Accredited CNA Programs

In order to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, you need to undergo the CNA training by enrolling for the CNA program. The CNA training program equips you with all the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills required in the nursing profession. However, before enrolling for the CNA program, you need to ensure that the CNA training program is an accredited one. Accredited CNA programs ensure that candidates complete the program as per the set standards of the medical or healthcare industry.

Accredited CNA programs are programs that are recognized by the state's health department. The accredited CNA programs are approved by the state and the proof of the same needs to be submitted at the time of applying for the CNA certification examination. In order to get information about the accredited CNA programs, you can either surf the Internet or simply check with the health department of the respective state. If you enroll for a CNA program that is not accredited, then there are chances that you will be disqualified from appearing for the CNA exam. Hence, while selecting a CNA training program, ensure that it is an accredited one or else you land up wasting all your money, time and efforts.

Accredited CNA Training Programs: Features

Accredited CNA programs fulfill all the necessary requirements as laid down by the US Federal Laws as well as by the respective state's health department. The training is for 75 hours minimum out of which 24 hours are devoted to practical or clinical training. However, the accredited CNA programs tend to extend beyond the mandatory training requirements.

The theoretical knowledge as well as the practical training provided in the accredited CNA programs tend to be of the best quality and standards. Candidates who enroll for these programs get very well trained in the nursing profession. The accredited CNA programs also help you clear the certification examination with ease. One of the features of these accredited CNA programs is that they give ample opportunities to the candidates for practice tests so that the candidates can master their skills and knowledge to clear the certification exam.

One of the major features of the accredited CNA programs is that the program structure is strictly scrutinized by the health departments. All the schools, colleges and universities as well as healthcare facilities offering these programs need to take care to maintain the set standards, or else the programs offered by them will no longer feature in the health department's list of accredited CNA programs.

Accredited CNA Training Programs: California

By enrolling for the accredited CNA program in California, you can beat the tough economic conditions. As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a projected growth in the demand for CNAs by 30% over the next ten years. With the help of this program, you can expect a 20-30% rise in your income in a period of less than a month. You will be in a position to earn all the money (around $500) that you spent on the CNA program and have a successful career in the nursing field.

Accredited CNA Training Programs: Florida 

Accredited CNA programs in Florida are cost effective. The accredited CNA program in Florida prepares the candidates to face challenging situations in the healthcare industry. It trains you to take care of patients who are sick and need constant support. The knowledge and skills gained by the candidates fulfill the best standard requirements, and CNAs can thus have a rewarding career in the nursing industry.

Accredited CNA Training Programs: Georgia 

Accredited CNA programs in Georgia are different from other states as they are not managed by the state of Georgia. Here, the CNA programs are taken care of by the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program run by the British testing organization. The accredited CNA programs in Georgia require the CNAs to undergo a minimum of 12 hours of practical training after every 2 years.

Accredited CNA Training Programs: Illinois 

 There are a limited number of accredited CNA programs in Illinois, and hence they tend to differ from the other states. After completing the accredited CNA programs from Illinois, the names of the CNAs is registered and this does not expire provided the CNA is employed. A conventional CNA license is not provided to the CNAs upon completion of the CNA training.

Accredited CNA Training Programs: Michigan 

In case you cannot afford to or do not wish to spend much time for the CNA training, you can always opt for the accredited CNA programs in Michigan. In less than a month's time you will be well equipped with all the knowledge and skills to make a successful career in the nursing field. You will be taught how to take care of patients and help them in doing their daily tasks such as bathing, feeding and dressing. You can excel in your nursing career with the accredited CNA programs in Michigan.

Accredited CNA programs are thus programs that meet the standard healthcare industry requirements and are also approved by the state's health department. You can be sure of getting the best theoretical and practical training with the accredited CNA programs to be successful in the nursing profession.

Pros and Cons of CNA Online Training

If you are busy with your daily routine and your profession, and still want to pursue the CNA training course, then the CNA online training will be the best option for you. The demand for medical professional has increased with time and so has the demand for Certified Nursing Assistants. The CNA online programs are becoming increasingly popular among working professionals as well as students because of the flexibility offered by these online programs.

