Becoming a CNA in Arizona

Getting started with CNA Training in Arizona

Becoming registered as a nurse aide in Arizona requires the completion of an accredited Arizona CNA training program. You will find a number of dynamic training programs offered in local community colleges, high schools, licensed medical facilities and other training sites approved by the state. Certification further requires that the student passes a nursing aide assessment examination and be found fit to perform nursing aide duties. The need for certified nurse aides in Arizona is overwhelming following a state wide shortage of nurses. There could not be a better time to join this fast paced, exciting career.

Enrollment and Completion of CNA Classes in Arizona

Step 1:

The first step is finding an approved program in Arizona that fist your needs:

Find a CNA Training Program

To attend nursing assistant schools which are approved by the state of Arizona, you will generally have to have a high school diploma or at least a GED. Furthermore, there are many training programs that will require you to pass the the Health Education Systems Inc Exam with at least 75%. In addition to these requirements, a health screening and background report are required by the federal law for each applying student.

Nursing Aides who are applying for CNA certification will also be required to go through a criminal background check and fingerprint live scan procedure.   This helps the state protect their elderly frompeople of low values that may seek to harm or abuse them. You will also need to be in good physical health and carry no contagious diseases. A thorough physical examination, blood tests, and a two-part tuberculosis evaluation will be required before you undergo any clinical training in a medical setting.

Step 2:

You must make time to allow for 120 hours worth of training over a (depending on your program) a 3-8 month period. You should further be prepared to spend a portion of these hours in a clinical setting and the vast majority of hours in a classroom setting.

CNA training in Arizona will follow a state curriculum as according to federal outlines. In the classes you will be trained on the general nursing assistant skills that involve caring for the patients, providing services to the supervising nurse at your facility, as well as CPR certification and patient safety techniques.  Additionally you can expect to learn the basics of human anatomy and physiology during your program.

Step 3:

The national nursing assistant assessment exam is usually provided by the training school at the end of your courses. There is a $50 fee associated with it. During the exam, you will be expected to get no more than 25% incorrect on a written examination and no more than 20% incorrect on a practical assessment test. Upon doing this, you will be allowed to apply with the Arizona State Board of Nursing to be listed on the Arizona Nurse Aide Registry. To keep your registration in good standing, you will have to renew every 2 years while maintaining no less than 160 hours of employment during that time.

CNA Testing Procedures and Applying for CNA Certification in Arizona

Step 1:

Now that you have pass and completed your CNA Training Program it is time to begin the process of testing and applying for your CNA certification.   The test will be held by  the D&S Diversified Technology Testing Company.  It is important that you mail the appropriate documentation to the Arizona State Board Prior to taking the test.  Required documentation can be found here.

Also take a second to check out our practice test area, and prep yourself for the exam.

Step 2:

When you arrive to take your certification exam, make sure to bring along your photo ID, fingerprint cards, a copy of your training school certificate, and extra #2 pencils. Dress comfortably, as you will be at the testing center for a few hours. The exam is in two parts, and you will first display five of your nurse aide practical skills before a registered nurse. If successfully completed, you will move on the take the multiple choice portion of the test which is usually 50-60 question in length. If you pass, your name will be added to the Arizona Nurse Aide Registry.

Step 3:

Upon Passing the board exam you will then be considered a CNA in the state of Arizona.   You can check to make sure you are in the state registry by going to their website Here.

Once you have all of your licenses completed, be sure to fill out a resume and portfolio in our career database.  This will make it easy for you and employers to connect.

Step 4:

Do not make the mistake of stopping your education here.  Yes this is a great career field and it is very rewarding, but you need to think about your future.   Look into what kind of educational opportunities are available in your state for Registered Nursng or LPN Degree.

For Additional Information:

Arizona Nurse Aide Registry

4747 North 7th Street
Suite 200
Phoenix, Arizona 85014
Phone: (602) 889-5150

https://www.azbn.gov/OnlineVerification.aspx