Are you interested in starting a career in the nursing profession? A great way to enter this field is by becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA). CNAs play a crucial role in providing basic care services to patients, such as feeding, bathing, and monitoring vital signs. If you’re considering becoming a CNA, there are various training programs available nationwide to help you kickstart your career.
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Choosing the Right CNA Program
When selecting a CNA training program, there are a few factors that you should keep in mind:
State Approval
Each state has specific requirements for CNAs, so it’s essential to choose a program that is approved by your state. By attending an approved program, you can ensure that you’ll meet the necessary requirements for certification after completing your training. While CNA programs across the country teach the same fundamental care principles, the number of classroom and clinical hours required may vary between states.
Program Cost
The cost of CNA programs can vary depending on the school, but generally, they are more affordable than LPN training programs. When calculating the total cost, be sure to consider additional expenses like books, uniforms, background checks, medical examinations, and certification exam fees.
Time Commitment
CNA training programs typically take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks to complete. This relatively short duration allows you to enter the workforce quickly compared to aspiring LPNs or RNs. Many individuals use CNA positions as a stepping stone to explore the nursing profession and may choose to pursue advanced nursing roles in the future.
Online vs. On Campus
If you have other responsibilities, such as work or family obligations, you might want to consider an online CNA program. Online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to complete assignments at your own pace and from the comfort of your home. Some traditional classroom programs also offer evening and weekend classes to accommodate students with limited availability.
Online CNA Classes & Programs
An increasing number of schools now offer online CNA courses, providing students with the opportunity to complete their training on a schedule that suits them. While in-person clinical practice is typically required, certain aspects of the coursework lend themselves well to online learning.
Benefits of Online CNA Classes
Online nursing aide courses offer flexibility and convenience. By choosing an online program, you can study at your own pace and select from a wider range of schools. Additionally, online courses often have shorter completion times compared to traditional classroom programs. They may also be more cost-effective, eliminating the need for commuting and parking expenses.
Admissions and Certification Requirements for CNAs
Most CNA programs have the following admissions requirements:
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Physical examination and TB test
- Criminal background check
Some schools may prefer applicants with healthcare experience or volunteer work. Upon completing the required classroom and clinical training hours, you’ll need to pass a state-approved certification exam to become a CNA. The National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam is widely used to assess competency for aspiring nursing aides.
CNA Curriculum & Program Information
Sample Coursework
CNA training programs cover a range of topics to prepare you for the nursing assistant certification exam. You’ll learn essential skills such as CPR, first aid, patient caregiving, infection control, and safety protocols. Programs offered by healthcare institutions may provide specialized training tailored to their patient population, whether it’s elderly residents in a nursing home or patients in a home healthcare setting. Hands-on training allows you to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios, working directly with patients.
Program Length
On average, CNA training programs can be completed within 6 to 12 weeks, with some accelerated programs taking as little as 4 weeks. The duration of your training can depend on factors such as the type of school, whether you’re studying full-time or part-time, and whether you’re taking self-paced online courses. The shorter completion time of CNA programs makes them an attractive option for individuals eager to start their nursing careers promptly.
Cost of CNA Training Programs
Compared to an Associate’s Degree in Nursing or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, CNA training programs are more affordable. Exact costs can vary based on the school and location. For example, the American Red Cross offers CNA training programs nationwide, with costs ranging from $1,300 in Pennsylvania. It’s important to inquire about additional expenses like uniforms, supplies, books, and certification exam fees when researching programs.
State Approval & Certification
Each state has specific education and certification requirements for CNAs. Make sure to choose a program approved by your state to ensure eligibility for the certification exam. State-specific competency exams cover topics such as daily activities, safety, infection control, data collection and reporting, as well as legal and ethical issues. Once you pass the exam, you’ll be ready to work as a certified nursing assistant!
Continuing Education
CNAs, like other nursing professionals, need to meet continuing education requirements set by their state for re-certification. Typically, CNAs must complete 48 hours of continuing education courses every 24 months. Check with your state’s board of nursing or health for specific requirements in your state.