There are several individuals who wish to become a CNA, but do not have enough time to attend the full time CNA classes. Working professionals also cannot afford to let go of their job and take up the CNA full time programs. In such cases, the CNA online programs are the best option to go in for.

You need to be aware of the responsibilities of CNA, before choosing the CNA online programs. CNAs are usually responsible for taking care of the patients in the hospitals and clinics and helping them perform their daily activities like combing hair, bathing, dressing, feeding and so on. The job of a CNA is important in the medical field and hence there will always be opportunities for CNAs. So, if you are really passionate about pursuing a career in the medical field and taking up the responsibilities that the job of a CNA demands, then choose the CNA online training programs.

CNA programs are offered by nursing schools, community colleges as well as universities. It is very rare that you will find a CNA online training program that is free of cost. However, nowadays free online CNA programs are also made available. The CNA online training programs give you the liberty to continue with your work schedule while you still pursue the training online.

The online CNA training programs are flexible; but this does not mean that they are very easy to complete. You will have to put in the same amount of effort and dedication as you put in the regular CNA training programs. You also need to plan your work properly and set your priorities rightly, so that you are able to meet the online program deadlines. You also need to keep in mind that though the training for CNA is online, you need to appear for the CNA exam in person. Hence, a certain amount of dedication is required from your end to fulfill all the necessary obligations of the CNA online programs.

The CNA online training programs prepares you to pass the CNA exam which is administered by the state. In this CNA exam, you need to demonstrate that you possess all the necessary knowledge to become a CNA. You need to thus attend this exam in person. You need to be thoroughly prepared with all that is taught in the online CNA training program, so that you can clear the CNA exam successfully.

CNA Online Training – Advantages 

• When you opt for the CNA online training programs, you are at an advantage to choose a location while studying for the program. You can either study the online program at home or even at your office or work place. You don't need to attend regular college classes and can choose the time as well as location that suits you best. When the college of your choice is not located near you residence, you may land up spending a lot of time just traveling. Thus, the distance learning facility offered by the CNA online training programs is a good way to save time.
• Another advantage of the CNA online training course is that you don't need to give up your job while pursuing the online course. If you were doing the regular CNA program, you would probably have to quit your job to be able to give that much time for the course completion. However, with CNA online training, you can continue your job alongside the course. As you are continuing your job, you also don't need to worry much about your finances. 
• The fees for the CNA online training are relatively lower in comparison to the full time courses. This is also one of the important reasons why these programs are becoming a preferred choice among many CNA aspirants. 
• Many individuals are stressed for time and in such situations the CNA online training is best suited for them because of the flexibility offered by them. 

CNA Online Training – Disadvantages 

• In case of CNA online training programs, you lack the facility of direct interaction with the trainers. Hence, if you have any doubts while studying, you may at times get stuck, as there are no trainers available to clear your doubts immediately. 
• The interaction with peers, doctors or nurses will also not be present in case of online training programs because of which you may be unable to share your ideas and views with others. 
• Certain online training programs may also lack the facility of practical training because of which you may not be able to get a hands on experience on the clinical skills required for the CNA profession. 
• In case of regular class, you are able to actually test your skills with regard to handling the medical equipment, moving the patients and so on. This may not be present in case of online CNA training. 
• When you opt for the CNA online classes, you need to make sure that you are well disciplined in order to give the necessary time to fulfill the necessary obligations. You need to ensure that you study on time and complete all the course work within the deadlines. If you cannot plan your priorities and are not disciplined enough, then the CNA online training may prove to be a waste of time and money. 

When you enroll for any CNA online training program, make sure that the program is recognized by the state. Also, make sure that the online training offers practical sessions required to become a CNA. Check the credentials of the college that is offering the CNA online training programs and make sure that you choose the best CNA online program to achieve your goal of becoming a CNA.

Overview of Online CNA Classes

The Internet has changed the education system because of all the technological advancements. The Internet has also changed the form of CNA education and online CNA classes are now being offered by many schools and educational and healthcare institutes. The online CNA classes are becoming increasingly popular among candidates, especially those who are employed and are pressed for time to attend the regular CNA classes. Here is a brief overview of online CNA classes.

What is an online CNA class? 

The online CNA classes are Internet based. These classes are generally conducted on a part time basis. Candidates can study with the help of e-books, audio and video tutorials as well as other online study material. All the important details about the online CNA classes are communicated to the candidates through the Internet medium. There is also a provision for live chat in case of the online CNA classes.

