Pros and Cons of Becoming a CNA : Love in Action

Becoming a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) is a big decision, and it’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons of this career before making a commitment. CNA work is all about love in action, as CNAs provide vital care and support to patients, bringing comfort, compassion, and kindness to those in need. However, being a CNA also has its challenges, and it’s important to understand both the rewards and drawbacks of this career before taking the plunge. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of becoming a CNA, and how this rewarding career can bring joy and meaning to your life.

Despite the great number of people who lament the day that they chose to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (aka CNA), this nursing career is nevertheless a prestigious profession, and we highly respect the CNAs for the job they do. However, we won’t think it wise of you to sign into a CNA school just because your compassionate heart aches at the sight of sick & disable people and you feel like doing something for the betterment of their life.

Questions like “what if you can’t handle the CNA’s job duties…what if you discover your passion is in another field?” should be thought over before you decide on the CNA career. To ease your decision, we have here compiled a list of the pros and cons of being a CNA.

# Pros Of Becoming a CNA :– Appeals Of The Nursing Career!  

1. Making A Difference In Other People’s Life Is A Noble Thing To Do (Huh?)!

Recognized as the major workforce of the healthcare industry, the Certified Nursing Assistants are entrusted with the job responsibility of providing professional nursing services (like feeding, bathing, grooming etc.) to the ill and disable persons. In other words, as a CNA, you have to devote yourself to the service of the patients, helping them in every way possible in fundamental life chores to the

2. Becoming A CNA Is A Piece OF Cake (Short Training Period)!

Candidates pursuing the CNA career don’t have to attain any time-consuming degrees, nor do they need to go through an excruciating training procedure. After all, there’s really no such vast difference between the services of a CNA to the patients and that of a mother to her child. With just 2 to 8 weeks long CNA training program, you can finish the CNA training (both the theoretical and clinical course), and then get licensed from your state to get employed in the hospitals and nursing homes as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

3. Jobs For CNAs Are Found In Abundance, With Appealing Health Benefits!

The greater the number of patients in a hospital, nursing home or such old age homes, the higher the demand for the CNAs and their professional nursing services would be. Thus, with consideration over the ageing population (and the current CNAs being promoted to higher nursing posts like that of LPNs), we can assert with confidence that there will always be a job for the CNAs.

Likewise, it should also interest you to know about the health insurance policy that you get to enjoy as a crucial member of the patient care team.

4. Versatile Working Hours To Choose Between (Day, Evening & Night Shifts)!

Since the patients require 24 hour monitoring, the hospitals and nursing homes require the CNAs to work round the clock. But, seeing that one CNA cannot work continuously for 24 hours, the patient care facilities have organized their CNA staffs into different time shifts of 8 or 12 hours interval.

Thus, as a CNA, you may work in the morning shift (usually from 6 am to 2pm), or the day shift extending from 2pm to 10 pm or even the night shift, where you gotta walk around the patient ward from 10pm to 6am. Mind you, the private nursing homes may have their own time provisions, with 7, 9 or 12 hours working shifts.

# Cons of Becoming a CNA :–Things We Hate About The CNA’s Job!

1. It’s A Hair-Pulling Mentally & Physically Challenging Job With Too Many Patients To Care For!

Earlier I told you about how similar the mother’s and a CNA’s job are. Well, I forgot to mention one point though– while mothers generally have to rear one (or two) child at a time, the CNAs are charged with the care of 10 to 20 adult patients. Imagine yourself in a room with a crowd of patients, all beckoning you for immediate assistance. It’s certainly too much to handle for a single person.

2. CNA’s Are Responsible To Clean Up All The Dirty Mess!

CNA schools may have gave you training on how to position the patient, how to transfer him from bed to wheelchair but they don’t really train you, for whatever reason, about cleaning up the butts of the sick patients and those disgusting vomits.

