As a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you've got skills that are in demand. But did you know those same skills can help you earn extra money on the side? The internet has opened up a lot of new ways for nurses to make a profit. It's not just about working extra shifts anymore. We're talking about building something for yourself, using what you already know. This article is all about the Top Tools Every CNA Needs to Start a Profitable Side Hustle Online. Let's get you started.

Key Takeaways

• Telehealth nursing offers a flexible way to provide patient care remotely, using digital tools for communication and monitoring.

• Health coaching allows CNAs to guide individuals toward healthier lifestyles, often through online platforms and personalized plans.

• Freelance health writing is a great way to share your knowledge by creating content for websites, blogs, or publications.

• Online tutoring connects you with students needing help in nursing subjects, allowing you to set your own hours.

• Participating in paid medical surveys provides a simple method to earn extra income by sharing your professional opinions.

1. Telehealth Nursing

Telehealth nursing is a growing field that lets you use your nursing skills from home. You can connect with patients through phone or video calls to give advice, check on their health, and offer support. It’s a way to help people without leaving your house. The industry has seen big growth, with many jobs available in different healthcare settings. As of early 2024, telehealth nurses can expect to earn around $83,000 annually, which is pretty good money for a side gig or even a main job.

Requirements and Rewards

To get into telehealth nursing, you generally need a nursing degree and to pass your licensing exams. Some experience in a hospital setting is often helpful, too. While not always required, getting certified in areas like ambulatory care can make you stand out. The big plus here is the flexibility – you can often set your own hours and work from wherever you have a good internet connection. It’s a chance to use your skills in new ways and make a difference.

Navigating the Digital Healthcare Landscape

The telehealth market is expanding fast, and it’s expected to keep growing. Changes in healthcare rules and more people being open to remote care have helped this. Telehealth is becoming a normal part of how healthcare works. Your nursing skills, like teaching patients and figuring out what care they need, fit right into this digital world. There's a real need for nurses who are comfortable with technology and can adapt to new digital tools.

Telehealth Nursing Jobs for Nurses

Modern technology makes it easier than ever to provide health services remotely, and the role of a telehealth nurse is a prime example of this. You can use video conferencing and even social media pages to provide private, one-on-one consulting to people in need of your services. That could mean educating them about various health conditions, providing advice about an illness they’re having, or many other things made possible with remote technology. Familiarity with the technology is the only real prerequisite for this role. If you have great communication skills and you know how to work a video call, you can apply your nursing skills to telehealth. Consider linking up with a telehealth CNA jobs agency to help you find clients.

Working in telehealth means you're part of a shift towards more accessible healthcare. It requires a good internet connection and a reliable computer, but the ability to help patients from your own space is a major benefit.

2. Health Coaching

Have you ever thought about helping people get healthier, but not in the usual hospital setting? Health coaching is a growing field where you can use your nursing knowledge to guide individuals toward better wellness. It’s about helping people make positive changes in their lives, whether that’s with food, exercise, or managing stress. You can work with clients one-on-one, either online or in person, which gives you a lot of flexibility.

You can really make a difference by helping clients adopt healthier habits.

Defining Your Coaching Niche

To stand out, it helps to focus on a specific area. Maybe you have a lot of experience with older adults, or perhaps you're great at helping people figure out their nutrition. You could also specialize in helping people manage a particular health condition.

• Geriatric patient support

• Nutrition planning

• Managing specific health conditions (like heart issues)

Having a clear niche makes you more attractive to clients looking for specialized help.

Building a Client Base

Getting your first clients is key. Think about who you want to help most – maybe new moms or people dealing with diabetes.

1. Identify your ideal client.

2. Figure out what services you'll offer.

3. Decide on the methods you'll use to help them.

Using social media can be a good way to get the word out. Also, consider getting coaching insurance and connecting with other health professionals. It all helps build your business.

Health coaching is a rewarding way to apply your nursing skills outside of traditional healthcare roles, focusing on preventative care and lifestyle improvements.

3. Freelance Health Writing

Lots of health-focused websites and publications are always on the lookout for writers who know their stuff. As a CNA, you've got firsthand knowledge of patient care and medical procedures, which is gold for these outlets. Think about writing blog posts, articles, or even patient education materials. Your background means you can explain complex health topics in a way that's easy for everyday people to understand. It's a great way to share what you know and make some extra cash on the side. You'll need a computer and a reliable internet connection, but that's about it to get started. Many nurses find they can earn anywhere from $100 to $800 or more each month doing this. It's a flexible gig that lets you use your existing skills in a new way.