Duration of an online CNA class 

The duration of the online CNA classes is a little longer than the regular CNA programs. Depending on the schools and the course curriculum, the online CNA classes may take 3 to 6 months for completion. These classes prepare you for the CNA certification examination by making you well equipped with all the necessary knowledge.

Admission requirements for online CNA class 

 In order to enroll for the CNA online classes, you need to be minimum 18 years of age. You also need to hold a high school diploma or a GED. Other than these mandatory requirements, you also need to have an Internet connection and a personal computer to access the online course.

Where to find online CNA classes? 

Majority of the areas of all the states in the U.S. have schools which offer online CNA classes. Vocational schools, community colleges and universities have the facility of online programs. There are some private nursing schools which also offer these programs. You can take help from the State Nursing Board to find out more information about such schools and colleges offering online CNA classes. You can also check for the accreditation details of the different schools from the State Nursing Board.

Criteria for selecting an online CNA school 

While selecting an online CNA school, make sure that it is an accredited one. The schools may offer the classes on a full time or part time basis via the medium of the Internet. If the school is accredited, then you can be sure that you will get the best quality of education and online training. It also will help you in your job search, as certification from an accredited school will be given due importance. You can refer to the nursing education commission to obtain the list of schools that are accredited.

Online CNA Classes ‒ Advantages 

• Convenience: When you opt for online CNA classes, you are studying with the help of the Internet and you can access the information as per your convenience anytime. You can study while you are at home. You simply need a computer and an Internet connection and you are set for studying the online course. 
• Distance: Distance will not be a problem when you opt to study online. Even if the CNA school is located at great distance, it does not matter as all the information related to the CNA course will be available online.
• Cost-effectiveness: You don't need to be physically present to attend the CNA classes in the classroom. Hence, you land up saving on the transportation costs. At times, while pursuing the regular CNA classes, there might be a need for you to rent a flat that is near by to the school. However, with online training you save on that aspect as well as you don't need to relocate to a closer location. You can also save on the costs involved in purchasing the study materials, as with online training it is possible to download all the study material with the help of the Internet. 
• Flexibility: You can choose to study as per your schedule. You can decide on a time that suits you best for studies. If you are working, then you can start you studies online after returning from work or before going for work – whatever suits you best. You also have the flexibility of choosing to study based on your speed. You can refer to the study material online as and when you require and complete the course with flexible study hours. 

Online CNA Classes ‒ Disadvantages 

• Requires motivation: When it comes to online CNA classes, there is no one actually there to monitor you. Hence, you need to monitor your self and be motivated enough as well as disciplined enough to complete all the course requirements in time. It is quite likely that you will procrastinate and delay doing things, and this will increase your chances of failure. Online CNA classes thus require great motivation for successful completion. 
• No face-to-face meetings: In case of online training, there is no provision for face-to-face meetings with other candidates or professors which can be a major disadvantage. In case you have any doubts or questions about the course, it cannot be cleared there and then. 
• No clinical exposure: Another major disadvantage of the online CNA classes is that you do not get any clinical exposure. You can get all the theoretical information online, but it is not possible to get trained on the practical skills with the help of online classes. Thus, it might get difficult for you once you are on the job as you do not have any practical knowledge. 
• Incompetent schools: There are some online schools which are present just to mint money. You need to check the credentials of the online schools and details regarding their accreditation before enrolling with them to ensure that the schools are not incompetent.

Employment Outlook for CNAs

CNAs are in great demand in the healthcare industry and the employment outlook for CNAs is quite bright. CNAs are responsible for taking care of the patients in hospitals, clinics as well as other healthcare facilities. CNAs may at times be assigned to handle 12 or more patients at the same time. CNAs help the patients do their daily tasks such as bathing, feeding, dressing and moving. CNAs are also responsible for monitoring the health condition of the patients and reporting the same to the doctors. Apart from this they assist senior nurses and doctors in medical procedures and handle medical equipment and instruments. They are an important link between the patients and the nurses as well as doctors. CNAs thus need to handle their responsibilities in a proper manner and should remain calm and composed at all times to handle stressful situations.

