Training CNA

It’s no secret that the health-care industry is under a tremendous amount of pressure. New medical technology, as well as the aging baby boomer population, plus an aging nurse force are creating more jobs in hospitals and other clinical facilities and there’s not enough trained personnel to fill available positions. Over 70% of hospital employees are nurses and nursing assistants. The Department of labor reports that by 2015 there will be thousands of nursing positions available and not enough qualified nurses to fill them. There’s never been a better time to complete CNA training online. Certified nursing assistants are a vital part of the nursing profession and it’s a perfect way to start a career in nursing.

There’s an old saying in the nursing profession: “The best RNs started out as CNAs.” Completing CNA training online is considered a solid foundation for a lucrative nursing career. Since there is a shortage of certified CNAs, hospitals are designing employment packages that are extremely attractive. A first year certified nursing assistant earns $20,000 to $30,000 depending on the state and the size of the hospital and with a few years experience, CNAs can earn an average of $35,377 a year. Hospitals, assisted living environments, mental health facilities and private homes need the services of trained CNAs and most of them are willing to offer them excellent insurance, vacation and retirement benefits, as well as a flexible schedule and in some situations a condensed work week.

CNA online study include courses in anatomy, nutrition, physiology, infection control and basic nursing skills. Students can complete their clinical work and get the hands on experience they need while studying online. Online students can continue to work and perform family responsibilities as they study. Classroom instruction tends to be more structured and demanding, so more students are choosing CNA training online to receive certification. Online courses can usually be completed in 6 to 12 weeks depending on the student’s study schedule. Once the course is completed a certification exam is required by most states. The National Association for Home Care also offers a national certification for those students who want to work as home health aids.