And irritatingly so, some patients are not gonna say “May I go to toilet?” or you might be too busy with another patient to hear his/her toilet emergency. As a result, the patients would fall victim to the act of incontinency, ruing their clothes and the bed sheet too. Now, imagine who would be charged to clean up all this dirty mess? Of course, YOU!

3. Fraught With The Health Peril Of Becoming Infected From Patient’s Diseases!

Getting a CNA license doesn’t make you immune to diseases and infections and neither does it stop germs from attacking you. The health risk increases with the fact that CNAs have to be in direct contact with the diseased patients, not to mention all those dirty works that they have to do. Hence, there’s no knowing when you may end up being infected by your patient’s diseases, and become a patient yourself.

4. Bad Pay, Really Bad pay, Really Really Bad pay!

Considering all those demanding job responsibilities of a CNA, you might think the pay should be good but the health industry, it seems, has only a petty $25000 yearly salary to offer in exchange for all those physically and mentally challenging nursing duties.

5. Patients May File Lawsuits For Unintentional Accidents/Mistakes!  

The health risks are nothing to be fearful of the CNAs since your employer does offer you a complete health insurance. It’s rather the unjustified or seemingly cruel lawsuits that you have to fear, since some patients, in order to make some quick money, may file a case against you for malpractices.

6. CNAs May Even Have To Work On Weekends & Holidays!

In a worker’s life, holidays are like a celebration…it’s a time for respite and a time to spend quality time with your family. However, most CNAs don’t even get to indulge in such common luxuries, since the disable patients require 24 hour care (don’t worry, CNAs are only subjected to 8 or 12 hours working shift).

In fact, have you ever heard of such hospitals and nursing homes, which close for holidays and festivals? Probably, not! Hence, as the major workforce of the healthcare industries, CNAs may not get respite on holidays, and if you have sign up for an on-call job position, then expect to address hospital calls at weekends and  odd hours.

How to Become a CNA?

To become a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant), you will need to complete the following steps:

1. Enroll in a CNA training program: CNA training programs are typically offered through community colleges, vocational schools, and other training organizations. These programs typically include both classroom instruction and clinical practice, and they cover topics such as patient care, communication, and basic nursing skills.
2. Pass a certification exam: After completing your CNA training program, you will need to pass a certification exam in order to become a CNA. The certification exam typically consists of a written (or oral) portion and a skills demonstration, and it is designed to test your knowledge and skills as a CNA.
3. Obtain a state license: In most states, you will need to obtain a state license in order to work as a CNA. This typically involves submitting an application and paying a fee, and you may also need to pass a background check.
4. Find employment: Once you are certified and licensed, you can begin looking for CNA job openings in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and more. It is a good idea to check with the specific state or employer to determine their requirements for CNA certification and employment.

Overall, becoming a CNA requires a combination of education, training, and certification, and it can be a rewarding and fulfilling career for those who are dedicated to caring for others.

How long does it take to become a CNA?

The amount of time it takes to become a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) can vary depending on the specific training program and individual circumstances.

Most CNA training programs take between four to twelve weeks to complete, depending on the program and the location. These programs typically include both classroom instruction and clinical practice, and they cover topics such as patient care, communication, and basic nursing skills.

After completing a CNA training program, you will need to pass a certification exam in order to become a CNA. The certification exam typically consists of a written (or oral) portion and a skills demonstration, and it is designed to test your knowledge and skills as a CNA. The length of time it takes to prepare for and pass the certification exam can vary depending on the individual’s study habits and the specific requirements of the exam.

In addition to the training and certification process, you may also need to obtain a state license in order to work as a CNA. This typically involves submitting an application and paying a fee, and it may also involve a background check. The length of time it takes to obtain a state license can vary depending on the specific state requirements and the individual’s circumstances.

Overall, the length of time it takes to become a CNA can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the specific training program and the individual’s progress.

Benefits of becoming a CNA Online

It is possible to become a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) through online training programs, although the specific requirements and options may vary by state.