Employment Outlook for CNAs 

The aging population is increasing, and hence the employment outlook for CNAs remains quite good, and this is expected to rise through 2016. There is a great demand for CNAs as they are an important aspect of the medical or healthcare industry and there are several job opportunities available for them.

As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment outlook for CNAs is projected to rise by 28% between 2006 and 2016. This rise in the growth opportunities in much higher as compared to other professions. This growth rate can be different for different individual in the nursing professions, psychiatric careers and residential or home health aides.

The demand for in-home services is growing by the day, and hence it becomes much easier for home health aides to secure a job as compared to other CNAs. This information is based on the reports provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is due to the fact that the aging or the elderly population is growing and hospitals as well as insurance agencies are taking efforts to keep the costs minimum. These healthcare facilities as well as agencies are now moving the elderly patients to their homes at a faster rate. Patients who need long term care are also being taken care at their homes with the help of advanced medical equipment and technologies to provide them all the necessary care.

Though it is easy for home health aides to get a job soon as compared to other CNAs, the employment growth rate for these home health aides is not that high as they work in a slow growing hospital sector. On the other hand, there are great number of employment opportunities for CNAs in nursing as well as hospitals, compared to residential care facilities.

Job Openings for CNAs 

According to the reports of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career openings for a Certified Nursing Assistants will be high between 2006 and 2016. This is because there are less opportunities for advancement, the pay is quite low and there are greater physical demands on the CNAs. Due to all these reasons, many CNAs are likely to quit their jobs for pursuing higher or specialized training.

CNA Salaries 

The career of a Certified Nursing Assistant is the starting point in the nursing profession, and hence CNAs do not get highly paid. In fact the salaries of the CNAs are the lowest as compared to other nursing professions. However, after becoming a CNA and acquiring all the necessary knowledge and experience, the CNAs can look at advancing their career to higher positions in the medical and healthcare industry.

The CNA salaries depend on may factors such as the state and type of healthcare facility they are working in, number and time of the shifts as well as if they are working on private contracts . CNAs tend to make more money if they are working on weekends and holidays or are working in night shifts.

The average salary for CNAs in California is about $24,000. It is lower in Texas and is about $20,000. The average wage for CNAs on an hourly basis in 2002 was $9.59. This hourly wage ranged from $6.98 to $13.45 per hour depending upon the state.

Statistics also reveal that CNAs working in schools, franchise or who were self employed earned much higher than CNAs working in companies as well as colleges.

Bright Career Outlook for CNAs 

CNAs are employed in various types of healthcare facilities such as hospitals, long term care facilities, clinics, adult care centers and so on. In the U.S., there are about 1.4 million CNAs who are employed in several healthcare facilities.

The rate of job growth for CNAs is way above the average growth rate for other professions. This growth rate is projected to be around 21% by 2014. There will be a requirement of 500,000 additional CNAs by this time. Thus the employment outlook for CNAs stays bright.

There are a lot of changes taking place in the medical field and the need for medical professionals is growing rapidly. Many CNAs quit their jobs to pursue higher education and specialized training to become Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). This opens many career opportunities for aspiring CNAs who want to make a career in the medical field.

CNA Insurance Programs

The CNA Insurance programs covers all the professional liabilities of CNAs. This type of insurance is also known as Errors and Omission Insurance. Basically, all individuals who are engaged in providing some kind of professional services to others need this kind of insurance. For instance, doctors, accountants, real estate brokers and lawyers all need insurance for their professional liability.

CNAs are healthcare or medical professionals who work under the guidance and supervision of senior nurses such as Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and doctors. The functional area of CNAs is usually non-medical. They help in taking care of the patients on a daily basis. In order to practice as a Certified Nursing Assistant, it is mandatory to undergo 75 hours of CNA training out of which 24 hours consists of clinical or practical training. This is a requirement as stated by the federal law. After completing the CNA training, you need to clear the CNA certification test and obtain a CNA license to start your practice as a CNA.

When professionals acquire a license to practice, they have to take care of their responsibilities towards the public or the society. They have to make sure that they abide by the law and follow all the rules, regulations and guidelines. For CNAs, it is essential that they are not found guilty of any kind of criminal act for the last 7 years when applying for a CNA certification. It is also very important to be physically fit and there should not be and transmissible disease detected. Based on the set of rules and regulations, the patients, hospitals or other healthcare facilities have the right to file a case against CNAs at any point in time.

