Nursing assistants must complete a state approved education program and must pass the exam to become certified. Assistants at least have an high school diploma. Nurses who pass the exam are placed on state registry. Nursing assistance typically complete a period of on the job training to learn policies and procedures. Some states have other requirements like background checks or continuing education. Being an nursing assistant takes cleaning, feeding, and bathing patients or residence. It can also be stressful. Nursing assistance must have patience to complete these tasks. Assistance spend most of their time on their feet.