Are you unsure if a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant is for you? While this dynamic and in-demand field is rising in popularity, deciding to take the leap into the medical industry can feel like a daunting task. Although this career isn’t for everyone, if you have a passion for helping others and wish to leverage your compassion with your interest in patient care, then you’ll likely find work as a CNA rewarding.
Career Building Opportunities for CNAs
One of the most common reasons why aspiring healthcare professionals begin their medical career as a Certified Nursing Assistant is due to its reputation of opening career building opportunities. This versatile career option offers you face-to-face encounters with the fast-paced realm of patient care. Perhaps the greatest benefit of this entry level position is its ability to explore the world of healthcare while gaining hands-on experience.
The Opportunity to Learn from Experienced Nurses
As a Certified Nursing Assistant, you’re able to learn the ins-and-outs of the nursing industry alongside experienced professionals. This is an excellent benefit, especially for those who are unsure if this industry is right for them. As a CNA, you get a front-row seat to the daily lives of Registered Nurses and physicians, without having to undergo years of intense (and expensive) training.
Not only does this opportunity help you decide if you wish to continue your nursing training, but if you do, you’ll enter school with a breadth of real world knowledge. This is an invaluable tool, as you’ll not only become a better CNA, but if you decide to continue schooling, you’ll have the bulk of foundational elements already perfected. Ultimately, this means you’ll perform better in school and increase your chances of landing the perfect nursing job.
Uncover Specialization Options
As a nurse, it’s possible to specialize in a variety of medical practices and treatment centers. While you may have a baseline understanding of what specializations may interest you, as a Certified Nursing Assistant, it’s possible to work in these specialized departments.
This first-hand experience can help you determine whether you actually want to continue schooling for a specific specialization. For example, if you have a desire to work with children, you can pursue a career as a pediatric CNA, while those interested in operating room jobs, a surgical CNA discipline may be for you. Regardless of your choice, this is an excellent opportunity to explore medical specializations while getting paid and gaining on-the-job experience.
Refining Your Nursing Skills via Hands-On Work
If you’ve already decided to build your career in the nursing industry, securing work as a Certified Nursing Assistant offers a unique chance to refine your overall nursing skills. While there’s a significant difference between CNA training programs and BSN nursing degrees, by working as a CNA, you’re able to learn essential skills for your upcoming career.
This ultimately means you’ll perform better in school and be a more well-rounded graduate, which is imperative to land your dream nursing job after graduation. In many cases, working as a CNA opens the door to a bright and profitable future career building.
