One such job issue for CNAs is the compensation they receive in return of the duties they perform. CNAs may be paid on an hourly basis and this rate varies from state to state. The average pay scale for CNAs can range from $8 to $14 every hour. CNAs are now urging for raising this pay.

CNAs are now forming and participating in unions to stress the fact that they are not compensated well enough for their duties. The pay given to CNAs does not provide for the risks that the CNAs bear in the medical profession. In the healthcare or medical profession, the CNAs are dealing with lives of patients and cannot afford to do any kind of mistakes. Hence, the CNAs have to be very careful while taking care of the patients. This in turn increase the work load on the CNAs, and they have to always be on their toes to assist the patients, but they are not compensated well for the same.

CNAs believe that the pay that they receive cannot be sufficient for providing for their needs as well as the requirements of their families. CNAs sometimes have to stay up nights and let go of weekends and holidays to be by the side of the patients; but in return they do not receive enough pay. CNAs feel that they deserve more than what they get. This is one of the CNA job issues that the administration should take into consideration.

CNA Job Issues 

Horizontal Harassment: It is often seen that when new CNAs join a particular healthcare facility, then the other experienced CNAs generally tend to look down upon them. The experienced CNAs also allot unpleasant tasks to the new CNAs which can be very demotivating. This is known as horizontal harassment. This behavior of the experienced CNAs towards the new CNAs lasts till the new CNAs gain sufficient skills and experience so that they are confident enough to face the experienced CNAs. Once they gain the confidence of the experienced CNAs, things get better. However, this kind of behavior should not be encouraged as it leads to lower motivational levels and decrease in confidence of the new CNAs.

Vertical Harassment: Vertical harassment is also one of the major CNA job issues. This means that the seniors or the individuals up the hierarchy constitute unjustified behavior to the juniors in the healthcare facility. There may be incidences of verbal abuse or backstabbing. At times, there are also chances of political maneuvering by the seniors in the healthcare facility. This can have an adverse effect on the minds of the CNAs and needs to be taken care of on an immediate basis.

Helplessness: Majority of the times when CNAs seek help from the top authorities, they are advised to toughen up and handle the problems on their own. This leads to helplessness and can negatively impact the working patterns of the CNAs as they do not have anybody to really solve the problems faced by them.

How to Solve the CNA Job Issues? 

The CNA job issues need to be handled by the administration as well as by the CNAs themselves. The administration needs to understand that the CNAs constitute an important part of the medical or healthcare industry and they need to be paid well for the duties that they carry out.

CNAs, on the other hand can brush up their team building and communication skills so that they can effectively interact with their coworkers which will in turn bridge the gap between them. CNAs can also look around to making a couple of good friends in the healthcare facility that they are working in so that they can share their problems and eventually solve them in a proper manner. CNAs need to stay calm and be tough to handle difficult situations so that there in no negative impact on their work performance.

It is also important that the doctors as well as the senior nurses are supportive towards the new CNAs who have joined the healthcare facility. The doctors and nurses need to guide the CNAs properly so that the CNAs can develop all the necessary skills to be successful in the nursing field.

By following all these measures. CNAs can handle the job issues. However, if the problems still persist then it's best that the CNAs notify the authorities and get the problems solved at the earliest possible so that it does not hamper their career.

What are CNA Travel Assignments

According to health-care reports, the demand for health-care professional is on a rise in the U.S. And this is going to continue increasing for the next many years. CNAs can work in hospitals, clinics, long term care facilities and many other health-care settings. The aging population and the medical needs of individuals is rising and so is the demand for CNAs. Considering the rising demand for CNAs, the CNA travel assignments are being provided by various agencies in the U.S.

What are CNA Travel Assignments? 

CNA travel assignments are a new development in the medical field wherein the transient CNAs are often sent to different locations where there is shortage of manpower. These travel assignments are not restricted to nurses only, but are also available for doctors and other therapists.

There is a great need for health-care professionals even in rural areas. In response to this need, the travel assignments have been developed to send the nurses to areas which do not have easy access to health-care facilities. Such travel assignments are usually on a contract basis.

CNA Travel Job Opportunities 

A traveling and employment agency is usually in charge of the CNA travel assignments. This agency forms an important link between the CNA and the employer who is likely to hire the CNAs. CNAs need to provide the necessary professional details to this agency. The job requirements are then matched with the credentials and the CNAs are then contacted by the agency in case of suitable job opportunities.

Relocation Services 

Relocation services are available for the CNAs who are traveling to different locations. The traveling agency takes care of and manages the lodging arrangements for the CNAs and different facilities and provisions for relocation. Certain allowances and monetary benefits may also be provided to traveling CNAs by the agency.

Benefits of CNA Traveling Assignments 

Following are some of the advantages of the CNA travel assignments:

1. Traveling Opportunity: The CNA travel assignments are formed on a contractual basis and this offers opportunities to the traveling CNAs to visit several different locations in a short span of time. You can continue working while enjoying a sort of vacation and break from the daily routine.

2. Compensation: There is a provision for additional compensation for traveling CNAs other than the regular pay offered by the employer. The compensation may be in the form of medical assistance, job placement, health insurance as well as other different types of bonuses.

3. Growth in Career: As CNAs get to travel to different locations with the CNA travel assignments, they get to hone their skills and knowledge in different areas of nursing. This adds to their professional experience and helps them grow in their nursing career.

