How to Become a Nursing Aide / Assistant

Why Become a Nursing Aide or Assistant?

Nursing aides, also called medical assistants or nursing assistants, are responsible for assisting other healthcare professionals to ensure that the needs of the patient are met. Because of the growing elderly population, many nursing aides, orderlies, and attendants will be needed in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes.

Nursing aides and assistants provide basic care for patients in hospitals and residents of care facilities. Typical duties include: cleaning and bathing residents, helping patients use restroom facilities, reposition and assist in wheelchair use, report health concerns, measure vital signs, serving meals, providing care and attention and build patient relationships. This is a position that requires patience, dedication, attention and helping to make the patient feel comfortable.

Being a nursing assistant is also a great first step on your path to a more advance nursing career like registered nursing, nursing midwife, or licensed practical nurse. Nursing aides work as part of a larger team of specialists and report to vocational nurses or registered nurses.

Recommended Courses to Help You Become a Nursing Assistant

• Home Health Aide Theory
• Intro to Hospice Nursing
• Nursing Assistant I
• Nursing Assistant II
• Medical Aide
• Advanced Nurse Aid Clinical

Degrees for Nurse Assisting Careers

A degree in nursing assistance is the quickest way to start a career in the medical industry. Most healthcare institutions and hospitals require you to become certified with an accredited program, as well as passing a licensing exam. After earning a degree in nursing assisting, you will be in a position to continue your education and become and LPN, RN, physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner.

Nursing Aide Associate of Applied Science
An Associate of Applied Science is typically a two year program which prepares students for entry level positions in the nursing industry. This curriculum provides knowledge, skills and strategies to provide safe and valuable care in a variety of nursing settings. Course work expands upon the domains of healthcare, nursing practice, and individual care. Classes emphasize the nurse as a member of the interdisciplinary team providing specialized care while taking the first step to a career in the medical community.

Nurse Aide Certificate
This program is designed to give graduates the skills required for an entry-level position within a number of different care facilities.  This certificate typically requires 3-6 months to complete and will give you the general knowledge to launch a career in the nursing profession.