North Carolina CNA Program Basics
CNAs in the state of North Carolina have different levels. The most typical nurse aide is CNA1, which requires less training than CNA2. Although nurse aides in CNA1 level may not perform the same duties of a higher level CNA, their job description is similar to that of all CNAs all over the U.S. CNA1s provide assistance to nurses in taking care of patients and residents of nursing homes and other long term care facilities These nurse aides provide personal care, check vitals and assistance to nurses in all areas of patient care. CNA2 which is the next level of CNA may administer certain medications and perform some LPN/VPNs roles.
North Carolina CNA Training Requirements
- In order to become a CNA1, the nurse aide must complete an intensive training program that meets or exceeds the federal regulations of 70 hours minimum training duration.
- This training course covers numerous topics about healthcare – from basic nursing to emergency procedures.
- The training program has two sections – manual skills and classroom studies.
- Trainees will be taught how to protect patients and themselves from infectious disease transfer, which is very important in a facility setting.
- Prior to becoming a certified nurse aide, the applicant must provide proof of immunizations that may include titers – a blood draw to check for immunity to certain diseases.
- A lot of facilities in North Carolina provide vaccinations to their nurse aides, such as the flu shot and Hepatitis B series of inoculations.
- These CNA training courses are offered by facilities, community colleges and even in high schools to help aspiring nurse aides to pursue a healthcare career.
- For most people, obtaining CNA certification is only the first step in their career.
North Carolina CNA Examination Information
- After completing the CNA training program, the student will sit for the state’s final exam.
- The state examination is divided into two parts – a written evaluation and a manual skills exam.
- Prior to proceeding to the manual skills evaluation, the student must receive a passing grade on the written test.
- CNA certification is granted only if the examinee passes both sections of the assessment.
- As with other states, the CNA candidate will be given 3 chances to pass the state examination.
- In the event of failure to gain a passing score after 3 attempts, the student must retake the training course.
North Carolina CNA Certification Renewal
- Nurse Aides must apply for license renewal every 2 years.
- During the 24-month period, the CNA must have worked for payment in either in-facility or private care setting.
- CNAs providing private care must keep all record of payments to qualify for renewal.
- Employers may need to fill out the renewal form for certified nurse aides that were certified through their in-facility training courses.
