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
Document or otherwise report observations of patient behavior, complaints, or physical symptoms to nurses.
Clean and sanitize patient rooms, bathrooms, examination rooms, or other patient areas.
Supply, collect, or empty bedpans.
Restock patient rooms with personal hygiene items, such as towels, washcloths, soap, or toilet paper.
Lift or assist others to lift patients to move them on or off beds, examination tables, surgical tables, or stretchers.