What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant?

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, also known as an ACNA, is a dedicated healthcare professional who provides essential care in acute settings like hospitals or urgent care centers. ACNAs work closely with registered nurses and other healthcare staff, helping with tasks such as taking vital signs, assisting with personal hygiene, and offering emotional support to patients and their families.

Compared to Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), ACNAs take on more advanced duties. While CNAs focus on basic patient care, ACNAs undergo more extensive training—often including an associate's degree or certificate program. This additional training prepares ACNAs for more complex responsibilities, which is why they typically earn a higher salary than CNAs.

What does an ACNA do?

ACNAs plays a vital role in providing specialized care for patients in busy settings like hospitals and urgent care centers. Here’s a closer look at what an ACNA typically does:

• Assist with advanced patient care: Regularly helps patients with daily needs such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They’re also there to assist with bedpans, urinals, and commodes, ensuring patients are comfortable and cared for.

• Monitor and report: Keeps a close eye on patients’ vital signs and overall condition, regularly recording and reporting any changes to the healthcare team to ensure timely and effective care.

• Provide emotional support: Offers a comforting presence and reassurance to patients and their families, helping them navigate the stress and uncertainty that often comes with being in the hospital.

• Facilitate patient mobility: Assists with moving and repositioning patients, whether it’s transferring them between beds, chairs, and stretchers or helping with range of motion exercises to keep them comfortable and active.

• Ensure a safe and clean environment: Maintains a tidy and organized patient environment, managing supplies and ensuring that everything is in place to keep patients safe and the space welcoming.

• Document and communicate: Accurately records all aspects of patient care and communicates any significant changes or concerns to the nursing staff to keep everyone on the same page.

• Aid in medical procedures: Occasionally helps with various medical tasks, such as pre- and post-operative care, and other special procedures as needed, always under the direction of healthcare professionals.

• Support hospital functions: From helping with patient admissions and discharges to managing call lights and performing routine cleaning, ACNAs support hospital operations to keep things running smoothly.

Where does an ACNA work?

ACNAs are primarily employed in settings that require immediate and intensive patient care. Their work locations include:

• Hospitals: ACNAs are commonly found in general and specialized hospital units, including pediatrics, adult care, and obstetrics, where they provide essential support to patients with acute needs.

• Emergency Rooms: In emergency settings, ACNAs assist with rapid and effective patient care, managing critical situations and supporting the emergency care team.

• Urgent Care Centers: These facilities offer another vital setting for ACNAs, where they help manage urgent medical conditions that require prompt attention.

How to become ACNA?

To become an ACNA, you'll need to check off a few key requirements, find a solid training program, and pass your certification exam. After that, it's all about applying for your certification and checking any specific local requirements—because each state has its own rules.

Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process:

1. Get the basics sorted: First things first—make sure you’re at least 18 years old and have a government-issued ID. You’ll also need a Social Security Number and either a high school diploma or GED. Being comfortable with English is important too, as you'll need to communicate effectively in your role.

2. Find a training program: Look for a state-approved nursing assistant or aide training program. These programs usually combine classroom learning with hands-on practice and typically last between 4 to 12 weeks. Expect to invest about $1,300 to $1,500 for your training—it’s a valuable investment in your future!

3. Pass the certification exam: Once your training is complete, you'll need to pass a certification exam that tests both your knowledge and practical skills. This step is crucial to proving you’re ready for the demands of the job.

4. Apply for certification: After acing your exam, you’ll apply for certification through a recognized organization like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). You’ll submit proof of your training and exam results, and pay a certification fee. Keep in mind, certification is usually valid for two years, so renewal will be part of your ongoing career.

5. Check local requirements: Because different states have their own rules, it’s a good idea to check with your state’s nursing assistant registry. Some states might have additional requirements, such as background checks or specific certifications.

6. Create your resume: Craft a compelling resume that highlights your new ACNA certification and the advanced skills you’ve gained. Make sure to include relevant training and any practical experience you’ve acquired. A well-prepared resume can make a big difference in catching the attention of potential employers.

7. Start your job search: Begin looking for job openings in acute care settings such as hospitals and urgent care centers. Utilize your updated resume to apply for ACNA jobs that align with your qualifications. Networking with healthcare professionals and attending job fairs can also provide valuable opportunities to connect with potential employers.

Already a CNA and thinking about advancing to an ACNA? Here’s a friendly and straightforward guide to help you make that transition smoothly:

1. Build on your CNA experience and choose the right ACNA class: You’ve got a solid foundation from your CNA work, so now it’s time to level up. Look for an ACNA training program that builds on what you know, focusing on the unique challenges of acute care. These programs usually combine classroom learning with hands-on practice, giving you the advanced skills you need.

2. Engage fully in your training and apply for your ACNA certification: Put your heart into your ACNA training. Embrace both the theoretical and practical parts of the program, and when the time comes, prepare thoroughly for the certification exam. Once you’ve successfully passed, apply for your ACNA certification by submitting the necessary documents and fees. This certification is your ticket to advanced opportunities in acute care.

3. Update your resume and start job hunting: With your new ACNA certification in hand, it’s time to refresh your resume. Highlight your new skills and experiences, then start exploring job openings in hospitals, urgent care centers, and other acute care settings. Your upgraded qualifications will open new doors and set you up for exciting career opportunities.

Where to find ACNA classes?

If you wish to take an ACNA class, Dreambound is here to guide you every step of the way. As the largest platform for finding and comparing vocational training programs, Dreambound offers a comprehensive list of ACNA training options across the nation. You can explore programs in cities like:

• California
• Pennsylvania
• Minnesota
• Massachusetts
• Texas

Don’t see your city? No problem! Dreambound partners with schools nationwide, so you can simply enter your zip code to find local training programs that fit your needs. Wherever you are, Dreambound is ready to help you make your career goals a reality. Why wait? Visit Dreambound today to find ACNA training programs near you and discover the perfect class for your future!