Quickfacts:
A Good Fit For:
Nursing assistants help provide basic care for patients in hospitals and residents of long-term care facilities.
Median Annual Salary:
$35,000
Data last updated August 2023
Job Description
Performs custodial tasks and assists with nursing duties in caring for patients, including psychiatric and rehabilitative patients. Performs direct and indirect patient care activities according to established policies and procedures, observes and reports changes in patient conditions and maintains a safe and clean patient and environment. For home services, may travel to patient home to render services. State certification required.
Patient Contact
High
Employment Outlook
Overall employment of nursing assistants and orderlies is projected to grow 9 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations. As the baby-boom population ages, nursing assistants and orderlies will be needed to assist and care for elderly patients.
Education
Certificate – < 1 Year
Most technical colleges as well as some medical schools offer a CNA program