Crafting Health Content

When you're writing health content, focus on being clear and accurate. Your job is to inform and educate, so make sure the information you provide is trustworthy. This means sticking to facts and avoiding anything that could be misleading. Think about the kinds of questions patients often ask you – those are great starting points for articles.

Starting Your Own Nursing Blog

If you want more control, consider starting your own blog. You can pick a specific area of nursing or health that you're passionate about and share your insights there. It takes time to build an audience, but once you do, you can make money through ads or sponsored posts. It’s a way to build your own platform and share your unique perspective.

Your practical experience as a CNA gives you a unique voice that readers will trust. Don't underestimate the value of your day-to-day knowledge.

4. Online Tutoring

Online Tutoring

Lots of future nurses are looking for help with their studies, and as a CNA, you've got the knowledge to guide them. Online tutoring is a great way to share what you know and earn some extra cash. You can help students who are just starting out or those getting ready to graduate. It's a field with a lot of demand, and you don't need much to get going.

You can make a real difference by helping nursing students grasp tough subjects. It's a good fit if you're patient and enjoy explaining things. You can set your own hours and rates, making it easy to fit into your schedule. Think about signing up on a tutoring site to get started.

Here are some subjects you might tutor:

• Basic anatomy and physiology

• Pharmacology basics

• Pathophysiology concepts

• Medical-surgical nursing principles

• Pediatric nursing care

• Maternity nursing practices

Tutoring can be really rewarding. You get to pass on what you've learned and help shape the next generation of nurses. It's a chance to contribute to the profession while also earning money.

One-on-One Tutoring

This is a popular way to tutor. You can help students one-on-one, focusing on specific areas they find difficult. Maybe they need help preparing for a big exam like the NCLEX-RN, or perhaps they need to improve their clinical skills. Your experience is exactly what they need.

Group Instruction and Workshops

Another option is to teach groups. You could lead sessions on topics like first aid, or even help students prepare for exams in a group setting. This can be a good way to reach more students at once. Consider looking into platforms that connect tutors with students, like NVOLVE for CNA initiatives, to find opportunities.

5. Medical Surveys

Want to make some extra cash just by sharing your thoughts? Medical surveys are a pretty straightforward way for CNAs to earn a bit more in their downtime. You're already in the healthcare field, so your opinions are actually useful to companies trying to figure out what patients need or what healthcare providers think about new products. It’s not going to make you rich, but it’s easy money.

How it Works

Basically, you sign up for survey sites that focus on healthcare. They'll ask you to fill out a profile about your background as a CNA. Then, they'll send you surveys that match your profile. You answer the questions honestly, and when you're done, you get paid. It’s that simple.

Where to Find Surveys

There are a bunch of platforms out there, but some are better than others. Look for ones that specifically target healthcare professionals. Some popular options include:

• Survey Junkie

• Swagbucks

• M3 Global Research

• inCrowd

Make sure to read reviews before signing up for any site to avoid scams.

What to Expect

Payment varies a lot. Some surveys pay a few dollars, while others might pay $20 or more, depending on how long they are and how specific the questions are. You usually get paid via PayPal or gift cards. It's a good idea to keep track of your earnings and the time you spend on surveys. Consistency is key if you want this to add up.

Remember, your experience as a CNA is what makes you qualified for these surveys. Don't underestimate the value of your day-to-day work and observations in the healthcare setting. Companies are eager to get your perspective on everything from patient care to medical equipment.

6. Healthcare Staffing Agency

Working with a healthcare staffing agency can be a smart move for CNAs looking to expand their reach and income. These agencies act as a bridge, connecting healthcare facilities that need staff with qualified professionals like you. It’s a way to find flexible work opportunities, often with better pay rates than you might find on your own. Think of them as your personal job scouts, handling a lot of the legwork so you can focus on what you do best – patient care.

How Agencies Work

Staffing agencies typically have contracts with hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and even home health agencies. When these facilities have a staffing need, whether it's for a short-term contract, a temporary fill-in, or even a permanent position, they turn to the agency. The agency then reaches out to its pool of CNAs to find a match. You can often choose the assignments that fit your schedule and preferences.

Benefits for CNAs

• Variety of Assignments: Gain experience in different settings and with diverse patient populations.

• Flexibility: Pick shifts and locations that work around your life.

• Competitive Pay: Agencies often negotiate higher rates for their CNAs.

• Career Advancement: Some agencies offer training or help you find pathways to further your career.

Getting Started

1. Research Agencies: Look for reputable agencies that specialize in healthcare staffing in your area. Check reviews and ask other CNAs for recommendations.

2. Apply: Submit your resume and complete the agency's application process. This usually involves background checks and credential verification.

3. Interview: You'll likely have an interview with an agency recruiter to discuss your skills, experience, and availability.

