You’ve just finished another semester of nursing school. Or maybe you’re counting down the days until you start your first semester. Either way, it’s summer and you’re probably looking for something to do. While there are plenty of summer jobs, wouldn’t it be nice to have one related to your career in nursing? Spending your summer as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) might just be the right job for you, but there are a few things to know before you start applying.
What does a CNA do?
CNA’s have a number of responsibilities within their respective facilities. They provide a helping hand to nurses, giving the nurse time back to focus on more complex medical concerns. Responsibilities can include:
- Turning or repositioning patients
- Gathering and restocking supplies for the RN or MD
- Collecting vitals
- Answering patient calls
- Basic patient care including bathing, feeding, general hygiene activities, etc.
- Documentation
- Cleaning rooms and bed linens
- Helping with medical procedures
- Dressing wounds
This list is certainly not exhaustive, and responsibilities and roles can vary based on clinical settings.
The certification process
Like many jobs in the medical field, there are some requirements you must meet in order to become certified. First, you must have earned a high school diploma or GED. You’re then eligible to complete a state-approved CNA training program, either offered online or at a variety of different schools or institutions. These programs include at least 75 hours of classroom training. Following your course, you will complete in-person clinical training. To complete the process, you then must pass a state-approved competency exam. Once complete you are then able to apply for jobs.
Where to find jobs
You’re certified and ready to look for jobs. But where should you begin? While CNAs can work in an inpatient hospital setting, they are more commonly found in long-term residential facilities and rehabilitation centers. When looking for positions, online job websites are a great first stop. You can also look for postings within your university or talk to professors who may have connections in the field. As a growing career field, you’re sure to find some openings within your community.
Not sure if a CNA position is for you? Check out more ideas for summer jobs.