A nursing assistant provides direct care to patients under the supervision of nurses and doctors. The work is hands-on, in demand, and you can start with a high school diploma. Here is what the job involves, what it takes to succeed, and how to get in.
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Nursing assistants help patients with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and eating. You monitor patients' vital signs and report changes to nurses. You also document patient information, communicate with supervisors and team members, and help maintain a safe and clean environment. The work requires active listening, physical stamina, and the ability to stay calm in a healthcare setting. You'll spend your day moving between patient rooms, assisting with personal care, and supporting the nursing team.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Nursing Assistants earn a median of $42,260 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is modest. Employment is projected to grow 2 percent from 2024 to 2034, little or no change for all occupations, with about 204,100 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most nursing assistant positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers offer on-the-job training, though some prefer candidates who complete a formal training program. These programs are available through community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare facilities, and typically take several weeks to a few months. You'll learn patient care basics, safety protocols, and communication skills. Some positions may require certification, which involves passing an exam after completing your training.
Nursing assistant roles vary by setting and employer, so if you're exploring whether a hospital, clinic, or long-term care facility fits your goals, Pathly can map the nursing assistant path that fits you and map out your path with your counselor.
Many nursing assistants must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You're drawn to work that centers on helping others. You listen well, think critically, and communicate clearly. You thrive in team environments where your care makes a direct difference.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).