By Dr. Tommie L. Norris, DNS, RN
The need for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in Florida is at a critical level as the population ages and comorbidities become more prevalent. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects approximately 174,000 job openings for CNAs each year between 2019 and 2029. The projected growth for CNAs is forecasted at 6.9% over the next few years in Florida. CNAs are in very high demand in Florida-second only to California in employing CNAs. Employers often search the CNA registry to fill these high demand positions, so becoming certified provides a distinct advantage. The starting salary of over $27,000 can be increased with experience and acquisition of skills such as phlebotomy. CNA certification falls under the auspice of the Florida Department of Health/Board of Nursing requiring a background screening and a testing fee of $155. CNA students participate in both classroom and clinical experiences to become competent members of the healthcare team culminating in a CNA certification exam. Affordability is certainly a strength as the financial and time commitment is less than an academic degree. With the growing job market, the decision to become a CNA offers many opportunities.
Miami Dade College is meeting the challenge to remedy the CNA shortage in South Florida by providing an entry pathway for CNAs through continuing education. The Benjamin Leon School partnered with continuing education to meet the needs of the community and provide a career that can be accomplished in a short period of time while assisting these members of the community to be employed and improve socioeconomic status. This collaboration with continuing education is to offer CNA training at both the Medical Campus located in the heart of the health district and the south Homestead Campus with a goal to expand into other zip codes in the near future.
Nursing students are provided with contacts for employment in many areas such as hospitals, clinics, extended care, and community/home health. Professional opportunities for CNAs are brighter than ever with the career ladder presented to all candidates. The support and resources now provided to these students are coupled with community needs for immediate employment upon graduation. MDC is developing pathways for CNAs to gain academic credit through prior learning assessment that includes work experience providing a career ladder to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse (RN). “Earn while you learn” can certainly be a goal for the CNA as employers seeking to up-skill employees may consider financial support while completing a nursing degree.
CNAs are a valuable member of the healthcare team working with registered nurses, physicians, nurse practitioners, and ancillary services. Working under the supervision of the RN or LPN, the role of the CNA includes assisting individuals with activities of daily living, monitoring vital signs, feeding, and assisting with ambulation are just a few of the skills provided by the CNA. CNAs have the opportunity to impact the lives of people based on the care provide in an environment that adds to their knowledge in a rapidly growing healthcare industry.
Dr. Tommie L. Norris, DNS, RN, is an AACN Leadership for Academic Nursing Fellow, Miami Dade College, and Dean, Benjamín Leόn School of Nursing.
