If you wish to be recognized as a certified nursing assistant, you will have to first fulfill the mandatory CNA certification requirements, which involves passing the official CNA examination. The primary exam for certification is the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) which covers written, oral and areas that cover skill-testing. Multiple choice questions have to be answered as part of the written examination. The Oral tests are conducted to test your skills as a student, in addition to which you will be asked to demonstrate or perform various skills in a hospital-like setting.
CNA Certification Requirements
The CNA training program takes 9 months to a year to complete. Various programs are offered so you should make sure that you select a program that is approved by the American Nurse Association Commission of Nurse Accreditation. This association offers placement and recognition on their Nurse Aide Registry. You will have to renew your CNA certification every year. There are other requirements for CNA certification.
A common state requirement is that trainees qualifying for jobs should pass a medical examination and be drug-free. There should be no criminal record against your name and you should submit to a background check. Since a Certified Nursing Assistant’s job involves close contact with sick people, it is important to have a caring and pleasant disposition. This is a highly challenging yet rewarding job for candidates who can deal with various situations calmly.
It is Possible to Get Free CNA Training
Free CNA training is available in some hospitals and nursing homes where employers help you get through the certification process for nursing assistant training. You will have to sign a contract with them when you qualify as a certified nursing assistant. They may expect you to work with them for a stipulated period without pay in return for the training. CNA Online training programs are available for working people so that you can work at flexible hours and complete the certification course at your own pace. Red Cross CNA training is another option for students who are looking for good training programs.
Preparing for the CNA Certification Exam
Prepare well for the CNA certification exam by covering the entire syllabus. Check out the requirements of the state where you wish to practice as they may have certain regulations regarding examination requirements. Try to familiarize yourself with the format of the test by investing in a good guide which will have practice and model tests that will make it easier for you as revision so that you pass the certified nursing assistant course with flying colors. You will have to pass both theoretical and practical tests. Make sure you are relaxed and eat healthy foods so that you are able to pass the tests calmly and capably.
Several community colleges and vocational schools offer CNA training programs that are of short duration and accredited by the state. Programs generally offer 100 to 120 hours of training time which includes classroom as well as practical training. Patient care, good hygiene, rights, legal responsibilities, daily procedures, emergency procedures, CPR, handling emergency cardio requirement are all taught at these institutions to encourage students to become responsible caring health providers. These courses will typically help you to meet all the CNA certification requirements.
