CNA Weekly Brief: June 17–23, 2025
This past week brought some important updates for Certified Nursing Assistants, highlighting shifts in the healthcare workforce and new policy discussions. We’re seeing continued efforts to address staffing challenges, alongside legislative changes aimed at improving working conditions. Plus, technology is playing an increasingly vital role in supporting direct care.
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Healthcare Workforce Rebounds, But Gaps Remain
The U.S. healthcare workforce has largely recovered from the significant job losses experienced in early 2020, with overall employment figures now aligning with pre-pandemic projections. However, this recovery has not been uniform, with skilled nursing facilities and intensive behavioral health centers still facing considerable shortages. These persistent gaps create strain on existing staff, including Certified Nursing Assistants, impacting their well-being and the quality of care they can provide.
Published: June 17, 2025
Health Care Employment Recovery in 2025 -
Workforce Technology Easing Staffing Challenges in Rural Healthcare
Hospitals, particularly those in rural areas, are increasingly adopting workforce technology, including artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced scheduling tools, to address persistent staffing shortages. These innovations are designed to optimize existing resources, reduce administrative burdens on staff, and enhance team coordination, rather than replacing human caregivers. By providing real-time insights and improving scheduling flexibility, these technologies are helping rural facilities maximize patient access and improve job satisfaction among their teams.
Published: June 17, 2025
Workforce Technology Eases Staffing Shortages in Rural Health Care | AJMC -
U.S. Nursing School Enrollment Sees Positive Uptick
There is encouraging news for the future of nursing: recent data released by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) indicates an increase in student enrollment across most undergraduate and graduate nursing programs in U.S. schools. This positive trend reverses some recent declines and signals a strong, renewed interest in nursing careers. It is a promising sign for addressing long-term workforce needs and ensuring a robust pipeline of healthcare professionals.
Published: June 17, 2025
Schools of Nursing Enrollment Increases Across Most Program Levels, Signaling Strong Interest in Nursing Careers
Tools & Tips
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Sharpen Your Skills with CNA Exam Prep Apps: For those looking to ace their certification exam or simply refresh their knowledge, mobile applications can be incredibly helpful. The “CNA Practice Tests 2025” app, for example, offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to build confidence and convenience, including over 1,000 practice questions and skills exam practice videos.
CNA® Practice Exam Prep 2026 App - App Store -
Embrace Digital Training & EHR Systems: As healthcare continues its rapid digitalization, familiarity with Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems and the utilization of digital training platforms are becoming increasingly vital for Certified Nursing Assistants. EHR systems are a core component of modern healthcare delivery, enabling CNAs to efficiently access and update patient records, which is crucial for their daily charting and record-keeping responsibilities.
Top Tools and Technologies for Healthcare Assistants - Hollilander Recruitment
Fun Fact
Did you know the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) role has a rich history that dates back to World War I? It originated as the “Volunteer Nurses’ Aide Service,” established by the American Red Cross to provide basic assistance to nurses overwhelmed with injured soldiers and civilians. While initially a volunteer effort, the critical need for these caregivers became evident again during World War II, leading to over 12,000 women volunteering their services. It wasn’t until 1987, with the passing of the Omnibus Reconciliation Act (OBRA), that formal standards for modern CNAs were set, requiring certification and establishing guidelines for training, education, testing, and a code of ethics.
A Brief History of CNA Careers
We’d love to hear from you!
Have you participated in any CNA events or utilized new CNA tools recently? Share your experiences or insights with us—we’re featuring selected community voices in next week’s edition.