What is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?

CNA stands for Certified Nursing Assistant. A CNA is a person who has received specialized training and has been certified to provide basic care to patients in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. The role of a CNA typically involves assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, as well as providing medication reminders, monitoring vital signs, and reporting any changes in the patient's condition to the nurse or other healthcare professionals.

CNA training programs are offered by vocational schools, community colleges, and some hospitals. These programs typically include both classroom instruction and clinical experience, and cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, nutrition, infection control, and patient care skills. After completing a CNA training program, individuals must pass a certification exam in order to become certified.

Certification requirements for CNAs vary by state, but most states require candidates to pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam. The NNAAP is a comprehensive exam that tests knowledge of basic nursing skills, as well as clinical skills such as taking vital signs and performing CPR.

Once certified, CNAs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health care agencies. They may also specialize in caring for patients with specific conditions, such as dementia or chronic illnesses.