subject: Become A Certified Nursing Assistant With Cna Classes [print this page]
If you'thought about becoming a nurse assistant, you might want to consider the Red Cross CNA class (Certified Nursing Assistant). The Red Cross class gives you a nationally recognized certification.
The traditional entry-level position in nursing is considered to be the Certified Nursing Assistant. They are also known as a nurse's aide because they take their orders directly from more highly trained nurses. To become a CNA, college is not required. There are vocational programs available that generally only take a few weeks to fully complete. After your educational courses and practical training are complete, you can become certified in your state and begin work. The CNA, however, has limited responsibility. You will find yourself feeding and bathing patients, checking vital signs, and performing other non-invasive tasks.
You may want to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. They can do the work of the CNA plus medicate, perform injections, and take note of a patient's progress. These nurses follow the instructions of the RN. This position provides more in-depth care and demands a slightly more intense education. You will have to obtain an associate's degree in nursing, a one to two year endeavor. Also, you will be required to pass the NCLEX-PN exam before licensure.
A Registered Nurse or RN can provide all the care of the CNA, LPN, plus have added responsibilities in patient care and surgery and take their orders directly from physicians. This type of nurse will oversee the LPNs and CNAs. To be an RN, the minimum requirement is an associate's degree in nursing. A four-year bachelor's degree, though, is more widely preferred. No matter which educational approach you take to becoming an RN, you will still have to take and pass the NCLEX-RN before licensed and able to work.
Your education does not have to stop at any of the above-mentioned levels. Programs offered by universities and colleges can enable you to continue your education and possibly make more money in your career. An RN that only has an associate's degree can go and obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing diploma by entering the RN to BSN program. The LPN also has a similar course to BSN. You can even work your way up to a PhD!
Hopefully, you are now not as confused as you were about the types of nursing school programs and nurse classifications. They all take work, even the Red Cross CNA class, but give you a great career helping people in need. Health care systems grow exponentially each year, so there is always a high demand for nurses. Talk about job security!
