Nursing Assistant's Career Choices
Nursing Assistant
In comparing the medical assistant career with that of the nurse's aide there are fundamental differences. We
discuss them here because one of the most often asked question in our web forum is "What is the difference between
a medical assistant and a nurse's aide?".
Medical Assistant vs. Nurse's Aide
While a medical assistant deals with patients on a clinical and administrative level in a medical office
(ambulatory/outpatient), the nurse's aide works in hospitals, hospices, nursing, and retirement homes as an
important part of the in-house nursing team. Nurse's Aides/Assistants are responsible for providing basic patient
care under the direction of the nursing staff. Some nurse assistants provide personal care to the elderly in their
homes. They may work any available shift, including weekends and holidays, full-time, part-time, and flexible
hours.
Nursing Assistant's Job Description:
Many nursing assistants continue their education and enter into other related careers. Where nursing assistants
deal directly with the patients, providing care and assistance with activities of daily living under the RN's
supervison, medical assistants work in a medical office or clinic under the physican's direct supervision.
Nursing Assistant Summary
Education: High School, moderate-term on-the-job training, postsecondary vocational award (diploma), CPR
certification.
Projected Growth: 42%
Earnings: $21,000-$25,000 depending on experience
Find a School: Schools by State
More Information: U.S. Department of Labor
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