Since hospitals and nursing homes provide 24 hours a day, Nurse Aides might work day, evening, or night shifts. They also work on weekends and holidays, but most full time aides have a regular shift and work from 32 to 40 hours a week. Part-time schedules are also available. Fringe benefits for permanent employees normally include health insurance, sick leave, paid holidays and vacations. A high school diploma is required.
Experience is preferred, but most employers are willing to train.
Nursing homes and convalescent centers providing personal care prefer to hire Aides having up to six months experience but will consider mature applicants and train them on the job. Formal training usually lasts one to nine weeks under close supervision of a general duty nurse or licensed practical nurse. Medical corps experience in the armed forces is considered appropriate. Extended care and skilled nursing facilities require at least six months experience in a similar facility, completion of a formal nursing course in community college or hospital affiliated school, and participation in a State approved work study program leading toward certification as Nursing Assistant. Training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, consists of 100 hours of clinical practice and 50 hours of classroom instruction.