The Red Cross chapter in Santa Rosa, California began a nurse assistant education program in 1993 which has since produced approximately 1,600 graduates. Even more impressive is the fact that the number of students in the program has increased by more than 100% over the last two years, with 350 trainees and a waiting list. The Red Cross runs three simultaneous sessions consisting of 160 hours of instruction at a cost of just under $1,400.
The Red Cross program is typical of what’s being seen in today’s nurse assistant field. Programs are springing up at Red Cross chapters all around the country as well as community colleges, nursing schools, hospitals, and public health clinics. Even private companies that provide in-home nurse staffing have begun operating their own nurse assistant education programs to keep up with the demand. And that demand, which is expected to result in the hiring of 1.3 million nurse assistants over the next six years, is not expected to slow down anytime soon.
Not for Everyone
Many of the Santa Rosa graduates head directly to nursing homes and assisted living centers upon graduation. That’s true whether or not they are continuing their education to become licensed practical nurses. The reason for this migration to such facilities rests in the fact that America’s aging population is the main driving force behind the need for more nurse assistants. Nursing homes and assisted living facilities hire the most nurse assistants because their needs are greatest.
Understanding that, it’s easy to see that being a nurse assistant is not a job for everyone. It’s certainly not glamorous by any stretch of imagination. It’s also not much fun if you have a low tolerance for elderly patients, individuals lacking the mental capacity to understand the care you’re providing, and people who are fairly immobile and require your assistance. It is a job that requires compassion, diligence, and a great deal of physical and emotional strength. But for those who are fruitful in this field, is a job that’s incredibly rewarding.
What to Expect
Students and new graduates from nurse assistant programs need to be prepared that they are entering the healthcare field at the very bottom. The nurse assistant is one of the entry-level jobs many individuals use as a springboard to more advanced careers. A typical salary in the Northern California region is between $12 and $16 per hour; some employers offer excellent benefits while others don’t. Nurse assistants who love their career choice and don’t seek higher education can make an excellent living throughout their lifetimes. Those who want to move further up the ladder can continue their education as they work.
If you’re interested in becoming a nurse assistant there’s probably a program or two in your local area. You might start by contacting your local Red Cross, community college, or hospital, and ask for their recommendations. In no time at all, you can be certified and get right to work.