4. Accept Assignments: Once you're in their system, you'll start getting notified about available shifts. You can accept or decline them as you see fit.

Partnering with a staffing agency can open doors to a wider range of opportunities and provide a steady stream of work, helping you build a more robust income from your CNA skills. It’s a practical way to manage your career and boost your earnings.

Finding the right agency can make a big difference in your side hustle journey. Many agencies focus on specific types of healthcare roles, so finding one that values CNAs for hire is key.

7. Clinical Research Nurse

Thinking about a side hustle that really makes a difference? Clinical research nursing might be your ticket. It’s a way to use your nursing skills to help advance medical knowledge, and yes, it can bring in extra cash. You’re basically a key player in studies that test new treatments or medical devices. This means you’ll be working closely with patients who are part of these studies, making sure they’re okay and that everything is running smoothly according to the study plan.

Roles and Responsibilities

So, what does a clinical research nurse actually do? It’s a mix of patient care and detailed record-keeping. You’ll be interacting directly with study participants, explaining procedures, and monitoring their health. A big part of the job is also making sure everyone follows the study’s rules, which are called protocols. You’re the go-between for the patients and the research team, helping everyone stay on the same page.

• Directly interacting with patients in studies.

• Monitoring patient safety and well-being.

• Collecting and managing patient data accurately.

• Ensuring adherence to research protocols.

• Acting as a liaison between patients and the research team.

Breaking into the Field

Getting started in clinical research nursing usually requires a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and an RN license. Some positions might prefer or even require a master’s degree, especially for more advanced roles. Having some experience in acute care settings is also a big plus. It’s a field that values attention to detail and strong analytical skills. If you’re looking to boost your credentials, a master’s in Clinical Research Management could really set you apart.

The world of clinical trials is not just rewarding but also offers a chance to be part of groundbreaking research. As a nurse, your unique skills and expertise can significantly contribute to the success of these trials, making this an exciting and lucrative side hustle.

Many hospitals, universities, and private healthcare providers conduct studies. You can often find opportunities posted on their career pages or through specialized nursing job boards. It’s a great way to diversify your income while contributing to medical progress.

8. Nurse Practitioner Consulting

Nurse practitioner consulting is a fantastic way to use your advanced knowledge and clinical experience to help others, whether they're individuals or organizations. Think of it as offering expert advice on how things should be done in healthcare. Many healthcare facilities and even schools look for consultants to help them improve their practices or meet certain goals. It’s a role where you often work independently, calling your own shots. Registered nurses with solid backgrounds are really sought after for this kind of work. You'll want to treat this like your own business, complete with a plan for how you'll get clients and manage your services. Depending on your location, you might need a few extra credentials to show you're qualified.

Consulting in the Healthcare Industry

As a nursing consultant in the healthcare industry, your role is to:

• Help healthcare facilities improve clinical care by designing custom systems and processes.

• Assist healthcare organizations with strategies to deliver high-quality patient care.

• Pursue nursing excellence, which can have a significant impact on the retention of nursing staff.

Your insights can help improve nurse engagement and resilience, leading to positive changes within healthcare organizations and better nurse retention.

Legal and Tech Consulting

In legal consulting, your medical knowledge can provide valuable insights in legal cases. You could serve as an expert witness, helping interpret medical records and testifying on healthcare practices. If you’re tech-savvy, you can use your clinical experience to consult on healthcare technology products, such as mobile apps geared towards medical professionals or patients. Your contributions to healthcare app development can ensure that these tools meet the practical needs of patient care and clinical workflows. You can find remote nursing positions available in 2025 that allow you to work from home, including opportunities in telehealth and nursing education.

Identifying Business Opportunities

Recognizing business opportunities that match your skills and what the market needs is key to starting a successful venture. For example, if you have a strong background in pediatric care, you could start a childcare center. Or if you have expertise in nutrition planning, you could start a business offering nutrition planning services. Specializing in a niche, like helping clients manage a condition such as congestive heart failure, can make your services stand out and attract a specific audience.

Steps to Launch Your Business

Starting a nurse-led business requires careful planning. Crafting a solid business plan that includes your goals, insurance needs, startup money, location, permits, and provider insurance is an important first step. Identifying your niche and using worksheets can help you pinpoint your strengths and figure out who would benefit most from your expertise. It’s also important to consider legal aspects like getting a national provider identifier and malpractice insurance. With the right planning and resources, you could soon be the proud owner of a successful nurse-led business.

