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CNA Articles

Practical advice for CNAs and caregivers: getting started, the day-to-day job, and building your career.

New nursing assistant with a senior coworker in a hallway
On the JobWorking Night Shift as a CNA: Pay, Health, and How to CopeNight shift CNA guide: what the work involves, shift differentials, and NIOSH guidance on fatigue, sleep, and safety for health care workers.
Jobs and CareersTravel CNA Jobs: How They Work and What to Know Before You GoHow travel CNA jobs work: short-term contracts, getting certified in each state (there is no compact license for CNAs), and what to check in an offer.
Jobs and CareersHospital CNA vs Nursing Home CNA: Pay, Jobs, and What the Work Is LikeHospital vs nursing home CNA jobs compared: where CNAs work, median pay by setting from BLS, and how the work differs.
On the JobCharting Tips for CNAs: How to Document Care the Right WayHow CNAs should chart: what to document, writing accurate and timely entries, correcting mistakes, and protecting resident privacy.
On the JobCaring for Residents With Dementia: Communication Tips for CNAsPractical dementia care tips for CNAs: communication, responding to agitation and sundowning, and the non-drug approaches CMS encourages.
On the JobInfection Control Basics for CNAs: Hand Hygiene, PPE, and PrecautionsCDC infection control basics for CNAs: when to use hand sanitizer vs soap, standard and isolation precautions, PPE order, and Enhanced Barrier Precautions.
On the JobSafe Lifting for CNAs: How to Protect Your Back on Every ShiftHow CNAs can avoid back injuries: what NIOSH and OSHA say about lifting residents, when to use lift equipment, and body mechanics tips.
Getting StartedHow Old Do You Have to Be to Become a CNA? Minimum Age by StateThe minimum age to become a CNA: what federal and state rules say, the states that set an age (16 or 18), and how programs and employers handle teens.
Jobs and CareersHow to Write a CNA Resume With No Experience (Sample Included)How to write a CNA resume with no work experience: what to include, how to describe clinicals and past jobs, and a free sample resume.
Jobs and CareersCNA Interview Questions and Answers: 10 Questions You'll Probably Be AskedThe most common CNA interview questions with example answers, plus what to wear, what to bring, and questions to ask the employer.
On the JobYour First Week as a New CNA: What to Expect and How to Get Through ItWhat to expect in your first week as a CNA: orientation, shadowing, your first assignment, and practical tips to start strong.
Getting StartedIs CNA Training Hard? An Honest Look at the Classes, Clinicals, and ExamAn honest look at CNA training: how hard the classes, clinicals, and state exam are, what makes it challenging, and tips to succeed.
Getting StartedWhat Happens If You Fail the CNA Exam? Retakes, Fees, and How to Pass Next TimeFailed the CNA exam? How retakes work, what they cost in different states, and practical ways to pass the written and skills tests next time.
Getting StartedHow Long Does CNA Training Take?How long CNA training takes in your state: required hours, full-time and part-time timelines, and how long the exam and registry steps add.
On the JobThe Silent Struggle: Mental Health and Burnout in CNAsHow burnout affects CNAs, the warning signs to watch for, practical ways to cope, and where to get free, confidential support.

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