No, not everyone as those who have had problems with the law won’t be able to become a nursing aide. If you have had a criminal conviction you need to check the rules and see before you make any decisions about not applying. The majority of nursing assistants work with the elderly or infirm or incapacitated and these vulnerable people have to be protected.
How long does the certification last?
Your certification only lasts for a certain period of time. This could be a year or two years depending on where you live. You will have to have it renewed. In order to renew it you will need to prove that you have been working as a certified nursing assistant. Your supervisor will usually supply you with the proof you need, you need to be good with people and have a lot of patience. Some patients will have Alzheimer’s and similar illnesses and they can often be very difficult to deal with. You may be accused unfairly of doing various things but so long as you follow the rules you should be ok. Remember you have a duty of care to these people so if your supervisors or other nurses aren’t looking after them properly you have a duty to report it.
Is everyone suited to the role of certified nursing assistant?
Only certain people are suited to this role regardless of the fact it is relatively easy to pass the certification process. It can be emotionally stressful dealing with people who have lost their mental capacity and it is physically difficult looking after adults who no longer have the ability to look after themselves. You do not become a certified nursing assistant for glamour or money but because you have a love for people and want to help those less fortunate. You may find another medical career is more suitable once you have been working for a while. Many registered nurses started their career as a CNA. Other qualified nurses aides will decide to learn how to be an EKG technician instead.