Experienced healthcare professional, Elmer Alegado, explains why people are choosing to be CNAs.
If you’re interested in joining the healthcare field quickly, the career path for a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) may be for you. According to Elmer Alegado, President of StrategiCareStaffing, certified nursing assistants significantly improve the lives of their patients. Plus, CNAs are some of the most essential members of healthcare teams, working closely with nurses and therapists.
The career is often chosen by adults who are passionate about making a difference and helping others. They assist patients with their daily activities, record vital signs, and coordinate schedules. Elmer Alegado notes that Certified Nursing Assistants also help their patients feel safe, comfortable, and cared for.
The nature of the role can be physically demanding. However, many people enjoy that aspect of the position because they can keep their bodies moving and active instead of sitting at a desk all day. Elmer Alegado notes that it’s the perfect career for people who like to stay busy and complete a variety of tasks. Each day is different because you’re working with different people who have changing needs.
As you can see, there are many great reasons to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. Elmer Alegado from StrategiCareStaffing explains the top reasons in more detail below.
1. Start working Fast
Candidates only need to have their high school diploma or GED to begin a Certified Nursing Assistant program. The average CNA course only takes about three months to complete. However, depending on the program, it can take anywhere from four to twelve weeks. Elmer Alegado explains that students will get 75 hours of classroom training at the minimum, plus training in clinical skills. Once you finish the program, you can take the state examination to begin working right away.
The demand for healthcare workers in the United States has continued to rise, especially for CNAs. Elmer Alegado notes that according to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, we will see about a 9% growth rate for CNAs through 2028, which is much higher than the average job growth rate of 5%. Graduates can start working fast, in the location they desire.
2. Build Experience
Many people start their careers as a CNA with plans to advance their careers in the future. Some want to save money for college, while others wonder if the healthcare field is even for them. Elmer Alegado explains that Certified Nursing Assistants have the opportunity to gain experience as a caregiver while researching other medical specialties and making connections in the field. Plus, having real-world experience as a CNA will make you a more qualified applicant for nursing schools.
3. Fulfillment
Elmer Alegado believes that a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant is one of the most fulfilling career options. CNAs contribute to each patient’s health and happiness, ensuring they receive the best quality of life possible with the utmost respect and dignity. There’s nothing like making a difference each and every day.