In the healthcare industry, the roles and responsibilities of professionals can vary greatly. Two such roles are that of an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and a PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) provider. While both positions require a certain level of medical knowledge and skills, they are distinct in terms of their job descriptions, education and training requirements, as well as career outlook and salary potential. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and a PALS provider, to help you make an informed decision about which path may be right for you.

What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and PALS?

Acute Care Nursing Assistant: An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, also known as a Nurse Aide or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), is a healthcare professional who provides direct patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN). They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers, and are responsible for assisting patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. Acute Care Nursing Assistants also take vital signs, record patient information, and assist with medical procedures.

PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) Provider: PALS is a specialized training program designed for healthcare professionals who care for critically ill or injured infants and children. PALS providers are trained in advanced life support techniques specifically tailored for pediatric patients. They learn how to assess and manage pediatric emergencies, including respiratory distress, cardiac arrest, and shock. PALS providers work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, pediatric clinics, and emergency departments, and are responsible for providing immediate, life-saving interventions to pediatric patients in critical situations.

Difference between an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and PALS

While both Acute Care Nursing Assistants and PALS providers work in the healthcare industry and have a primary focus on patient care, there are several key differences between the two roles:

1. Scope of Practice:

   • Acute Care Nursing Assistants provide general patient care and assistance with activities of daily living.
   • PALS providers are trained in advanced life support techniques specifically for pediatric patients and are responsible for managing critical pediatric emergencies.

2. Patient Population:

   • Acute Care Nursing Assistants work with patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly.
   • PALS providers primarily work with infants and children, although they may also provide care to adolescents in some cases.

3. Level of Responsibility:

   • Acute Care Nursing Assistants work under the direct supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses and assist with basic patient care tasks.
   • PALS providers are expected to independently assess and manage pediatric emergencies, making critical decisions and providing life-saving interventions as necessary.

4. Training and Certification Requirements:

   • Acute Care Nursing Assistants typically complete a state-approved training program, which includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. They must also pass a competency exam to become certified.
   • PALS providers must complete a specialized training program, which includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice with pediatric mannequins and simulation equipment. They must also pass a written exam to become certified.

5. Job Settings:

   • Acute Care Nursing Assistants work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers.
   • PALS providers primarily work in hospitals, pediatric clinics, and emergency departments, where they are more likely to encounter critically ill or injured children.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs PALS: Job Description

Acute Care Nursing Assistant: The job description of an Acute Care Nursing Assistant includes a range of responsibilities related to patient care and support. Some of the key tasks performed by Acute Care Nursing Assistants include:

• Assisting patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
• Taking and recording vital signs, such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse.
• Assisting with medical procedures, such as wound care, catheterization, and specimen collection.
• Providing emotional support and comfort to patients and their families.
• Documenting patient information and reporting any changes in condition to the nursing staff.

PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) Provider: The job description of a PALS provider is focused on providing advanced life support to critically ill or injured pediatric patients. Some of the key tasks performed by PALS providers include:

• Assessing and managing pediatric emergencies, such as respiratory distress, cardiac arrest, and shock.
• Administering medications and interventions specific to pediatric patients.
• Performing advanced airway management techniques, such as intubation and ventilation.
• Coordinating with other healthcare professionals to ensure timely and appropriate care for pediatric patients.
• Documenting patient information and communicating with the healthcare team about the patient's condition.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs PALS: Education and Training

Acute Care Nursing Assistant: To become an Acute Care Nursing Assistant, individuals typically need to complete a state-approved training program. These programs are often offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare facilities. The training program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience, where students learn the necessary skills to provide patient care. After completing the training program, individuals must pass a competency exam to become certified as a nursing assistant.

PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) Provider: To become a PALS provider, healthcare professionals must complete a specialized training program that is specifically focused on pediatric advanced life support. These training programs are often offered by hospitals, medical schools, and professional organizations. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice with pediatric mannequins and simulation equipment. After completing the training program, individuals must pass a written exam to become certified as a PALS provider.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs PALS: Career Outlook and Salary

Acute Care Nursing Assistant: The career outlook for Acute Care Nursing Assistants is generally positive, with a projected growth rate of 8% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth is attributed to an aging population and an increased demand for healthcare services. The median annual wage for nursing assistants was $30,850 in May 2020, with the highest 10% earning more than $43,580.

PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) Provider: As PALS providers are typically healthcare professionals who already work in the medical field, their career outlook and salary potential may vary depending on their specific profession. However, having PALS certification can be a valuable credential for healthcare professionals who work with pediatric patients. It may enhance their job prospects and potentially lead to higher salaries or opportunities for advancement.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a career as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and becoming a PALS provider ultimately depends on your interests, skills, and career goals. If you enjoy providing general patient care and assisting with activities of daily living, a career as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant may be a good fit for you. On the other hand, if you have a passion for pediatrics and want to specialize in providing advanced life support to critically ill or injured children, becoming a PALS provider may be the right path for you. Consider your strengths, preferences, and long-term career aspirations when making your decision.

Discover the widespread reach of Dreambound's programs in various locations. Delve into the content of these blogs to gain a thorough understanding of the intricacies surrounding the two vocations, covering everything from requirements to valuable tips on starting your endeavor:

• Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Missouri
• PALS in Missouri
• Acute Care Nursing Assistant classes near you
• PALS classes near you