is cna a nurse?

is cna a nurse?

No. A CNA is not a nurse.

A CNA is a Certified Nursing Assistant.
A nurse is licensed as an LPN or RN.

What a CNA is
A CNA provides basic patient care.
They help with bathing, dressing, feeding, mobility, and vital signs.
They work under the supervision of nurses.
They do not assess patients, create care plans, or give most medications.
They are not licensed nurses.

What a nurse is
A nurse holds a state nursing license.
Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses assess patients.
They administer medications.
They make clinical decisions.
They supervise CNAs and other support staff.

Why the confusion exists
CNAs work closely with nurses.
Their job title includes the word nursing.
They are part of the nursing care team.

Bottom line
A CNA is not a nurse.
A CNA supports nurses.
To be a nurse, someone must become an LPN or RN through nursing school and licensure.

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