CNA Liability Insurance 

It is necessary for all professionals to have insurance, and CNAs are no exceptions to this rule. CNA Liability Insurance can be provided to the CNAs for the following set of responsibilities: 

• CNAs should be in a position to take care of the patients in hospitals and clinics and other healthcare facilities. They should be able to manage patient transfers as well as take care of all the documentation work. In case the CNAs are not able to fulfill all the documentation requirements as per the given deadlines, the patient and his or her family members have the right to file a case against the CNA. 
• CNAs are also responsible for measuring and recording the patient's vitals such as blood pressure, body temperature and so on. CNAs need to ensure that the medical equipment for measuring the vitals is in a good working condition or else they may get into trouble. 
• CNAs help the patients in performing motion exercises. They need to handle the patients properly and take good care not to cause them any harm or else they will be held responsible. 
• In case when some patient requires cardiopulmonary resuscitation or certain kind of first aid, and if the CNAs fail to act in the right manner at the right time, a case can be filed against them. 

The above mentioned occupational hazards can work against CNAs and can put them in trouble. However, CNAs are also human beings and they can make mistakes. Hence, there is a need for having professional liability insurance. CNA insurance programs secure the professional liability of CNAs and also create awareness of risk among the CNAs so that they are able to focus all their energy in fulfilling their duties to the best of their ability and giving best patient care. Other than the insurance policy provided by you employer, you also need to have a personal insurance policy that secures your professional liability.

Importance of CNA Insurance Program 

It is quite common for healthcare facilities to shut down. In such cases, just imagine if some patient has filed a case against you when you were employed with a healthcare facility that not longer exists. Then, the insurance policy provided by the employer will be void. Thus, it's always best to have a personal CNA insurance policy that can guard you in such difficult situations.

If you do not have any insurance policy in your name and a lawsuit is filed against you, it can get very difficult for you to handle the situation in terms of the money as well as its effect on your career. Hence, it will always prove to be advantageous to have a professional liability insurance to secure your professional liability and avoid any adverse effects on your medical career.

Factors Determining Insurance 

There are several factors that determine the CNA insurance. It varies from state to state. Insurance rates also depend on factors like the characteristics of CNAs, the region of CNA practice, the type of healthcare facility that the CNAs are working in, number of patients being take care of in a given period as well the risk management procedures followed, and so on.

CNA Malpractice Cases 

Due to negligence, CNAs may be found guilty of malpractice cases. Following are certain instances of malpractice cases by CNAs: 

• Delegation of tasks to others due to cost-containment can work against the CNAs. 
• Patients being discharged early even when not completely recovered.
• Downsizing of healthcare facilities leading to shortage of CNAs. 

As patients and their family members and in general the society has become quite aware about the guidelines and duties in the medical industry, it is the responsibility of CNAs to be more accountable for what they are doing or else filing a lawsuit against them will not be difficult. It's a good practice to have a CNA insurance that protects you against these kinds of lawsuits. Many insurance companies offer good CNA insurance programs and it's best that you avail these benefits before it gets too late.

Overview of CNA Bridge Programs

The CNA career is a stepping stone to advance in your career in the nursing field. Nursing professionals are in great demand in the health care industry. You can work as a nursing assistant while you are still undergoing the training and this is one of the major advantages of the nursing profession. Many nursing professionals choose to gain relevant experience by working at an entry level position as a Certified Nursing Assistant and then climb their way up the career ladder by pursuing higher education and grabbing bigger and better career opportunities. Here is an overview of CNA Bridge Programs.

CNA bridge programs are a recent and popular trend in the nursing industry. The CNA bridge programs are offered by many community schools and colleges. The normal CNA training program usually takes around 6 to 12 weeks for completion and it prepares the students for the next higher level of training. This course equips the candidates with all the necessary knowledge and required skills to become a CNA. Once the candidates finish their CNA training, they can opt for the CNA bridge programs to progress in their career.