9. Adjunct Nursing Instructor

Have you ever thought about teaching? Your experience as a CNA is super valuable, and schools are always looking for people like you to help train the next generation of nurses. Being an adjunct instructor means you can teach part-time, often on a contract basis, without the full-time commitment of a regular faculty position. It’s a great way to share what you know and make some extra money.

Teaching Opportunities

Your practical skills are exactly what nursing students need. You can help them understand complex topics and get ready for real-world situations. Think about teaching subjects like:

• Basic anatomy and physiology

• Pharmacology basics

• Understanding diseases (pathophysiology)

• Medical-surgical nursing skills

• Pediatric care

• Maternity care

Sharing Your Knowledge

You can teach in a few different ways. Some schools might need instructors for specific courses, while others might want you to help supervise students during their clinical rotations. This is a chance to really make a difference in someone’s career before it even starts.

The demand for qualified nursing educators is high, and your real-world experience is a big plus. It’s a rewarding way to give back to the profession.

Getting Started

To become an adjunct instructor, you’ll usually need at least a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), though some positions might consider extensive experience. Check with local nursing programs or community colleges about their requirements and openings. You might also need to get certified in specific areas depending on what you teach.

10. CPR Instructor

Do you enjoy teaching and have a current CPR certification? Becoming a CPR instructor could be a great way to earn extra money while helping others learn life-saving skills. Many organizations, from local businesses to community centers and schools, need certified instructors to train their staff and members. You'll be teaching essential techniques like proper hand placement, breathing methods, and what to do in an emergency. It's a rewarding role that directly contributes to community safety.

Getting Certified to Teach

To teach CPR, you'll need to get certified through recognized organizations. The American Heart Association and the American Red Cross are two of the most well-known providers. They offer instructor courses that cover not only the CPR skills themselves but also how to effectively teach them to others. Make sure to check their specific requirements, as they can vary.

Finding Opportunities

Look for opportunities with local community centers, schools, and even businesses that prioritize employee safety. Your local American Red Cross chapter is a good place to start, as they often have training events and may need instructors. Some hospitals or healthcare systems also offer CPR training and might hire instructors. You can also explore online platforms that list freelance teaching gigs.

What You'll Teach

Your courses will cover the core principles of CPR for different age groups (infants, children, adults). You'll also likely teach how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and basic first aid techniques. The goal is to equip participants with the confidence and knowledge to act effectively in an emergency.

Setting Your Rates

Rates for CPR instructors can vary based on location, the organization you work with, and your experience. Some instructors charge per class, while others might charge an hourly rate. Research local rates to determine a competitive price for your services. Remember, your nursing background adds credibility and can justify a higher rate.

Wrapping It Up: Your Next Steps

So, you've seen that there are a bunch of ways nurses can make extra money on the side. It's not just about picking something, though. You've got to think about what fits your life and what you're actually good at. Whether it's talking to patients over the phone, writing about health topics, or teaching new nurses, your skills are in demand. Don't be afraid to try something new. The most important thing is to start somewhere and keep going. You've got this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can nurses do side jobs?

Absolutely! Nurses have tons of options for side jobs that use their skills and can bring in extra money. Think about things like helping people through video calls (telehealth), sharing your knowledge by teaching others, or giving advice on how to live healthier.

What is telehealth nursing?

Telehealth nursing means you help patients from far away, usually by phone or video chat. You can check on people's health, talk to them about their needs, and give them advice on how to take care of themselves without being in the same room.

Can nurses be freelance health writers?

Yes, many nurses find success by writing about health topics. You can share your knowledge with others, set your own hours, and decide how much to charge. It's a great way to help people learn and make some extra cash.

What does a health coach do?

Many nurses become health coaches to help people reach their wellness goals. You can use your nursing background to guide others on healthy eating, exercise, and managing stress. It's a fulfilling way to use your expertise.

How can nurses become online tutors?

Online tutoring is a fantastic way for nurses to share what they know. You can help nursing students with their studies, whether they're just starting or about to graduate. It's a needed service and doesn't cost much to begin.

Can nurses make money from medical surveys?

Yes, you can earn money by sharing your opinions on medical topics through surveys. Companies need nurses' insights to improve healthcare. It's a flexible way to make extra money in your spare time.

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Adella Pasos has over 35,000 subscribers on YouTube. This Entrepreneur and Marketing Expert has shared her passion for growing brands from the ground up. She’s worked with Startups, Small Businesses, Fortune 500 Corporations and Entertainment Talent to help them recognize the value of marketing, and give her clients the ability to access their niche market via online, social media, mobile, merchandising, and events.

She hosts the What’s Your Game Plan TV show features: Free Expert Advice, and Growth strategies for Business Owners Across the Globe. Access thousands of FREE Tips, Trends & Tools to Move Your Business Forward!

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