The Nursing Assistant Salary and the Nurse’s Basic Duties

The average nursing assistant salary is roughly $28,000 a year.  There a different types of nurses in the medical field.  A nursing assistant is just below and licensed practical nurse, in seniority and education.  They work under the supervision of a registered nurse to provide basic care needs to the patients admitted into a facility.  The nursing assistance salary is lower than that of other professions, but the job opportunities are fairly generous, given the fact that they provide support to other nurses.  The next step for a certified nursing assistant would be to complete a program dedicated to the goal of becoming a licensed practical nurse.

Why the Nursing Assistant salary is lower than Other Nursing Careers

Individuals seeking a career as a nursing assistant may notice that the salary is strikingly low compared to other nursing professions. The reason being is that the nursing assistant field is located on the lower level of the nursing latter.  Unlike other nurses, for example a registered nurse, a nursing assistant communicates solely with the registered nurse assigned to the case and the patient.  They do not communicate directly with the physician caring for the patient.

The nursing assistant salary reflects that in its payments.  This does not make the nursing assistant career any less desirable than other nursing career.  Some may think of the nursing assistant field as a foothold in medicine, for those seeking a higher position.  The more clinical experience one has when entering a nursing program, the easier it is for the student to adjust to the curriculum.

The Nursing Assistant Salary Reflects its Duties

A nursing assistant works under the direction of a registered nurse.  Their job is not to act as a liaison between patient and physician, but to provide support to the nurse assigned to the case.  There are very basic tasks and duties expected from a nursing assistant.  A nursing assistant can be entrusted to assist the patient in undressing, eating, bathing and dressing.

 

A nursing assistant does not start, or administer intravenous fluids.  But they may be asked to take vital signs such as blood pressure, and pulse rate.  On some occasions if a registered nurse and or physician needs assistance in completing a procedure on a patient, a nursing assistant may be asked to help.

 

Where is the Nursing Assistant Salary Highest?

There are some places that offer a higher nursing assistant salary.  Although the average nursing assistance salary is around $28,000 a year, individual states or regions may vary in their dollar amount.  This will all depend on the demand for nursing assistants, and how populated the region as.  Places like New York City, California, Florida, and Texas offer higher paying positions.

 

In the year 2010, the average calculated nursing assistant salary in Harlingen, Texas, was said to be about $23,340 a year.  However in places like Austin, Texas the salary are reached $29,000 a year.  Also since Florida currently has a shortage of nurses in any field, they are offering a higher nursing assistants salary, and job opportunities.

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