Nursing assistants are key players in the lives of the people in their care. Each day, more than 4.5 million caregivers provide hands-on care to our nation's frail, elderly, or chronically challenged citizens in their own homes, nursing homes and other long term care settings. And 700,000 new positions will need to be filled in the next 25 years.
Nursing Assistants provide as much as 80 to 90 percent of the direct care received by residents and clients in long term care facilities.
A 2011 study found that Certified Nursing Assistants were exceptionally faithful workers. Because they stay in care-giving positions, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) provide predictability and stability. They enhance the feeling of security for our aging or physically challenged citizens.
Among the findings of the CNA study:
28 percent stay 5 or more years as nursing assistants, and 12 percent stay 10 to 55 years.
They value job security and peer relationships.
They are considered to be health care experts in their own families.
The majority had a positive experience with an older person early in life.
They bring wisdom, patience, humor, and a general attitude of caring to the daily lives of their patients.
Nursing Assistants with 20 or more years of service are invited to become members of the National 20-Year Club, now in its 36th year nationwide.
