Caregiving Positions

  • Resident Care Assistant (RCA) is a non-certified position created to support existing nursing staff, assist with resident care and create an accessible pipeline to future employment as Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs.) For more information about RCA and the RCA training course, please click here. 

     
  • Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are the primary caregivers of the long term care team, serving as the “eyes and ears” for supervisory staff. CNAs help residents with personal care, including bathing, dressing, eating, walking and restorative services. CNAs receive ongoing training to increase their knowledge and skills, and some go on to become licensed nurses themselves.
    • How do I become a CNA?

      You must successfully complete a state certified CNA training course, typically 75-100 hours, and pass a state competency exam. For a list of certified CNA training providers within Massachusetts, click here. 

 

  • Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provide residents with routine daily medications and necessary medical treatments. They also provide bedside care and help evaluate patient needs, develop care plans and oversee the care provided by CNAs. LPNs often serve as charge nurses or unit managers within the facility.
    • How do I become a LPN?

      One-year LPN programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools throughout Massachusetts and will prepare you to take the state licensure exam.

 

  • Registered Nurses (RNs) assess resident needs and develop care plans in collaboration with the facility’s care planning team. RNs also supervise and provide training and education to LPNs and CNAs. RNs may serve on the facility’s senior management team as directors of nursing and assistant directors of nursing and, as such, are responsible for the overall quality of care provide by the facility.

    • How do I become a RN?

      You can either earn an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) in two years, or obtain a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN) over four years. Both options allow you to take the state licensure exam required prior to practice. You can also continue your education by earning you Master’s Degree or Doctorate in Nursing.

      For a listing of Nursing Programs in Massachusetts, click here.