How to Attain a CNA Certification

CNA Certification—How to Attain it and What It Can Be Used for

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) are also called nursing aides. Registered nurses and other top medical staff directly supervise CNAs. CNAs respond to calls from patients needing assistance. CNAs will help with feeding, stripping down bedding, and helping patients with bathing and dressing. CNAs are trained to take vital signs, and deliver specimens. CNAs must observe the patient’s moods and mental conditions and give feedback to nursing staff. CNAs have a significant amount of contact with the patient, more so than other medical staff members do. CNAs can find jobs in hospitals, nursing care agencies, physician’s offices, and outpatient clinics.

CNAs can work 40-hour weeks or more because of the demand for 24-hour patient care. However, part-time schedules are also frequent because of the available hours. CNAs have a demanding job and find themselves on their feet for the majority of their shift. CNAs must protect against injury and potential threat of getting airborne diseases. The responsibilities of a CNA may include unpopular tasks such as removing soiled bedding and emptying bedpans. However, many tasks are rewarding, such as seeing a patient’s progress based on the care you provide.

Most states require some training to become a CNA and can require the completion of up to 85 hours of training – after which, certification must be obtained. You can find information for state requirements via your state’s nurse registry or the department of health.

Many CNAs get their training in high school. Technical and vocational schools also offer CNA programs along with nursing facilities and the Red Cross. Courses in a CNA program may include anatomy and physiology, interpersonal skills, communication skills, patient rights and independence, infection control, and courses covering other basic nursing skills.

The median hourly wage in the United States for a CNA is approximately $11, however, that figure can change based upon experience and region. The demand for CNAs is enormous. This is a great time to enter the health care field. If you are looking for job security and want to get your feet wet in the health care industry, CNA training may just be the avenue for you. This is one field that when they say ‘no experience necessary,’ they mean it.

However, there are a few requirements that must be met before entering into an accredited program:

• All states require that you be at least 18 years of age.
• Depending on your state, a high school diploma or GED is also required.
• After being accepted, students are required to pass a physical exam.
• Submitting to and passing a criminal background check is often conducted for patient safety.