There are many things to consider before embarking on the journey to become a Certified Nurse Aide. Many people complete the training only to never actually work in this field, many will no sooner complete orientation at their first employer before deciding they just can't do this kind of work. They types of duties you perform will vary depending on which environment you are employed in but some basic duties tend to stay the same.

Taking vitals - you will monitor and record Pulse, Temps and Respirations along with taking blood pressure reading.

Changing incontinent residents/patients - whether you work in a hospital, nursing home or for a home health care agency you will be expected to change the briefs or pads of any person who in incontinent.

I will say probably the toughest of all places to work as a Certified Nurse Aide is in the nursing home environment. In a nursing home you will be responsible for a large number of residents some of whom are just plain angry to be there, others with alzheimers cannot help their behaviors and will act out by biting, hitting, spitting or being verbally abusive. Many times your nurse will sit at her desk and be resentful of any assistance you may need from her superior self. Although they provide the core care residents require, CNA's are the least appreciated staff members in the nursing home heirachy.

If you are embarking on this job choice for the money, I respectfully ask that you choose another. The only rewards to be found in this position are generally the occasional gratitude you will receive from the patients/residents that you tend so lovingly. I've had many residents that hated the sight of me and even more that were thrilled to see me during my scheduled shift. Patience is the number one quality needed for this career, it is repetitive and the financial remuneration is little.

On the other hand if you are a loving, caring, nurturing person by nature this could be the perfect carerr path for you. I have seen too many CNA's who yell at residents or treat them as babies. These are extraordinary people who've come to their end of life, if you take the time to speak with them (the ones you can) they have a wealth of knowledge to share and many amusing stories to tell. Some of my most "demanding" residents are simply lonely and want someone to talk to, so they ring the call light all night long just to be reassured of your presence.

Learn more about this author, Christina McCreedy.
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