Home Health Aide (HHA) and Personal Care Aide (PCA)c

Home Health Aides and/or Patient Care Assistants help with patient’s daily activities such as: cleaning and bathing, toileting, dressing, housekeeping, scheduling, transferring, shopping for groceries, and serving meals. If qualified with training, some HHAs or PCAs can check vital signs such as pulse, temperature, and respiration rate. The educational requirements for an HHA or PCA is typically a high school diploma.

Nursing Assistant (CNA)d

Nursing Assistants, also known as Certified Nursing Assistants, provide basic care needs for a patient’s daily activities such as: cleaning and bathing, toileting, dressing, transferring, measuring vital signs and blood pressure, and serving meals. Some Nursing Assistants can administer medications depending on state they work in. The educational requirements for a Nursing Assistant or CNA are to attend a state approved education program and pass a state competency exam.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Licenses Vocational Nurse (LVN)e

LPNs and LVNs, provide more advanced care needs under the supervision of a registered nurse, such as: checking vital signs, changing bandages, inserting catheters, bathing, dressing, discussing care needs, and reporting patient status to registered nurses or doctors. Some LPNs and LVNs can administer medications and IV drips depending on state they work in. The educational requirements for a LPNs and LVNs is to receive a certificate or diploma by attending a state approved educational program. LPNs and LVNs also must pass the National Council Licensure Examination.

Registered Nurse (RN)f

Registered Nurses, also knowns as RNs, provide advanced care needs and educate the patient and family members about health conditions. Registered Nurses do the following, but not limited to assess patients’ conditions, administer patient’s medicines and treatments, operate and monitor medical equipment, perform diagnostic tests and analyze results, and educate patients and families on how to manage illnesses or injuries. Some RN’s oversee LPNs, CNAs, and HHAs. There are three pathways to become a registered nurse: receive a Bachelor of Science Degree in nursing (BSN), an Associates Degree in nursing (ADN), or a diploma from an approved nursing program. RNs also must pass the National Council of Licensure Examination before practicing.