Training For Certified Nursing Assistant
If you’re interested in becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA), it’s important to understand what kind of training is required to get started. CNA programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and even online. Different types of schools offer different levels of depth and breadth in their curriculum; for example, some will focus on just basic skills while others include more general topics like how to interact with patients.
Training For Certified Nursing Assistant
1 How to Choose a Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program
Choosing a nursing assistant training program is a big decision that requires careful consideration. In this section, you will learn how to choose a school that meets your needs as well as the requirements of your state.
- Research the School: While researching the school, ask yourself these questions: What is the philosophy of this school? Is it accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S Department of Education? Are there any complaints against this institution? Who are the instructors at this institution? Is there a location near me where I can attend classes if needed? How many credits are required for graduation and what happens if I don’t graduate on time with all my credits (can I keep my student status until all my classes have been completed)? What kinds of financial aid does this school offer (scholarships, grants, loans)?
2 Common Topics for Certified Nursing Assistant Training Programs
When you enroll in a CNA training program, you will be taught how to care for residents and patients. In addition to classroom training, students will spend time observing experienced CNAs in the field. The curriculum includes lessons on:
- How to care for residents
- How to care for patients
- How to administer medications
- How to assist with treatments
- How to perform basic nursing procedures
- First-aid techniques (including CPR) * Basic life support and resuscitation techniques
3 Online CNA Courses
Online CNA courses are convenient, affordable and flexible. They are also suited to your schedule and accessible on your computer or mobile device.
While an online course is not the same as a classroom setting, it is still very effective in preparing you for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam. You will be able to learn with other students from all over the world who share your goals for success. Online instructors are available to help you throughout your online learning experience by answering questions via email or phone calls during regular business hours Monday through Friday from 8:00am until 5:00pm EST by calling 713-842-1025 .
4 CNA Licensure and Certification Information
CNA certification is available in all 50 states. However, certification is not required to work as a CNA in every state. In some states, it’s also possible to become a licensed nursing aide by training on the job and passing an exam. The requirements for certification vary from state to state; some require that you pass an exam, while others don’t have any specific prerequisites for obtaining your license or certificate of completion (CC).
A growing number of states require that CNAs are certified through their respective state’s Board of Nursing (BON) before they can legally practice nursing care services within their scope of practice. The BON may also impose additional licensing requirements on CNAs who want to work there, such as passing criminal background checks and drug testing exams as part of their application process.[1]
5 How Can I Enroll in a Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program?
- Check with your local community college. Many community colleges offer nursing assistant training programs, and they’re usually one of the more affordable options.
- Check with your local hospital. Many hospitals offer free or discounted CNA training to their employees and/or retirees; this may also be an option for you if you’re looking for a program that has a good reputation for helping people pass their certification exam.
- Check with your local nursing home. Nursing homes are often staffed by CNAs who have taken a course from one of the organizations listed above, so it’s worth asking if they can recommend any programs in your area. Whether or not the courses offered by these institutions are free depends largely on whether there is a strong relationship between the institution and whoever pays their bills (e.g., Medicare).
6 You can find training to become a certified nursing assistant.
There are several ways to train to become a certified nursing assistant. You can find training in person, online and through self-study materials. The length and cost of the program varies by location. Most programs start with an assessment or screening exam.
The best way to find out if you’re ready for the CNA certification test is to enroll in an accredited nursing assistant class and practice taking sample tests beforehand. The best preparation for this exam ensures that you have at least 100 hours of hands-on experience working with seniors before taking it; however, some states require less than 100 hours in order for you to be eligible for their state’s certification exam (for example: Virginia requires 75 hours).
Closing
CNA training can be an excellent way to get into the nursing field. It’s a great way to get your foot in the door and start working toward becoming a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. With so many different types of programs available, it should be easy for you to choose one that will meet your needs. We hope this article helped you understand what it takes to become certified nursing assistant as well as how much training time is required before taking exam from national association (NA)