If you’re exploring healthcare career options in Nebraska, you’ve likely come across both CNA courses and CMA courses. Because the roles often overlap, many students wonder: What’s the difference between a CNA and a CMA class? Let’s break it down so you can decide which course best fits your goals.
CNA Course Overview: Certified Nurse Aide
A Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) is a vital part of the healthcare team. CNAs work directly with patients to provide hands-on care and support for daily activities.
Common CNA job duties include:
- Checking and recording vital signs
- Assisting patients with bathing, grooming, and dressing
- Making up patient beds and maintaining a clean care environment
- Helping patients move safely or transfer between beds and wheelchairs
After completing a state-approved CNA course, students must pass both a written/oral exam and a clinical skills exam to earn their CNA certification.
The CNA program at Quality Career Pathways includes 76 hours of classroom and clinical training (75 hours of coursework plus one hour of abuse and neglect training). Graduates are prepared to work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, assisted living centers, and even private homes.
CMA Course Overview: Certified Medication Aide
A Certified Medication Aide (CMA) builds on CNA-level knowledge and focuses specifically on medication administration under the supervision of a licensed nurse.
Typical CMA responsibilities include:
- Administering oral and topical medications
- Following the “five rights” of medication administration (right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, right time)
- Documenting medication administration accurately
- Assisting clients with daily tasks such as meals, dressing, and personal hygiene
The CMA course at Quality Career Pathways requires 40 hours of training, after which students are eligible to take the state CMA exam.
This certification allows you to advance your healthcare career, take on more responsibility, and often increase your earning potential.
CNA vs CMA: The Key Differences
While both CNAs and CMAs provide essential patient care, the main difference between a CNA and a CMA is medication administration.
- CNA: Trained in client care—helping with hygiene, mobility, and comfort—but not authorized to administer medication.
- CMA: Certified to administer medications under nursing supervision but typically does not perform mobility or transfer tasks taught in the CNA course.
Because of this, many students choose to become dual certified (completing both the CNA course and the CMA course) to expand their skills, job opportunities, and versatility in healthcare settings.
Training Time and Career Opportunities
| Certification | Training Hours | Focus | Common Workplaces |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNA Course | 76 hours | Patient care and comfort | Hospitals, nursing facilities, clinics, in-home care |
| CMA Course | 40 hours | Medication administration | Assisted living facilities, long-term care, residential settings |
These two certification programs are the cornerstone healthcare training options at Quality Career Pathways (QCP) and will prepare you to work in a variety of healthcare environments.
Another Difference Between a CNA and a CMA: Salary
In general, CNA salaries are slightly higher than CMA salaries because CNAs complete more training and have a broader range of clinical responsibilities. However, pay can vary depending on employer, experience, and location.
For the most accurate wage information, you can visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website to explore the latest data on CNA and CMA salary projections.
Which Course Is Right for You?
When choosing between a CNA course and a CMA course, consider your long-term goals:
- If you want to start your healthcare career quickly and want to work with medications, the CMA course is a great place to begin.
- If you enjoy more responsibility and focus on patient care, the CNA course may be the better fit.
- If you want the most career flexibility, consider earning both CNA and CMA certifications through Quality Career Pathways.
Both career paths allow you to make a meaningful impact by improving the health and well-being of those in your care.
Enroll Today in a CNA or CMA Course at Quality Career Pathways
Ready to take the next step?
Start your CNA course or CMA course in Omaha. Our hands-on programs, flexible scheduling, and supportive instructors will prepare you for success in Nebraska’s growing healthcare field.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee employment or specific earnings.