Overview of CNA Bridge Programs

The CNA bridge programs are also at times referred to as accelerated CNA programs. These programs are for a shorter duration as compared to the regular CNA programs and aim at completing the training at a faster rate. There is a system of credit units of the base CNA program which can be transferred to the CNA bridge program that allows you to complete the graduation in a lesser span of time. There is a fixed educational curriculum for these CNA bridge programs. Some of the common CNA bridge programs offered in the United States are listed below.

CNA to LPN Bridge Programs 

CNAs who aspire to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) can opt for the CNA to LPN bridge program. One of the requirements for this program is that you need to hold a CNA license that is active and you also need to submit a proof of your employment record. You have to work for a certain number of hours while doing this program which you get paid for. The numbers of hours vary depending on the state.

The CNA to LPN bridge programs require another 6 months to one year for completion and may be conducted on a full time or part time basis. The time taken for completing the course depends on the framework of the CNA to LPN bridge program.

The charges or the fees for these programs usually range from $750 to $2500. On an average the tuition fees are around $2000. The fees include laboratory fees, health insurance as well as affiliation fee for partnering with a health care facility. Other expenses that you need to take care of include charges for books, uniforms and medical equipments.

The CNA to LPN bridge program may help you to lessen the time frame for completing the course by a semester. The usual program has around 3 semesters that spans for a period of 9 months to a year. The program consists of theoretical or class room training as well as practical or clinical skills training. You need to complete the necessary amount of hours for successful completion of the CNA to LPN bridge program. The program can be completed in a short span of time and also helps you save money and hence it is an option worth considering for all CNAs who aspire to work as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

CNA to RN Bridge Programs 

The CNA to RN bridge program are good for CNAs who aspire to work as a Registered Nurse (RN). Even these programs require you to hold an active CNA license. This program needs around 1 to 1 ½ years of extra study for successful completion. After completion of the CNA to RN bridge program, the candidates can register for a license examination for registered nurses with the NCLEX-RN.

The charges for the CNA to RN bridge program depend on the community school or college that you have enrolled in and also on the kind of program coursework. The tuition fees are usually around $3000 on an annual basis for community colleges. Private schools tend to charge higher for the program and it can amount to $10,0000 every year. There is also a testing fee charged for NCLEX-RN which is around $200 – $300 based on the state.

The CNA to RN bridge program lasts for two years. However, if you have completed the LPN program, then you can finish the CNA to RN bridge program within a year or so. This time frame does not include the time period required for applying, preparing, as well as registering for the NCLEX-RN. This may require additional 3 to 6 months. Just like the CNA to LPN bridge program, even the CNA to RN bridge program may be conducted on a full time or part time basis. The program can also be completed online.

Besides the CNA to LPN and CNA to RN bridge program, there are a variety of other CNA bridge programs available such as CNA to LVN or CNA to BSN or CNA to MSN bridge programs. The CNA bridge programs offer a good facility for working professionals who are pressed for time to study while working. The CNA bridge programs help you in saving your time as well as costs while advancing your nursing career.

Local CNA Training

Choosing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant is a great way to start your career in the medical or health care field. You can pursue local CNA training for achieving your goal of becoming a CNA. You need to be really passionate about the medical career and be willing to serve the patients in hospitals and clinics who need care and support. You need to be compassionate by nature and provide full support to the ailing patients. The job as a CNA is very challenging, but at the same time very rewarding. CNAs most of the times come in direct contact with the patients and serve as an important link between the patients and the senior nurses and doctors.

Requirements for local CNA training 

There are certain mandatory requirements that you need to fulfill before enrolling for the local CNA training. You need to hold a high school diploma or GED for enrollment. You also need to be minimum 18 years of age to enroll for the local CNA training. However, there are certain exceptions to these rules. For instance, in California the minimum age requirement for enrolling for the local CNA training is 15 years and to work as a nursing aide it is 16 years.

Before you appear for the CNA examination, you need to complete 75 hours of CNA training. The local CNA training comprises of theoretical as well as practical sessions. You will be taught important nursing aspects such a basic anatomy and physiology, body mechanics, disease and infection control among other topics in the classroom sessions. The practical training will focus on the on-the-job skills such as helping the patients do their day-to-day tasks, moving the patients, measuring and recording the patients' vitals and so on.

How do you find local centers for CNA Training?

There are various ways of find local CNA training centers. For individuals living in metros, it will be much easier to hunt for the local CNA training centers. You can begin you search with the local community schools and colleges. Majority of the local community schools and colleges offer local CNA training.

