CNA Certification Check List: What to Do To Become a Certified Nursing Assistant
You have made the decision to become a certified nursing assistant but you are not sure how to reach your goal. Many people who want to become CNAs have always wanted to work in a hospital caring for patients based on genuine care and generosity.
Others realize later on in life that they want to pursue a career as a CNA because nothing makes them feel better than helping those in need.
The bottom line is that you have made up your mind to become a CNA. Below are a few steps to take to get CNA certification and become a certified nursing assistant.
Step #1: Research the Profession
Although you have your heart and mind set on becoming a CNA, it is very important to research the profession of a certified nursing assistant before you go any further. Some things to consider while doing your research is salary, the duties of a certified nursing assistant and the skills necessary for the job. A great way to learn about the profession is to actually volunteer at a hospital to get hands on experience.
Step #2: Fulfill All Requirements
Like most jobs, certified nursing assistants have to fulfill certain requirements before they can get CNA certification. You will need at least a high school diploma in many states to become a CNA.
Step #3: Find CNA Training Programs
Once you have your requirements, you must find a CNA training program to apply to. You have to first determine whether you want to get online CNA certification training or if you want to go to an actual campus. Some things to consider are your budget for training, your schedule and other responsibilities. Getting trained for a career that you are passion about is a very important part of the process. To find programs, you must research both local and out of state programs. Some people don’t mind moving out of state to get training while others prefer to stay by their families.
Step #4: Enroll in Your Chosen Program
After you do your research and you find the program you want to be part of, send your application to enroll. Be sure to fill out all the requirements and do all the paperwork accurately for the CNA training program.
Step #5: Do Your Best During CNA Training
Every state has its own CNA program requirements and it is important for you to be aware of them. Most states require 75 hours of coursework and 16 hours of clinical practice. It is critical to pay attention and do your best during training so that you can pass the CNA Certification Exam.
Step #6: Study for and Take the CNA Certification Exam
After CNA training is completed, you must take the CNA certification exam to actually get certified. This test is administered by the state and is made up of two parts. It is important to study hard for the written part of the test and be prepared for the performance part.