When we talk of the most highly coveted career for most people, it is impossible to rule out nursing, as one of them. A career in nursing starts with the level of Home Health Aid (HHA). A person passionate to take care of other people and pursue a career in nursing can start by serving as HHA. Some of the duties performed by HHAs include helping the people they are taking care of to bathe, dress, and cater to other hygiene needs. Additionally, the HHA can prepare meals for the person, perform laundry and other housekeeping duties, and go shopping for groceries. Usually, HHAs have a high school diploma or a GED. Licensing and formal nursing education are not necessary at this level. All that a person needs to have to become an HHA is the attitude and passion to serve and take care of others.
What is the next step?
From the HHA, the next step is to advance to the level of Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Unlike the HHA, formal education and training are necessary for one to transition from HHA to CNA; one has to pass the state licensing exam to be certified. Like the HHAs, CNAs also work in the home settings, helping their clients to accomplish certain basic activities. For instance, they help people eat, dress and bathe. However, CNAs are able to perform some tasks that the HHA cannot perform. For instance, at the level of CNA, one will be able to administer medication, monitors signs among the clients, and document changes in the health conditions of the people under their care. Many of the CNAs are primary caregivers, having more contact with patients than any other healthcare professionals.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) level.
From the CNA, the next step is to advance to the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) level. This happens when a person with a GED or high school diploma graduates from an accredited LPN program. This program comprises of one-year coursework and practical application at a recognized healthcare organization or facility such as a hospital, community health center, or vocational training college. The LPN works under close supervision of a registered nurse (RN) and other healthcare professionals. The scope of duties and responsibilities of LPNs may vary depending on the setting of the working environment. However, primarily, LPNs bathe, dress, and feed patients. Additionally, these people also monitor vital signs among the patients. Some of these signs include the blood pressure and the temperature of the patients. They report directly to the registered nurses and other healthcare professionals under whose supervision they work.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
From the LPN, one can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This is a four-year course, after which one earns the designation of Registered Nurse (RN). In the position of an RN, one will be able to observe the patients, speak to them, and assess them to understand their health condition. Additionally, RNs also record the current symptoms of the patients as well as the details of their health history. They then administer treatment or medications to patients and monitor the reactions and side effects of such treatment among the patients. The RN can pursue Masters in nursing or clinical practices to advance to the next level, Advanced Practice Nurse (APN). The APNs execute duties and responsibilities similar to those of doctors. Some of these duties include assessing patients, making diagnoses, and administering treatment. Generally, a career in nursing starts with little or no formal education, where one serves as HHA to a level where one does a master’s and Ph.D. in nursing.
Finding the right Nursing School
Many nursing students find it very important to find a nursing school that is worth investing in as it impacts how successful their future nursing career will be. Many schools lack sincerity, compassion, and dedication when it comes to making sure each nursing student is successful. Why not invest in a school which cares about your success as a nurse?
Hence, having a school that cares about the success of its students is something every future nursing student should want for themselves. A school, which delivers on that promise is Truth Health Academy, they are located in Sunrise, FL; they even offer online classes. In other words, Truth Health Academy cares about your success by making sure every one of its past students is employed. Also, the best part; as a past nursing student they offer benefits and job placements for you forever. So, when you are ready to find a CNA class near you, to become a Certified Nursing Assistant or Nursing Assistant (NA), Truth Health Academy is the nursing school to put your trust in.