You can also consider paying a visit to the local hospitals. The hospitals offer local CNA training and they may also provide for paying a certain amount of course fees if you are willing to sign a contract with them to work with the hospitals after completing your local CNA training. This gives you double benefit as you land up saving money and also don't need to look out for a job after finishing your training.

There are certain hospitals, clinics and nursing homes that offer local CNA training free of charge. You can ask your friends and family members if they know about these kinds of hospitals and nursing homes in your locality. If there are no such hospitals, clinics or nursing homes in your locality, you can always carry out a search in other localities which are nearby.

The local Public Health Departments can help you out in your search for local CNA training. You can get a proper list of health care institutes that offer local CNA training. You can refer to the internet for some help. There are many advertisements posted on the internet for local CNA training which you can refer to.

The local CNA training program usually is for a period of 3 months. However, based on the regulations and guidelines of different states, the duration may vary. You need to get these details from the local CNA centers.

You need to check if the local CNA training program is an accredited one, and is approved by the state nursing board. If the course is not approved, you cannot appear for the CNA certification exam. Once you complete the local CNA training and clear the CNA examination, you can become a member of the State Nurse Aide Registry.

Getting Grants 

You need to fulfill all the requirements to enroll for the CNA local training and hunt for such centers providing the training in your locality. Once you are successful in doing this, you can find out about various forms of grants and scholarships that are offered by the government as well as by non-governmental agencies for course completion.

There are hospitals and other health care facilities that provide for the training costs as long as you are willing to sign a contact with them to work with them after completing the local CNA training.

The government also offers grants to candidates for local CNA training at community schools and colleges. Here, you will not be bound with any kind of contract. There are certain eligibility criteria for availing these grants. If you fit in the eligibility bracket, the entire local CNA training can be funded by the government.

It is quite possible that you are unable to find local community schools and colleges that offer the CNA training. In these cases, you cannot avail the facility of grants from the government. However, you can still pursue the CNA training online that gives you the flexibility of studying as per you convenience.

How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA

The career of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a rewarding one and acts as a stepping stone to become a nurse. In order to become a CNA, you need to appear for the CNA examination and obtain the CNA certification. The CNA program is for a short duration and usually lasts for 6 to 12 weeks. Once you complete the program and get the CNA certification, you can start your practice as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

The duration of the CNA programs is not the same everywhere and tends to vary according to the type of training that you opt for. Some CNA programs may be for a longer duration as compared to others. You need to hold a high school diploma in order to enroll for the CNA course. In the CNA training, you will be taught the theoretical as well as practical skills required to become a CNA. The CNA training will cover a wide range of topics such as basic anatomy and physiology, body mechanics, disease and infection control and many others. Depending upon the training hours per day, the CNA program can extend from a couple of weeks to months or may be even years.

The CNAs are responsible to carry out the basic duties and assist senior nurses as well as doctors. While on the job, CNAs can develop their clinical skills and decide whether they want to stick to their current job or pursue higher education for better career opportunities. You may also get familiar with the environment in the hospitals, clinics or other health-care settings. You will be dealing with the patients on a daily basis and will have to face several challenges while on duty. This will build your confidence to work in the nursing profession.

The CNA job demands great patience. You have to keep up with the day-to-day challenges and ensure that you stay calm while handling stressful situations. You need to gain sufficient amount of experience to become good at your job as a CNA and this may take quite some time before you think of skipping to another high-rank job. You need to be strong-willed and show a lot of devotion and passion towards your work.

The CNA training programs will equip you with all the theoretical and fundamental knowledge of the nursing profession. In order to understand how long it takes to become a CNA, following are the details on the outline of the CNA program and the duration of each section:

1. Theoretical Training: The CNA program is divided into two main sections – the theory and practical sections. The theoretical training equips you with the information on all the theories of nursing. Subjects like nursing fundamentals and terminologies, diet and nutrition, disease and infection control, basic anatomy and physiology of the human body are all covered in the theory section. Usually, the theoretical sessions are classroom-based and the time allotted for the them is around 60 hours.

