Medical Assisting Career

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
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More Information: U.S. Department of Labor