Nursing assistants also provide basic medical care. They may take temperatures, pulse, and blood pressure. They help some patients get out of bed and walk around. If they notice changes in patients' physical, mental, or emotional condition, they tell a supervisor. Nursing assistants are supervised by both nurses and doctors.
Psychiatric aides provide basic care for patients who have psychological disorders.
For more information about Psychiatric Aides, see that specialty. Nursing assistants are also called nursing aides. In nursing homes, nursing assistants often are the main caregivers for patients. Since many patients stay in these homes for years, nursing assistants often develop relationships with them. Nursing assistants who help patients in their own homes are called home health aides .