Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs CNA
An Acute Care Nursing Assistant (ACNA) is essentially a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with additional specialized training to work in acute care settings (like hospitals), whereas a CNA typically has basic certification to provide care in long-term or residential facilities. In other words, ACNAs are trained for hospital-based, acute patient care, while CNAs focus on basic daily care often in nursing homes or assisted living. Below we break down the key differences in training, work environment, scope of care, salary, and career growth so you can decide which path fits your goals.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Median Annual Wage (May 2023): ~$38,000
- Job Growth (2023–2033): ~4% (steady, reflecting an aging population).
- Settings: Nursing homes, rehab centers, assisted living, some hospital positions.
Acute Care Nursing Assistant (ACNA)
- No Separate BLS Category: Typically falls under “Nursing Assistants.”
- Higher Earning Potential: Hospital CNAs often earn more (e.g., $19–$20+/hour).
- Demand: Hospitals with high patient turnover rely on ACNA-level skills, opening more specialized roles.
Why the Difference? Hospital-based roles often come with shift differentials and a faster-paced environment, translating to higher pay and potential overtime opportunities.
CNA vs. ACNA: Which One Should You Pick?
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Choose CNA If…
- You enjoy long-term patient relationships (e.g., in nursing homes).
- You’re seeking a quick entry into healthcare with straightforward certification.
- You prefer a less hectic environment than an ER or surgical ward.
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Choose ACNA If…
- You thrive on a fast-paced hospital floor and want more advanced skills.
- You’d like to earn a higher hourly wage and have more complex patient care tasks.
- You want a stronger stepping stone toward PCT or nursing roles in acute care settings.
Both positions are in-demand and require relatively short-term training. Choose the one that resonates with your career goals and personal strengths—steady care vs. fast-paced medical settings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which is harder—CNA or ACNA?
ACNA can be more challenging due to acute patient needs and a high-pressure hospital setting. CNAs also face difficulties—especially physically and emotionally—but often at a more predictable pace. It depends on your preferred environment and stress tolerance.
Do ACNAs earn much more than CNAs?
Often yes. Hospital CNAs generally earn $2–$5 more per hour than those in nursing homes, depending on location. A 2023 BLS report indicates hospital-based nurse aides have higher median wages compared to other facilities.
Can a regular CNA work in a hospital?
Yes. Many hospitals hire CNAs without formal ACNA credentials, but they may provide on-the-job training. Having an acute care certificate can boost your hiring chances and speed up advancement.
Is ACNA a different license than CNA?
No. ACNA is a specialized certificate, not a separate license. You remain a CNA on your state’s registry, with an acute care credential recognized by employers.
Where do I find ACNA programs near me?
Check Dreambound for courses labeled “Hospital Nurse Aide,” “Acute Care Aide,” or “Patient Care Technician (PCT)”. You can also search local community college sites or inquire at hospitals offering in-house training.
Could I train as both a CNA and a Phlebotomist?
Yes. Some CNAs add phlebotomy certification to become a multi-skilled tech (PCT). This can increase pay and job prospects in hospital labs or emergency departments.
Conclusion
Both CNA and ACNA careers let you enter healthcare quickly. CNAs excel at long-term, day-to-day patient care, often in nursing homes. ACNAs build on CNA skills with additional acute care training for hospital or urgent settings, often earning higher pay and managing more varied tasks.
Which path you choose depends on your career goals, personality, and comfort level with complex, fast-paced procedures. Ready to begin? Browse Dreambound for CNA or Acute Care (PCT) programs near you, and check your state’s .gov board for any unique certification rules. You’ll be making a meaningful difference in patient lives—whether in long-term care or on the front lines of hospital care.
Ready to begin your healthcare journey? Explore programs that fit your goals:
Published in accordance with BLS.gov data and references to official .gov sites for program approval.
Jessa Guzon is a member of the School Growth and Customer Success Team in Dreambound. She finds joy in assisting both schools and students in reaching their goals by answering their queries and connecting them with the right people. Outside her professional role, Jessa is a happy-go-lucky person with a thirst for adventure.
