Nursing Assistants
Nursing assistants are healthcare heroes who provide hands-on care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities. They help patients with daily activities like bathing, eating, and moving around, while also monitoring vital signs using digital equipment and observing patients for any health changes. This role requires strong communication skills to work with nurses and doctors as part of a healthcare team. You can enter this field through certification programs at community colleges or vocational schools, making it an accessible path into healthcare.
Did you know?
Most states require Patient Care Assistants to complete a state-approved training program and pass a competency exam to obtain CNA certification.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$40,400 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Service Orientation
Things to consider
Physical and Emotional Demands
The role involves physically demanding tasks like lifting patients and emotionally challenging situations that require resilience and compassion.
Career Advancement Opportunities
PCAs can advance to higher-paying nursing roles like LPN or RN with additional education, benefiting from strong job growth in the healthcare sector.
Key responsibilities
Position or hold patients in position for surgical preparation.
Turn or reposition bedridden patients.
Remind patients to take medications or nutritional supplements.
Communicate with patients to ascertain feelings or need for assistance or social and emotional support.
Record vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse, or respiration rate, as directed by medical or nursing staff.