17 Oct 2018

What is an STNA?

A State Tested Nursing Assistant, or STNA, is a skilled, trained caregiver who works in an assisting role, helping registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and physicians in the delivery of patient care.  STNAs require formal training, testing, a criminal background check and passage of a state licensing examination.  STNA duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Bedside care
  • Changing bed linens
  • Bathing assistance
  • Restroom assistance
  • Feeding assistance
  • Helping patients feel comfortable in bed
  • Assisting patients in mobility tasks

Working as an STNA can be an intelligent way to decide if working in the healthcare field is for you, and is a great first step if you want to train for a career in Nursing.  It’s also a great career choice in itself too — many people decide to stay with it most of their lives. It provides you with a steady income, benefits, a retirement plan, and insurance benefits. Financially, it can be a fantastic career option. But, if you’re using your STNA certification as a stepping-stone toward a higher degree nursing career, it can help you pay for your education along the way. And these days many nursing schools look for you to have your STNA certificate as a pre-requisite for their program.

Where do STNAs Work?

You are not limited to only working in a hospital. Other places you can work are:

  • Long-term care facilities
  • Nursing homes
  • Hospice care facilities
  • Patients’ homes
  • Retirement communities
  • Rehabilitation centers
  • Health clinics

Employment Outlook 2014-24*

14.96% increase in demand for STNAs

Mean Salary 2017 (Ohio)*

$11.71/hourly
$26,740/annual

Source: * US Bureau of Labor Statistics 

Does a Career as an STNA interest you?

If so, the Fostoria Learning Center is NOW ENROLLING for its STNA program. To find out more contact:

Tracey Lawton
Fostoria Learning Center
Email: flcassistant@fostorialearningcenter.org
Phone: (419) 408-5540

Classes are held at the Fostoria Learning Center