How to Become a CNA
Aug 01, 2023
If you're looking at a career as a certified nursing assistant, it's important to be knowledgeable about what you need in order to secure a job such as this one.
Certified nursing assistants play an important role in the healthcare industry, providing direct patient care as well as assisting healthcare professionals in their own daily duties.
This guide will help you understand exactly what's needed to step into a role as a certified nursing assistant and the opportunities available within this career path.
Educational requirements to become a CNA
There are a number of educational requirements you'll need to attain before becoming a nursing assistant. While all states have their own guidelines and requirements, many will require the following.
High School Diploma or Equivalent
A standard educational requirement across many healthcare roles is a high school diploma or GED. This will allow you to step into one of the many state-approved training programs available for nursing assistants.
Complete a state-approved CNA training program
Talking of CNA training programs, to become a CNA in many states, you'll need CNA training and CNA certification.
There are many CNA programs out there, but you'll want to ensure the one you pick is a state-approved training program. At FHCA, we provide a variety of courses to help budding students enter into the healthcare career field of their choice. If you're looking for some of the best CNA programs out there, you can trust the FHCA to deliver the very best.
Clinical Training
After you've completed your CNA training program, you'll then have further nursing assistant training in person. These are clinical training sessions that take place in either a hospital or other healthcare facility.
You'll want at least 16 hours of 'hands-on' clinical experience according to federal regulations. However, you may find many states exceed this minimum. This part of career development enables the individual to learn everything there is to know. From the day-to-day tasks of a CNA to learning all the relevant terminology and nursing standards.
Basic Life Support BLS and AED Training
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you will also be required to undergo additional training in either Basic Life Support (BLS) or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), which includes the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
CPR is an abbreviation for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, a life-saving technique that combines chest compressions and rescue breaths to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation in a person experiencing cardiac arrest or respiratory distress.
AED, on the other hand, refers to the Automated External Defibrillator, a portable device that can analyze a person's heart rhythm and deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat if necessary.
While there is a significant overlap between BLS and CPR, individuals may choose to become certified in one or the other, based on their specific interests and career aspirations. Both certifications are invaluable in healthcare settings, equipping you with the necessary knowledge and skills to respond effectively during critical situations, potentially saving lives.
State Certification Exam
You'll need to take a state certification exam as the final stage of this process, which means you need to complete nursing assistant training to be eligible. This exam is designed to help confirm you have the knowledge and skills to administer the nursing care needed within this role.
It covers a variety of topics from physical care skills to questions about anatomy and emergency procedures. In addition to the written exam, you will also need to pass a clinical skills exam. The CNA clinical skills exam tests your ability to perform the skills that are essential for a CNA
It's certainly worth checking out your state's nursing board to know exactly what educational requirements you'll need for certified nursing assistants.
CNA certification process
To become a CNA, the certification process is worth being aware of so that you can fast-track your progress to get closer to working as a nursing assistant. Here's everything you can expect as part of the certification process.
1. Complete a state-approved CNA training program
Firstly, you'll want to complete a state-approved CNA training program. Make sure this is an accredited institution and look out for the best ones recommended in the state you wish to practice in. Upon the completion of the program, you'll need to ensure you meet all of the relevant requirements when it comes to minimum training/clinical hours completed.
2. Submit application
After you complete training, you'll then need to submit your application to become a CNA. This involves paying any relevant fees as well as completing fingerprinting and background checks. It's important to know that you'll need to submit your application. within a set timeframe after you've completed the training.
3. Take the certification exam
Finally, you'll need to take the certification exam. This exam has two parts to it, the written or oral portion and the clinical skills section. The written exam is typically a multiple-choice question structure and the clinical skills exam usually involves a registered or licensed practical nurse who will ask the test-taker to demonstrate a handful of skills related to the daily duties carried out by CNAs.
If you're interested in learning about obtaining a CNA license in Florida, we invite you to explore our article.
Opportunities for professional growth as a CNA
It's worth exploring what professional growth opportunities come from being a CNA, especially when it comes to important factors like a CNA salary on average.
There are similar jobs that a CNA can go into, which is why it's worth looking at some comparisons from Home health aide vs. CNA to a Medical assistant vs. CNA.
Each role has its perks and there are ranks that a CNA is able to climb in order to unlock more opportunities and financial growth too. CNAs are always in demand and with the variety of work settings available, it means a lot of individuals going into this career field, can pick and choose where they go.
Work settings where CNAs are employed
Where can a CNA work? One of the great perks of a career as a certified nursing assistant is that you have a variety of work settings to choose from, each offering unique opportunities to apply your skills and handle diverse nursing interview questions. Here is a list of work settings that you can explore when you become a CNA.
- Hospitals
- Nursing Care Facilities/Assisted Living Facilities
- Private Doctors' Offices
- Urgent Care Centers
- Community Clinics
- Hospice
How to become a CNA FAQs
1. How long does it take to become a CNA?
To complete a CNA program, it's usually anywhere between four and sixteen weeks. You'll then need to take the certification exam before you become a CNA.
2. How can I renew my CNA license?
A CNA license is valid for 24 months and for many states, as long as you've worked as a CNA for at least eight hours during this time, you'll be eligible for a renewal. You'll need to complete a renewal form and submit it to your state's board.
3. How long does my CNA license last?
Your CNA license is valid for 24 months and after which, you'll need to renew your license to continue operating with a license.
