Provide bedside care, monitor vital signs, and assist patients with daily living in hospitals, nursing homes, and private homes. HEART/NSTA Trust and private colleges offer accredited practical nursing and geriatric care training.
Salary Breakdown
Enrolled Assistant Nurse (HTAC/EAN 1) - advertised at $1,922,483 - $2,285,228 per annum (MOH&W, March 2024).
Estimated Take-Home Pay
Based on the midpoint of the Entry salary range ($2,103,856 JMD), after NIS, NHT, Education Tax, and PAYE.
Show deduction breakdown
- Gross (annual)
- $2,103,856 JMD
- NIS (3%)
- −$63,115 JMD
- NHT (2%)
- −$42,077 JMD
- Education Tax
- −$45,916 JMD
- PAYE Income Tax
- −$34,595 JMD
- Net (annual)
- $1,918,151 JMD
Estimate only — illustrative rates and thresholds, not tax advice. Confirm current figures with Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).
Career Path Roadmap
- 1
CSEC Subjects
Pass CSEC English, Mathematics, and a science (Biology or Human & Social Biology preferred) - typically 3-4 subjects for practical nursing programmes.
Forms 1-5 - 2
Practical Nursing Certification
Complete Practical Nursing or Geriatric Care training at HEART/NSTA Trust, Sigma College, or an accredited private nursing school.
1 - 2 years - 3
Clinical Placement
Complete supervised clinical hours in hospitals, infirmaries, or nursing homes as part of certification.
3 - 6 months - 4
Work & Specialise
Work with care agencies, nursing homes, or private families. Specialise in geriatric, paediatric, or palliative support care.
2 - 4 years - 5
Bridge to Registered Nursing (Optional)
Use experience plus additional CSEC/CAPE subjects to enter a BScN programme, or pursue overseas care opportunities (UK, Canada, US) where Jamaican carers are in demand.
Ongoing
Required Education
- CSEC English, Mathematics, and a science subject
- Practical Nursing / Geriatric Aide certification (HEART or accredited school)
- First Aid & CPR certification
Common Local Certifications
- HEART/NSTA - NVQ-J Level 2 in Geriatric Care (Qualifications Registry of Jamaica)
- First Aid & CPR (Red Cross / Heart Foundation)
- Food Handler's Permit (for live-in care roles)
Where to Train
Local Institutions Offering Programs
- HEART/NSTA Trust - practical nursing and patient care assistant programmes
- Excelsior Community College, School of Nursing (Nursing Council approved for general nursing)
- Confirm with the Nursing Council of Jamaica that a programme is approved before enrolling