Jobs, careers and average salaries for a CNA, or a Certified Nurse Assistant, vary from state to state. But, nationwide standards do exist for the CNA job description. Basically, the CNA provides a basic nursing service under the supervision of an RN (Registered Nurse) or an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse). This supervision is necessary, as the CNA does not have the legal powers or responsibilities of a registered nurse.

The CNA position often is seen as an entry-level position for a long-term climb in a nursing career. However, many nursing assistants stay at this position for years, as this job is rewarding on many levels. The job requires that the CNA, depending upon the work environment, care for patients or clients and report to the RN or LPN on the patient’s condition.

Nurse assistant duties include observing patients, caring for the patient’s hygiene when necessary, monitoring vital signs, help with meals and feeding when required, mobilizing the patient to tests or therapy and attending to other patient needs. These job duties usually occur in both hospitals and in long-term care facilities, but the patient in the latter facility often is referred to as a “resident.” You can learn more about how long-term facilities are rated by the government at Medicare.gov. Both the State Adult Care Home Star Rating System and the Federal Nursing Home Star Rating System provide a “snapshot view” of facilities, and were designed to provide consumers and workers with information to make informed decisions.

The difference in healthcare facilities often defines the job of the nursing assistant. For instance, in the hospital environment, the nursing assistant’s interaction with patients often are limited to the time spent by the patient in the hospital. Long-term care facilities, on the other hand, provide an environment where nursing assistants can become well acquainted with the residents. If you would prefer variety, the long-term healthcare facility might not be the best choice for your career.

A nursing assistant’s job becomes a career when that CNA decides whether to obtain further education. Otherwise, the only option for higher wages is to stay on the job for more than four years to take advantage of experience and cost-of-living pay raises. Further education allows the nursing assistant to advance a career into nursing as an RN or as an LPN. Research sites such as PayScale to learn more about CNA wages.

A CNA’s work shift usually lasts about 7.5 hours with a one-hour break. To earn additional income, many Certified Nurse Assistants work double shifts. Some CNAs work a second job elsewhere, and can work 6 or even 7 days per week. Since no previous healthcare experience is required to become a CNA, this job usually pays between $9.50 to $12.00 per hour for the first four years. A CNA who stays in this career for twenty years or more currently makes about $12.00 to $15.00 per hour.

The previous hourly rates may vary depending on the type of facility chosen for work and the state where the CNA resides. Additionally, the CNA often can add more certifications to add value to a resume, and this is a great a way to add value to that paycheck in many cases.