Considering a Career in Long Term Care

Qualifications

Educational requirements vary depending upon the position. For instance, to enter a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program you need a high school diploma or high school equivalency diploma, but if you are entering a field like physical therapy, you need a more advanced degree. Nurses are either Registered Nurses (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). Overall, the most important qualifications include the desire to help others, and the compassion and understanding that frail elders and the disabled need.

Employment Options

The long term care field offers careers and employment opportunities in a variety of health professions and settings. That is, similar positions generally can be found at nursing facilities, assisted living residences, residential care communities, adult day care centers and homes for persons with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. Also, different states vary somewhat in their requirements for various positions, so you need to check in your area about what qualifications you will need to be a member of the long term care team (see Sources on page 7 of this pamphlet). Following is a brief description of the major areas that may interest you.

Certified Nursing Assistant, Resident Assistant and Other Positions

1. The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides personal care to residents or patients, such as bathing, dressing, changing linens, transporting and other essential activities. CNAs are trained, tested, certified and work under the supervision of an RN or LPN.

2. The Resident Assistants (RA) generally work in assisted living residences and provide direct personal care services to residents but are not certified as CNAs. Depending on the state, this position is also available in some nursing facilities.

3. In some states, a Qualified Medical Assistant (a CNA with specialized training), may assist with the administration of medications and treatments.

>>next