So, you are thinking about a career as a certified nursing assistant (CNA).

Well, that’s awesome!

The question is, do you have what it takes?

Keep reading to find out more…

If you are interested in becoming a CNA, you are in good company. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the workforce is made up of 1,564,300 nursing assistants and orderlies in the United States.

So, is there any room left for you?

Great question!

And the answer is yes.

Employment of nursing assistants is projected to grow by 11% percent from 2016 to 2026, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Growth will occur for a number of reasons.

As the baby-boom population ages, nursing assistants and orderlies will be needed to assist and care for elderly patients in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes. Older people are more likely than younger people to have disorders such as dementia, or to live with chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. More nursing assistants will be needed to care for patients with these conditions.

In addition, patient preferences and shifts in federal and state funding are increasing the demand for home and community-based long-term care, which should lead to increased opportunities for nursing assistants working in home health and community rehabilitation services.

Who is becoming a CNA?

According to datausa.io, 87.3% of the CNA workforce in the US is made up of women.

What personal qualities and characteristics make a good CNA?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following qualities are important to have as a certified nursing assistant:

Communication skills. Nursing assistants and orderlies must communicate effectively to address patients’ or residents’ concerns. They also need to relay important information to other healthcare workers.

Compassion. Nursing assistants and orderlies assist and care for the sick, injured, and elderly. Doing so requires a compassionate and empathetic attitude.

Patience. The routine tasks of cleaning, feeding, and bathing patients or residents can be stressful. Nursing assistants and orderlies must have the patience to complete these tasks.

Physical stamina. Nursing assistants and orderlies spend much of their time on their feet. They should be comfortable performing physical tasks, such as lifting or moving patients.

The bottom line: If becoming a certified nursing assistant is something you feel passionately about, the one word of advice we will give you is: Go for it!