Online CNA training programs typically involve a combination of online coursework and clinical practice, and they cover the same topics as in-person programs, including patient care, communication, and basic nursing skills. Some online programs may also offer additional resources, such as tutoring or mentor support, to help students succeed.

To become a CNA through an online program, you will typically need to meet the same eligibility requirements as for in-person programs, such as being at least 18 years old and having a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to complete the required coursework and clinical practice, and pass the certification exam in order to become a CNA.

It is important to note that online CNA programs may have different requirements and expectations than in-person programs, and it is a good idea to carefully research and compare your options before enrolling. It is also important to check with the specific state or employer to determine their requirements for CNA certification and employment, as these may vary.

There are several potential benefits to becoming a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) through an online training program:

1. Flexibility: One of the main advantages of online CNA training is the flexibility it offers. Online programs allow you to complete coursework and clinical practice on your own schedule, which can be especially useful for students who have other commitments or responsibilities.
2. Convenience: Online CNA programs can also be more convenient than in-person programs, as you don’t need to worry about commuting to a physical location for classes or clinical practice. This can save time and money, and allow you to complete your training from the comfort of your own home.
3. Affordability: Online CNA programs may also be more affordable than in-person programs, as they often have lower tuition costs and may not require additional expenses such as transportation or housing.
4. Variety: There may also be a wider range of online CNA programs available, allowing you to choose a program that best fits your needs and goals.

Overall, becoming a CNA through an online program can be a convenient and flexible way to build the skills and knowledge needed for this rewarding career. It is important to carefully research and compare your options, and to check with the specific state or employer to determine their requirements for CNA certification and employment.

Is becoming a CNA worth it?

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) can be a rewarding career choice for individuals who are interested in working in the healthcare field and helping others. Some benefits of being a CNA include:

1. Opportunities for career advancement: Many CNAs go on to become registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs) after gaining experience and furthering their education.
2. Flexible work schedule: CNAs often have the option to work part-time or full-time, and may be able to choose their shifts.
3. Competitive pay: The median hourly wage for CNAs in the United States is $14.35 per hour.
4. Personal satisfaction: Many CNAs find a great sense of fulfillment and purpose in helping others and making a difference in the lives of their patients.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that being a CNA can also be physically and emotionally demanding, as you will be working with patients who may be sick, injured, or otherwise in need of assistance. If you are considering becoming a CNA, it’s important to think carefully about whether this career is right for you and to make sure that you have the necessary skills and qualities to succeed in this role.

What is the next step after becoming a CNA?

After becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), there are several career paths that you can pursue, depending on your interests and goals. Some options include:

1. Becoming a registered nurse (RN): Many CNAs go on to become RNs by completing a bachelor’s degree in nursing and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
2. Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN): Some CNAs choose to become LPNs by completing a practical nursing program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
3. Pursuing further education: You may also choose to continue your education by completing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field, such as healthcare administration or public health.
4. Advancing within your current role: As a CNA, you may also have the opportunity to take on additional responsibilities or move into a leadership position within your current organization.

It’s important to keep in mind that different career paths will require different levels of education and training, and you should carefully consider your goals and what you are most interested in before deciding on the next step in your career.

Conclusion of Pros and Cons of Becoming a CNA : Love in Action

In conclusion, becoming a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) is a rewarding and fulfilling career that allows individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of others. CNA work is all about love in action, as CNAs provide vital care and support to patients, bringing comfort, compassion, and kindness to those in need. However, becoming a CNA also has its challenges, and it’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons of this career before making a decision.

The pros of becoming a CNA include the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, the sense of purpose and fulfillment that comes with caring for others, and the potential for job stability and advancement. The cons of becoming a CNA may include the physical and emotional demands of the job, the potential for low pay in some cases, and the need to complete training and certification before beginning work.

Overall, the decision to become a CNA is a personal one that requires careful consideration of your goals, values, and interests. If you are passionate about caring for others and are willing to put in the work to become a CNA, this rewarding career can bring joy and meaning to your life.