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What to Expect Working as a Nurse Aide

ah4612 | Nov 29, 2009 |

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The increasing elderly population combined with advances in technology in the medical field is increasing the demand for nurse aides. In fact the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 28 percent growth in nurse aide positions between 2006 and 2016. People looking for an entry-level position in the healthcare field may find this is the right position for them once they learn about a nurse's aide information and salary.

Job Responsibilities
The main function of a nurse aide is to provide personal care to residents in a medical facility, and this can include assisting them with bathing, eating, dressing or going to the bathroom. They also transport patients to different departments by aiding them in walking through a medical facility or pushing them in a wheelchair. Since the job of a nurse aide is considered entry-level in the healthcare field, people in this position assist nursing staff, who serve as their supervisors, with setting up equipment and obtaining supplies.

Working Environment
Nurse aides can work in any medical facility where there is a need for assistance, but they are most commonly found in nursing homes, assisted living centers and hospitals. These facilities house patients with the greatest need for assistance and personal care services. Since care is needed for patients 24/7, nurse aides may work in the evenings, at night or on weekends to meet the demands of the facility.

Skills Needed
Compassion and patience are two personal skills needed by nurse aides to be successful at their job. They also must have good communication and a positive attitude. Nurse aides who have a desire to make a difference in the lives of the residents they serve may last longer than others who get burnout or leave the profession for additional training in the healthcare field.

Training Required
Nurse aides are required to take a training class that teaches the skills and knowledge needed to be a certified nurse aide. The class can last anywhere from two weeks to six months depending upon the number of contact hours required by a student's state and the frequency and length of class meetings. After completing the training class, students can take the state exam and apply for certification, which allows them to work as a nurse aide in their state.

Salary
Nurse aides are paid hourly since some nurse aides work more or less than the typical, 40-hour work week. In 2008, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage for nurse aides was $11.84. However this can vary from eight dollars to more than $15 depending upon the experience of a nurse aide and the location of the facility where they work.