Six Questions About Becoming a CNA

This article covers the top six things that you may want to consider if you're trying to decide whether or not to enroll in CNA classes.

There are certainly many more that could be added to this list as well, of course, but the six mentioned below should give most prospective certified nursing assistants a good idea if they'll be a fit for the job.

Top 6 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Becoming A CNA

Do I Like Helping Other People?

Because the CNA is essentially a person who supports other medical personnel and takes care of patients all day long, the first question you should ask yourself is "Do I like helping others?" If the answer is "yes", then you'll probably love the fact that a typical workday as a certified nursing assistant involves helping patients improve their physical, mental, and often emotional health.

Do I Like Making Friends?

If you're the social type and enjoy forming new relationships, working as a certified nurses aide will give you a number of opportunities to do just that.

You'll work side-by-side with not only other nursing assistants, but professionals from throughout the health care field - not to mention with your patients.

 Most CNAs find this part of the job to be the most-rewarding as the bonds built can lead to lifelong friendships and even opportunities to advance their careers.

Can I Work Flexible Hours?

Almost all nursing professionals are required to work varying hours at times.

 If this is something that sounds like it would be a problem for you, then you may want to rethink working in nursing.

 On the other hand, many certified nursing assistants see this aspect of the job as a benefit since most employers will work with them to give them the shifts that fit best into their personal lives.

Do I Like To Be Challenged By My Work?

People who enjoy multi-tasking and being constantly challenged by their work tend to do well in nursing.

When you're working as a CNA, you'll often be charged with providing support to doctors and other nurses, as well as attending to patients and performing a number of other duties.

The benefit of this is that the experience you gain by doing this makes you very attractive to hiring managers in a variety of other fields.

Do I Want To Move Up Quickly In My Career?

The majority of individuals who become nurses aides do so to get their foot in the door in nursing, and to use the position as a springboard to other jobs.

The job of the CNA is ideally suited for this purpose, thanks in large part to a few of the factors mentioned above.

Networking with other health care professionals, developing a diverse skillset and proving yourself under fire all help you advance quickly into other positions if that is your goal.

Am I Worried About Job Security?

With the difficult job market of the past several years, many workers are worried about layoffs and other cutbacks in their industries.

The health care industry has gone in the opposite direction during this time, however, with shortages for qualified personnel in many areas and a great need, in particular, for nurses.

 If you choose to become a CNA, this means that you'll face an employment landscape that is full of opportunity and security for many years to come!

How To Get Started As A CNA

So, after asking yourself these six questions, have you decided to become a CNA? If so, the first step you'll need to take is to enroll in an accredited training program.

 CNA courses are available from a variety of institutions and can provide you with the education you'll need to get started in nursing in as little as six weeks!