Skills & Talents required for being a CNA?

You must figure out if you’re good for the job.  To be a CNA, the desire to help people and the compassion are a must have. It is a very rewarding job but can also be very stressful.  CNA's must remember that this is a fast paced environment and not feel overwhelmed from the workload. When faced with challenging situations, CNAs that are the most compassionate about the people whom they are caring for seem to be able to manage stress best.  CNA’s who view their occupations as "just a job that pays the bills" usually are not successful and have likely made the wrong career choice.  Patience is crucial to the job, along with self-confidence and a certain level of maturity.  Good interpersonal skills with an emphasis on being a team player are especially valuable traits for all health care workers.
 
Being a CNA is not for everyone, and nursing facilities have been experiencing difficulty over the last few years attracting and retaining caring, qualified individuals. The pay scale isn't always up to par for the work expected of CNAs. CNA's, quiet often, work short staffed, decreasing the quality of care that patients receive while at the same time presenting a safety hazard to both staff and patients alike. The need for quality caregivers has become an important issue, and at times a problem, for healthcare facilities. Nationwide, this country has experienced somewhat of a crisis in the area of the direct care giving field. As the number of nursing homes continues to increase, it is an unfortunate fact that the care giving field has been lagging in numbers. The turnover rate for CNAs is phenomenal.
    
Our country has experienced a crisis in the area of the direct care-giving field with shortages in CNAs rating among the top causes.  Many times CNAs do not feel they are paid enough for the difficulty of the work.  All too common short staffing with resulting frustration in an effort to provide quality care contributes to this astounding turnover rate. The shortage of caregivers combined with growing long-term care needs of our elderly population is basis for the great demand for CNAs and resulting numerous job opportunities. If you decide to choose this field of work never think or say "I'm just a CNA." On the contrary, always remember that you are a respected and valuable professional member of the health team who provides vital care.
    
The difference in healthcare facilities often defines the job of the CNA.  For instance, in the hospital environment, the CNA’s interaction with patients is often limited to the time spent by the patient in the hospital. Long-term care facilities, on the other hand, provide an environment where nursing assistants can become well acquainted with the residents. If you would prefer variety, the long-term healthcare facility might not be the best choice for your career.   
    
A CNA provides both physical and emotional support for patients at home, in assisted-living facilities, and at hospitals.  The job will be to provide personalized assistance to individuals who are unable to care for themselves and help them regain and maintain daily functions. A CAN’s job may be difficult at times, but always rewarding, as you play an important role in helping people have a better quality of life.
    
Nursing aides employed in nursing care facilities often are the principal caregivers and have more contact with residents than do other members of the staff. Because some residents may stay in a nursing care facility for months or even years, aides develop positive, caring relationships with their patients.