When it comes to the world of healthcare, two of the most important roles are Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Registered Nursing Assistants (RNAs). Both positions are integral to the smooth functioning of a medical environment and play a vital role in helping patients feel comfortable and safe during their time in the hospital. However, there are some key differences between the two roles that set them apart. While they may seem similar at first glance, understanding the distinctions between CNAs and RNAs is essential for determining which role best suits a person’s skills and experience. In this blog post, we will explore the key differences between CNAs and RNAs, so that you can make an informed career decision.
What is an RNA?
An RNA is an advanced CNA. They may have received specialized training in therapeutic or rehabilitative techniques, and they may put those skills and knowledge to use while working under the close supervision of a licensed professional. RNAs can assist with preparing patients for procedures or carrying out rehabilitative exercises in addition to helping patients with activities of daily living and nurses with equipment and record-keeping.
RNAs receive additional training that teaches them how to perform range-of-motion exercises, transfer patients, and prepare patients for treatments and procedures.
What is a CNA?
A CNA is a nurse who assists in patient care while being watched over by a nurse. They can also work in long-term care settings such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and rehabilitation facilities, though they frequently work in environments like hospitals or mental health centers. CNAs provide care for patients by helping them with daily tasks. Along with moving, eating, and participating in activities, these tasks also include dressing, grooming, and bathing.
CNAs help registered nurses (RNs) with tasks like vitals recording and blood sugar monitoring. They stock supplies, document information and clean rooms and linens.
CNA vs. RNA: key differences
Work environments, responsibilities, and skill requirements are similar for RNAs and CNAs. Here is how the similarities compare:
Work environment
CNAs and RNAs support nurses and work in a range of medical facilities. They frequently work in homes, nursing homes, hospitals, and residential care facilities. CNAs and RNAs are typically full-time employees. Depending on the environment in which they work, they might put in eight or twelve hour shifts.
Responsibilities
Similar duties are shared by RNAs and CNAs for providing care for all of their patients. The primary duties of CNAs and RNAs overlap when it comes to helping patients with daily activities, keeping rooms and linens clean, and maintaining records. CNAs and RNAs work as members of a medical team, offering daily assistance to enhance the quality of life of their patients.
Skills
Some skills nursing assistants need to be successful include:
Differences between CNAs and RNAs
The educational requirements and level of specialization for RNAs and CNAs are different. Here are the key differences between these roles:
Education requirements
CNAs must earn certification through a CNA course. Although some high schools may offer a CNA certification course, typically entry into a CNA training program requires a high school diploma or equivalent. These programs are typically offered by community colleges, trade schools, and medical facilities. The length of a CNA certification program can range from four to eight weeks.
Prospective CNAs should, however, enroll in a training program that satisfies their state’s accreditation standards because CNA credentials differ from state to state. Individuals who successfully complete the program are required to pass a two-part certification exam that consists of both written and clinical sections.
Many RNA training programs demand that candidates be working CNAs. As a result, individuals interested in becoming RNAs should start by finishing a CNA program and gaining experience by working as a CNA. Before enrolling, the majority of programs demand that applicants have at least six months of CNA experience. RNA training programs typically last 18 to 24 months and combine classroom instruction with clinical practice.
Level of specialization
RNAs have a greater level of specialization than CNAs. In other words, they’ve received additional training in a variety of therapeutic modalities. With a patient’s rehabilitation exercises, they might support other medical personnel. They could assist a patient with a physical therapy exercise while working under the direction of a certified physical therapist, or they could help an occupational therapist by teaching a patient how to take care of themselves.
Average salary
How to choose between becoming a CNA or an RNA
Although the duties of CNAs and RNAs are similar, there are a number of things to take into account when deciding between these roles. You can choose the right job for you by considering your current level of training and experience, your educational objectives, and your career goals. The following factors should be taken into account when choosing between these careers:
1. Consider your current level of certification and nursing experience
Being a CNA gives those who are new to the healthcare industry and seeking an entry-level position the chance to interact directly with patients and healthcare professionals. Those who already hold their CNA certification and have prior nursing assistant experience might think about enrolling in an RNA training program to advance their careers. Consider your current level of education and experience to decide whether you should pursue a career as a CNA or advance your current CNA career as an RNA.
2. Consider your educational goals
CNAs in the field who want to further their education might think about enrolling in an RNA training course. Many of the skills CNAs have already learned are built upon in RNA training programs, which may be a good option for those looking to advance their education without pursuing an associate’s, bachelor’s, or other higher degree. Consider the educational level you want to pursue in light of your goals and how the program fits into your schedule. Certification programs may vary by affordability and accessibility.
3. Consider your professional goals
A great first step to pursuing an advanced nursing career as an RN or LPN is becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA). To enroll in a program leading to an advanced nursing degree, CNAs do not need to become RNAs. CNAs who do not want to pursue a career in advanced nursing, however, might think about switching to become RNAs in order to expand their skill sets and continue their professional development. Consider your professional interests, level of experience and certification, and the level of education needed to achieve your career goals as you consider your career and professional development goals.
DNA vs RNA (Updated)
FAQ
Is CNA harder than RN?
The RNA (Restorative Nursing Assistant) program equips CNAs with the knowledge and abilities they need to advance in the long-term care industry. This 16-hour, two-day course is only for Certified Nurse Assistants and consists of classroom lectures and lab exercises.
Do you need a degree to be an RNA?
Being an RN can be more difficult than being a CNA in some ways. You must make more judgment calls and decisions in general. In some ways, though, being a CNA can feel harder. The job may be more physical.
What are RNA duties?
A practicing CNA with at least six (6) months of experience after completing the CNA program is required for the RNA Course. The person should be suggested by the facility’s director of nursing, where they work. The individual should have a high school diploma or GED.
