Key Points:

• Acute Care Nursing Assistants provide basic patient care; CPR-BLS providers focus on emergency life-saving techniques.
• Acute Care Nursing Assistants typically earn more than CPR-BLS providers, but the pay can vary based on location and experience.
• Both roles are in demand.
• Acute Care Nursing Assistants require in-person training, while CPR-BLS training can be completed online or in-person.
• Acute Care Nursing Assistant training is generally more extensive and costly than CPR-BLS training.

When it comes to the healthcare industry, there are many different roles and certifications to consider. Two popular choices for those interested in healthcare are becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant or obtaining CPR-BLS certification. Both of these options offer unique opportunities to work in the medical field, but they also have their differences. In this blog post, we will explore the roles and responsibilities of an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and CPR-BLS certification, as well as the education and training required for each. We will also discuss the career outlook and salary potential for individuals pursuing these paths. By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of which option may be the best fit for you.

What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and CPR-BLS?

Acute Care Nursing Assistant:

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, also known as a CNA, is a healthcare professional who provides direct patient care in acute care settings such as hospitals and clinics. CNAs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and assist with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding patients. They also monitor vital signs, collect samples for testing, and assist with medical procedures.

CPR-BLS:

CPR-BLS stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation - Basic Life Support. It is a certification that teaches individuals how to respond to cardiac and respiratory emergencies. CPR-BLS certified individuals are trained to perform chest compressions, provide rescue breaths, and use automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in order to revive individuals in cardiac arrest or experiencing respiratory distress.

Difference between an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and CPR-BLS

While both an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and CPR-BLS certification involve working in the healthcare field, there are some key differences between the two:

Scope of Practice:

• Acute Care Nursing Assistants have a broader scope of practice and provide direct patient care under the supervision of RNs.
• CPR-BLS certified individuals primarily focus on emergency response and resuscitation techniques.

Job Setting:

• Acute Care Nursing Assistants work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
• CPR-BLS certified individuals can work in any setting where emergencies may occur, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, and public places.

Responsibilities:

• Acute Care Nursing Assistants provide hands-on patient care, including assisting with activities of daily living, monitoring vital signs, and collecting samples.
• CPR-BLS certified individuals are trained to respond to emergencies, providing life-saving care until medical professionals arrive.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs CPR-BLS: Job Description

Acute Care Nursing Assistant:

• Assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding patients.
• Monitor and record vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature.
• Collect samples for testing, such as urine or blood.
• Assist with medical procedures, such as wound care or catheter insertion.
• Communicate with patients and their families, providing emotional support and answering questions.

CPR-BLS:

• Perform chest compressions and rescue breaths to revive individuals in cardiac arrest.
• Use automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to restore normal heart rhythms.
• Assist with airway management, including clearing obstructions and providing rescue breaths.
• Administer basic life support techniques to individuals experiencing respiratory distress.
• Communicate with emergency medical services (EMS) and provide them with relevant information.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs CPR-BLS: Education and Training

Acute Care Nursing Assistant:

• Education: Acute Care Nursing Assistants typically need to complete a state-approved training program, which can range from a few weeks to several months. These programs are often offered by vocational schools, community colleges, and healthcare facilities.
• Certification: After completing the training program, individuals must pass a competency exam to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA). The exam includes a written portion and a skills demonstration.
• Additional Training: Some Acute Care Nursing Assistants may choose to pursue additional certifications or specializations to expand their career opportunities, such as becoming a Certified Medication Aide (CMA).

CPR-BLS:

• Education: CPR-BLS certification courses are typically offered by organizations such as the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Red Cross. These courses can range from a few hours to a full day.
• Certification: Upon completion of the course, individuals receive a CPR-BLS certification, which is valid for a certain period of time (usually two years). Recertification is required to maintain the certification.
• Continuing Education: CPR-BLS certified individuals may need to complete periodic refresher courses or updates to stay current with the latest techniques and guidelines.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs CPR-BLS: Career Outlook and Salary

Acute Care Nursing Assistant:

• Career Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of nursing assistants is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for CNAs is driven by the aging population and the need for long-term care services.
• Salary: The median annual wage for nursing assistants was $29,640 in May 2020, according to the BLS. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $21,960, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $41,030.

CPR-BLS:

• Career Outlook: CPR-BLS certification is not a standalone career, but rather a valuable skill that can enhance employment opportunities in various healthcare roles. The demand for individuals with CPR-BLS certification is high in healthcare settings, as well as in industries such as education, public safety, and fitness.
• Salary: The salary for individuals with CPR-BLS certification varies depending on the specific job and industry. For example, a healthcare professional with CPR-BLS certification may earn a higher salary than a fitness instructor who also holds the certification.

Final Thoughts

Both becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and obtaining CPR-BLS certification offer unique opportunities to work in the healthcare field. If you are interested in providing direct patient care and working under the supervision of registered nurses, becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant may be the right path for you. On the other hand, if you are passionate about emergency response and want to be prepared to save lives in cardiac and respiratory emergencies, obtaining CPR-BLS certification may be the best choice.

Consider your interests, career goals, and the level of education and training you are willing to commit to when making your decision. It's important to thoroughly research both options and speak with professionals in the field to gain a better understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities, education requirements, and career outlook for each path. Ultimately, choosing the right path for you will depend on your individual preferences and goals in the healthcare industry.

Dreambound extends its programs to diverse locations. Delve deeper into information about these two vocations by visiting:

• Acute Care Nursing Assistant in California
• CPR-BLS in California
• CPR-BLS classes near you