When it comes to home health care, every role on the care team makes a difference, but not every role looks the same like CNA vs RN roles. Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) both bring unique skills, responsibilities, and perspectives to the families they serve. In pediatric long-term care especially, the collaboration between RNs and CNAs ensures children receive both the clinical expertise and daily support they need to thrive at home. Understanding these differences not only helps families know what to expect, but also gives caregivers a clear path for growing their own careers in nursing.
Side-by-Side: CNA vs RN (At a Glance)
|
Category |
RN |
CNA |
Training & Credential: |
ADN/BSN (or diploma) + RN license (NCLEX-RN) |
State-approved training + competency exam/registry |
Primary Focus: |
Assessment, plan of care, clinical coordination, family education |
ADLs, hygiene, mobility, comfort, observation, documentation |
Clinical Decision-Making: |
Analyzes notes, updates plan of care, delegates appropriately |
Reports changes promptly to the licensed nurse |
Collaboration: |
Works with MD/NP/PA, therapists, social work, school teams |
Works closely with RNs/LPNs and family caregivers |
Settings: |
Hospitals, clinics, home care/PDN, schools, SNFs |
Hospitals, SNFs, rehab, home care |
State Nurse Practice Acts and agency policy determine exact duties/delegation.
How These CNA vs RN Roles Work in Team Select Home Care
RN Role in Pediatric Long-Term Care
RNs are the clinical leaders in home care. For children with complex medical needs, they’re the ones who make sure every detail of care is safe, consistent, and aligned with the doctor’s orders. But their role goes beyond just clinical tasks, it’s about guiding the whole family through the journey of care at home.
Here’s what RNs do in pediatric long-term care:
• Lead the plan of care – RNs create and update the child’s care plan, setting clear goals and coordinating with physicians, therapists, and school teams.
• Deliver skilled nursing care – From monitoring respiratory status to managing gastrostomy care, RNs provide the advanced interventions kids need.
• Coach and educate families – They walk parents through equipment set-up, daily routines, and what changes to watch for, so families feel confident, not overwhelmed.
• Collaborate with the care team – RNs connect the dots between doctors, therapists, CNAs, and families, making sure everyone is working toward the same goals.
The result? Families feel supported and empowered, knowing they have both expert clinical care and a trusted guide by their side.
CNA Role in Pediatric Long-Term Care
While RNs lead the care plan, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are often the steady, familiar presence by a child’s side. They provide the daily, hands-on care that helps kids feel comfortable and families feel supported. Their role is all about consistency, observation, and making sure little things don’t get missed—because in pediatric care, those details matter.
Here’s what a CNA vs RNA does in pediatric long-term care (where state rules allow):
- Support daily routines – Helping with bathing, mobility, positioning, and comfort so children feel safe and cared for at home.
- Reinforce safety and consistency – Making sure equipment, schedules, and care routines stay on track.
- Observe and report changes – From appetite to comfort cues, CNAs keep an eye on the details and quickly communicate any changes to the RN.
- Ease the family’s load – By handling essential day-to-day tasks, CNAs give parents more time to focus on being mom and dad—not just caregivers.
For families, CNAs bring stability and peace of mind. For the care team, they’re the eyes and ears that keep communication flowing and care consistent.
Pediatric Long-Term, Private Duty Nursing at Home (Team Select)
For medically complex children, pediatric long-term care at home mixes CNA vs RN.
Why families choose Team Select
- Continuity: Familiar faces and predictable schedules reduce stress for kids and caregivers.
- Education: Clear, step-by-step teaching and written guidance for parents and loved ones.
- Teamwork: RN-led plans with CNAs/LPNs and school teams all rowing in the same direction.
Team Select Makes It Easy to Start A Career in Home Health Care
Your Path With Team Select: CNA → LPN → RN
Start your career quickly as a CNA, build confidence in home care, and map your next step with our mentorship and clinical support. Many teammates bridge to LPN and eventually RN with our help – so you can grow your nursing career without losing momentum!
Ready to explore your options at Team Select?
Visit here to learn about Family Care Giving openings and Nurse roles near you!
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