Becoming a CNA in California

Steps to CNA Training in California

If you are looking to become certified as a CNA or Nurse aide in the state of California, this is a step by step guide that will help you achieve just that.If you wish to become certified to practice as a nursing assistant in California, you will have to finish a CNA training program that is approved through California Department of Public Health’s Aide and the Technician Certification Section (ATCS).In addition to the training, the nurse assistant will be mandated to sit for a state issued Nurse Aide Examination. Both the training and the exam will need to be passed for certification on the California Nursing Assistant Registry.

Enrollment and Completion of CNA Classes in California

Step 1:

Find an approved program in your state:
Find a CNA Training Program

Training courses at the state school will be based on a range of state approved subjects such as infection control, using equipment in the medical field, preparing patient meals and status reports, communication among peers and patients, abuse recognition, establishing and promoting independence among the residents, proficiency in the medical language as well as monitoring patient vitals, fluid intakes and mental state.

Step 2:

CNA Programs are mandated to include 150 hours minimum training time. These courses can be taken at any state approved facilities, care centers, schools and establishments within the state.   It is also possible sometimes to take the program at your place of employment if approved by the state beforehand.

Make sure that the school you choose offers clinical hours, this is a requirement in order to get your certification in California.

Step 3:

Your training hours will be separated into a hundred hours in practical training at a licensed facility and 50 hours of in class coursework. You will be required to meet physical nursing aide requirements as well as undergo a criminal background process when you enroll. There will also be a mandatory CPR class included in your program.  All certified nurisng assistants in the state of California must have a CPR certification to practice.

CNA Testing Procedures and Applying for CNA Certification in California

Step 1:

Once you conclude your classes, you will need to fill out an application to sit for the state licensing examination. There are typically fees involved in the registration process, and you should be able to obtain that information from the staff or at the website of the California Nurse Aide Registry. Once you receive a testing date, be ready to review all of your materials from the course you took, and make sure to get a good night’s rest the day before the exam.

The exam is contracted by Pro-metric testing services. The exam can be taken at any approved testing site as listed on the website of Pro Metric.  An applicant, in order to test,  will be required to bring proof of identity, proof of a completed training program and as well as prepay all related certification fees.

Step 2:

It is advisable to show up at least 30 minutes early for the exam, as it will give testing administrators time to check you in, review your ID, and it will also give you time to emotionally prepare to conquer the test. The test is given in two parts: One section involves hands-on practical skills demonstrations, and the second part is  multiple choice questions. Both sections must be passed in order to receive you certification and be added to the California Nurse Aide Registry.

Scoring for the practical portion is calculated by the test giver and all skills must be a hundred percent accurate in order to pass. Upon successful completion of this exam you will be issued a CNA certification and a registry ID.

The CNA Certification will need to be renewed every two years to maintain employment eligibility. The renewal department is responsible for reminding the CNA of their upcoming renewal nine weeks prior to the renewal deadline, but ultimately, you should keep track for yourself, for extra precautions.

Step 3:

Once you have received your certification you can begin looking for employment,   There are many different career opportunities to choose from as a CNA.   Make sure to create a resume and profile to join our employment database and to begin your job search.  This will make it far easier for you to market yourself and for employers to find you.

Step 4:

We recommend to push forward with you education after becoming a CNA.  The education you receive as a CNA is a great jumping off point to become a registered nurse or a LPN.   Continue educating yourself, and you will find your career grows more and more rewarding with each step.
For more information regarding CNA training feel free to contact the state registry.

California Nurse Aid Registry
1615 Capital Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95899
Phone: 916-327-2445

http://www.apps.cdph.ca.gov/cvl/

http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/displaycode?section=hsc&group=01001-02000&file=1337-1338.5