A CNA is a Certified Nursing Assistant they provide essential daily care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and residential care facilities. They work under the supervision of Registered Nurses or Licensed Practical Nurses to help with activities of daily living. 

To become a CNA you must complete a state approved training program that is typically four to twelve weeks and then you have to pass a state approved competency exam and pass a background check. Programs are available at community colleges, vocational schools, and some healthcare facilities. You can also take the dual credit CNA class if it is offered by your school and college. 

Being a CNA comes with a lot of responsibility and challenge. You have to go to work everyday, they don’t close because of the weather you have to show up you can’t call in. Working at a nursing home or hospital is so different. They don’t close when it snows or on holidays you have to show up no matter what unless you’re sick. 

There is a severe and ongoing shortage of CNA’s in the United States which has reached critical levels as of 2026. The crisis exacerbated by the covid 19 pandemic is driven by high burnout, low wages, and a growing, aging population that requires more care.