Nursing assistants are increasingly in high demand throughout New Mexico. Given this positive job outlook, prospective nursing students should learn the specifics of this role and the variety of programs available to them in the state.
Overview of the nursing assistant role
Nursing assistants play a major role in providing healthcare. Common responsibilities for nursing assistants include aiding the elderly, the chronically ill, or patients in rehabilitation. As a result, they are often found working in nursing homes and hospitals. Interpersonal communication skills and manual dexterity are required, both of which can be developed through brief training. Typical programs for nursing assistants last only eight to ten weeks, covering the basics of healthcare without extensive medical education.
Prospective nursing assistants in New Mexico can select their program from a wide variety of training options. The most notable programs are offered at Navajo Technical University, Doña Ana Community College, New Mexico Junior College, and New Mexico State University. All programs cover basic nursing processes, fundamental nursing skills, leadership, and even nurse assisting internships for interested students.
Career prospects
Nursing assistants are very prominent in the healthcare industry. In New Mexico alone, there are over 5,600 nursing assistants employed, accounting for almost 25% of the state’s total nursing workforce. The average yearly salary of a nursing assistant in the state is approximately $25,000, a very positive return on investment given the brevity of the required training program. Genesis Healthcare, one of the largest healthcare employers nationwide with over 400 nursing centers, frequently hires for the nursing assistant role at its New Mexico location.
You can start your nursing assistant training in New Mexico today by choosing from the list of accredited local programs we’ve compiled below.