What Is the Difference Between a Certified Nurse & CNA?

Certified nurses assistants (CNA) and certified nurses work in the same field, but their duties and training are slightly different. They're both certified by their states to work in nursing.

Certified Nurses

Certified nurses are often licensed practical nurses or registered nurses who perform many major nursing duties, such as recording patients' blood pressure and preparing medications and meals for them. Certified nurses also hold bachelor's degrees in nursing, and some hold master's degrees.

Certified Nurses Assistants

The assistants do not work in supervisory roles as certified nurses, but they often assist the nurses in the daily activities on the job. CNAs do not usually hold bachelor's degrees. Instead, they take six- to 12-week courses at community colleges before taking a licensing exam.

Difference in Advancement Opportunities

Certified nurses can advance to greater positions within nursing because of their advanced education and years of experience in the field. They can become healthcare administrators or nursing professors. But CNAs will often have to get a bachelor's degree in order to advance, although some choose to remain assistants.

Difference in Salary

Certified nurses earn an average salary of $57,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and their salaries can increase in the event of a raise or promotion to a higher position. CNAs earn about $10.67 an hour.

Considerations

While there is a slight difference between these two careers, both serve to ensure that patients are comfortable and healthy. Nurses and their assistants also offer emotional support to their patients when needed.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Registered Nurses
• Bureau of Labor Statistics:

Resources

• Discover Nursing