So, what’s the difference between working caregiver and CNA jobs? Sometimes the terms “caregiver” and “CNA” are used interchangeably (which is confusing!), but these positions are different. Here are the nuts and bolts of each position, as well as the similarities and differences:
Caregiver & CNA Jobs Differ In Education
The main difference in caregiver and CNA jobs is the required education and training. Certified nursing assistants (a CNA for short) must complete a specific CNA training course, which consists of 75 to 100 hours of classroom and clinical training, and then pass a certification test in order to practice in the specific state.
Caregivers, on the other hand, don’t need certification to work. Generally, a high school diploma or GED is the only educational requirement. Caregiver training (sometimes as little as 10 hours per course) is available for career advancement.
Responsibilities For Caregiver & CNA Jobs
Caregivers and CNAs both provide care to clients who can’t fully care for themselves, mainly seniors. Both positions report on the client’s daily physical and mental health, as well as provide comfort and companionship. Caregivers perform non-medical tasks, while CNAs do the non-medical tasks and are licensed to assist with basic medical care. Basic medical tasks include taking vitals, measuring weight and
other statistics, helping clients with medical equipment and more.
Pay Rates For Caregiver & CNA Jobs
CNA jobs offer higher pay rates than caregiver jobs, due to the required education. On average, caregivers make about $9.25 per hour, while those working CNA jobs are paid $11.54 on average.
To summarize, caregivers and CNA jobs have similar functions, but CNAs have more education which enables increased job functions and pay. Caregiver jobs provide care and comfort like CNAs, but without the medical assistance, and are a great starting point for those looking to become CNAs.
Interested in learning more about working a care job or becoming a certified caregiver? Check out the free resources at myCNAjobs.com