Though these travel assignments for CNAs are available for CNAs, they need to assess whether they are suitable for this kind of a job opportunity. Not everyone enjoys a career that is cut out for traveling. You may be tied up with your day-to-day responsibilities that may not allow you to travel. If you have many other commitments besides your job, then may be the CNA travel assignments are not a good option for you to choose. You need to analyze whether you would like being away from home for extended periods of time and then decide on opting for the CNA travel assignments.

If you have made up your mind to go in for the CNA travel assignments, then you need to look for a good employment place. Word of mouth publicity is the best option to find out about good employers. You can get feedback from friends and family members about the employment agencies and then choose accordingly. You can also ask the traveling agency which is a reputed one and has been in business for a long time for references about employers.

Once you have found out a suitable agency, you will have to undergo a background check and a drug screening test which is mandatory. You need to study the contract and the employment terms carefully before signing. Check if the agency is providing for the traveling and lodging expenses. Also, study about the other allowances that are being provided by the agency.

The duration of the CNA travel assignments vary and may range from a couple of weeks to even a year. The location also may vary depending on the need for health-care professionals. The location may be in rural areas or in some luxurious location. It's better to get clarity on all these details from the agency. You also need to let them know about your employment preferences so that they can guide you with the suitable options available. There may be many travel assignments for you, which you will have to take one after the other as guided by the agency.

With the CNA travel assignments, you get to travel to different locations of the world and enhance your skills and expertise as a CNA professional. The health care needs of the patients in different locations will vary and you will learn a lot from these different types of situations. You also get a break from the daily, boring routine. CNA travel assignments thus present a good opportunity for CNAs who are willing to move to different locations and serve the patients.

What are CNA RN Programs

CNA RN programs offer a great platform for CNAs to advance in their careers as well as increase their paychecks. Many individuals who aspire to enter into the profession of nursing, start their career as a Certified Nursing Assistant. It is a great, rewarding career option to go in for.

The path to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) begins with being a Certified Nursing Assistant at the entry level. Once you become a CNA, you have a chance to explore the nursing profession and decide whether the nursing profession suits you or not. You can complete the CNA program within a span of 6 months. The CNA training programs are offered by several nursing schools as well as community colleges.

When you work as a CNA, you get familiar with the hospital or clinic environment and get into the habit of serving the patients who are ill. Also, as you are working under the supervision of the Registered Nurse, you become aware of the tasks performed by the Registered Nurse. You can always ask for help and guidance from the Registered Nurse for the progression in your job. As you have already worked as a nursing assistant, it will be quite simple for you to get acquainted with the clinical terminology and the instructions given. Also, you will be good at handling the medical instruments and equipment that you worked with while you were a nursing assistant.

The demand for the Registered Nurses is on the rise and it is going to continue rising in the coming decade. The tasks of RNs include the following: 

• Drawing a routine or regular nursing plan 
• Assessing and evaluating the patients' health 
• Conducting primary diagnosis 
• Educating and informing the patients as well as their family members regarding the patient's illness 
• Telling the patients about precautions required 
• Supervising the Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) as well as the Nurse Aides
• Informing the health condition of the patients to the doctor 

When you are a CNA, you can draw a salary of around $25,000. When you become a RN, this salary shoots up to $80,000; with the national median salary of RN being $64,000. The job of a RN is highly specialized and highly inclined towards medical care. You can thus advance you career as a RN by opting for the CNA RN Programs to become a Registered Nurse.

CNA RN Programs 

There are several medical colleges that offer CNA RN programs or CNA nursing programs for you to advance your career in the nursing field. These courses are usually of 2 types: 

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): The duration of this program is for 2 years
• Bachelors Degree in Nursing (BDN): The duration of this program is for 4 years 

Other than the above mentioned degrees, you could also pursue higher education by choosing a Masters or a Doctorate degree. Besides the experience that you carry, it is your higher education that is going to help you increase your paycheck. The State Nursing Board conducts the examinations for these higher degrees. Once you clear the exams, you will be awarded the license to practice as a nurse.

CNA RN Programs – Advantages 

If you are a Certified Nursing Assistant, you are eligible to enroll for the CNA RN Programs. These programs take less time for completion, as majority of the nursing schools take into account the training and experience of a CNA while conducting the RN training and awarding the nursing degree. Thus you have the advantage of gaining a ADN or BDN degree faster than your competitors by six months. Hence, make sure that you choose schools that permits your CNA credits transfer, so that you can land up saving a lot of time as well as money.

CNA RN Program Cost 

When you enroll for the RN program, the associate degree costs around $6000, while the bachelors degree costs $10,000. However, if you are a CNA, and you enroll for the CNA RN Program, the cost of the associate degree would be around $5000 and the bachelors degree will cost around $8000. This is how you will be benefited in terms of saving your money if you are a Certified Nursing Assistant enrolling for the RN program.

Many individuals opt for the 2 year courses as the duration is less. However, if you aspire for some kind of higher education, it is best that you opt for the 4 year degree course. Many students enrolling for the ADN program later go in for the BDN course, as it offers the advantage of higher paychecks.

It is better to choose nursing schools while considering the CNA RN programs because the universities will tend to charge comparatively higher for the same courses. Certain schools also provide the facility of online training with the practical or clinical training being conducted in hospitals or the nursing homes.

There are many schools that also offer scholarships to CNAs who are excelling in their performance or those going through a financial crisis. The State Nursing Board of various states also has these kind of scholarship programs. You need to carry out some research regarding these scholarship facilities as well as the eligibility requirements for the same.