Nursing Assistant
SOC 31-1131.00 · ESCO 5321 · OSCA 442231
Role snapshot
Overview
Provides essential direct care to patients under the supervision of registered nurses and other medical staff. Responsibilities include assisting with daily living activities like bathing, dressing, and feeding, monitoring vital signs, documenting observations, and ensuring patient comfort and safety in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health.
Contributes directly to patient well-being and recovery by ensuring their basic needs are met, maintaining hygiene, and providing compassionate support, thereby freeing up nursing staff for more complex medical tasks.
On the job
- Assist patients with personal care, including bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
- Help patients with mobility, transferring, and positioning safely in beds or wheelchairs.
- Monitor and record vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure), intake, and output, reporting changes to nurses.
- Serve meals and assist with feeding, ensuring dietary restrictions and preferences are followed.
- Maintain a clean and organized patient environment, changing linens and restocking supplies.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
ExcellentNew job opportunities are highly likely. Demand significantly outpaces supply in most markets.
Education & training
Completion of a state-approved nursing assistant training program and passing a certification exam are typically required.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Nursing Assistant
Nursing & Midwifery
ADJACENT MOVES
Who thrives here
Interest profile
social · SRC
Individuals who enjoy providing direct care, performing practical tasks, and working in structured environments to support patient well-being tend to thrive in this role.
Personality characteristics
Caring
Demonstrates empathy and provides comfort to patients, understanding their physical and emotional needs.
Conscientious
Consistently follows care plans, medical protocols, and documentation procedures with accuracy.
Observant
Pays close attention to changes in a patient's condition and accurately reports observations to nursing staff.
Team-oriented
Works effectively with nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated patient care.
Steady Under Pressure
Maintains composure and effectiveness in demanding and sometimes stressful patient care situations.
Best for
- Individuals who find fulfillment in caring for others and making a tangible difference in their daily lives.
- Those who thrive in a structured, fast-paced environment and enjoy hands-on work.
- People seeking an entry point into the healthcare field with opportunities for further education and career advancement.
Watch out for
- The role can be physically demanding, requiring lifting, transferring, and long periods spent on your feet.
- It can be emotionally challenging, as you will deal with patients experiencing illness, injury, and sometimes end-of-life care.
- Shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays, is common and often required.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Nursing Assistant — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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