National Certified Nursing Assistant Week- A Dedicated and Rewarding Career
June 13-19 is National C.N.A. (Certified Nursing Assistant) Week. Certified nursing assistants began working under the Red Cross program during World War I where they were trained to care for wounded soldiers. The career has continued to evolve over the years, becoming a key part of the healthcare team at almost all healthcare facilities.
Veterans Memorial Hospital utilizes C.N.A.s in patient care on both the inpatient floor of the hospital and as Home Care Aides in the Community and Home Care Department. C.N.A.s on the patient floor assist the patients with daily personal care, eating, walking, and being an advocate during their hospitalization.
Corinne Cook, RN, teaches the Certified Nursing Assistant course at NICC and knows the importance and great need for this professional position. She states, “I have always had a great respect for the special people in the C.N.A. profession. I have been very fortunate to work alongside some of the best C.N.A.s around!! I would best describe a C.N.A. as compassionate, caring, and giving. If you are looking into a career, either new to the workforce or considering a change, what better opportunity? NICC offers a 76-hour program that includes lectures, labs, and clinics to prepare you to enter this workforce. The C.N.A. courses are offered at various times and locations throughout the year. There are several opportunities for employment in the area. I would encourage everyone to take the time to give a special thanks to the C.N.A.s that are currently providing that exceptional care to the ill and elderly.”
The Home Care Aide position at Veterans Memorial Hospital also requires this C.N.A. certification. Home Care Aides can provide assistance with personal care including bathing, dressing, exercises, and support with other activities necessary to allow individuals to remain safely in the comfort of their own homes.
The hospital also utilizes students as part-time CNAs during high school which is a great way for students to explore medical careers. Many nursing students also work as CNAs while going to college for nursing to gain valuable experience.
For more information on the versatile Certified Nursing Assistant career, please call Veterans Memorial Hospital at 563-568-3411.