2. Practical Training: The time allotted for the practical or clinical training sessions is around 16 hours. The CNAs are usually required to do the practical duties 8 hours a day. CNAs are trained on different set of clinical skills such as helping the patients do their daily tasks like bathing, brushing teeth, combing hair, feeding and dressing. They also need to move the patients from the wheel chair to the bed and vice versa. CNAs also need to ensure that they maintain cleanliness and hygiene. CNAs are also trained on measuring and recording the patients vitals such as blood pressure and heart rate. The clinical skills training forms a very important part of the CNA training program.

3. Accelerated Programs for CNA: If you are pressed for time and cannot attend the regular CNA programs, you can opt for accelerated CNA programs. The accelerated CNA programs are offered by few selected medical institutes and health-care facilities. The program is conducted on a fast-track basis and you can thus manage your time schedule accordingly. However, you need to be sincere enough while enrolling for the accelerated CNA programs, to make sure you complete all the course requirements well within the deadlines.

4. CNA Online Training Programs: There are also online CNA training programs available. All the theory sessions are covered via the internet medium. The drawback of online CNA programs is that it does not cover the practical sessions. The duration for these online programs is more or less similar to the traditional CNA courses and may range from 6 to 12 weeks.

Thus, we see that the CNA training program can be completed within a period of 6 to 12 weeks on an average. You can opt for the full time course or the part time course or go in for the online course. 60 hours of theoretical training and 16 hours of clinical skills training is mandatory for all the CNA training programs.

Facts about CNA Shortage

Shift in employment trends, wages that are induced by recession as well as a cut down in employment benefits are some of the reasons why there is a shortage of healthcare or medical professionals on a global level. There is a great demand for CNAs, but unfortunately there is a shortage in supply. Here are some facts about CNA shortage.

CNAs are responsible for taking care of the sick patients in hospitals, clinics, rehab facilities as well as in other healthcare settings. They have to help the patients do their daily tasks such as feeding, bathing, dressing and moving them. They can also administer basic medicines. CNAs need to be passionate towards the work that they do and be willing to provide all the required care and support to the patients. These professionals are very crucial in the healthcare industry but sadly there is CNA shortage.

Facts about CNA Shortage 

There are various healthcare professionals who are from various other countries. Certain reports reveal the fact about CNA shortage stating that this shortage will be more in the near future as the aging population increases and the younger ones get busier with their routine having no time for the elderly people. The number of patients in on the rise, but the healthcare professionals are not enough to take care of all these patients. There is great CNA shortage in nursing homes as well as in hospitals across many regions.

The job posts for CNAs remain vacant despite many CNAs complete their certifications from the graduate schools. There are many candidates who get trained for the nursing profession but do not wish to continue working in the same field. Many candidates enroll for the CNA programs but not all of them start their practice in hospitals and clinics as CNAs.

CNAs may get trained in the CNA schools but it is not necessary that all of them satisfy the criteria to get the desired job. The CNAs need to develop all the essential clinical skills to secure a good healthcare job. Many hospitals and clinics have specific job requirements that may not be met by all the CNAs.

Solving CNA Shortage Problems 

There is a great need to solve the CNA shortage problem. There is a great disparity between the demand and supply of healthcare professionals which needs to be taken care of. Various healthcare institutes as well as other employers are taking necessary steps to ensure that more and more individuals enroll for CNA programs and become CNAs. Some other ways of solving the CNA shortage problem are as follows:

Better compensation: Rise in the wages and provision of additional and attractive employment benefits is a great way to attract CNAs. The job of CNAs is not easy and takes a lot of hard work. Employers need to ensure that all these efforts by the CNAs are well compensated and that they get a lot of good employment benefits. This ensures that the CNAs will be happy and work and will continue working.

Better training options: The CNA training and certification is an important aspect to ensure that the CNAs have a stable career ahead of them in the nursing field. The training should be conducted in a manner that it equips the CNAs with all the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skill set to meet the job demands of the healthcare industry. The CNA training programs should be easily accessible to the candidates and should encourage the candidates to opt in for the CNA career.

CNA shortage can thus be solved in a way by raising wage rates and employment benefits. There is also a need to ensure that the candidates get quality education and helps them fulfill the demands of the job.

What does CNA shortage mean for you 

There is CNA shortage across all the regions of the world and especially in the rural regions. Big cities or metros as well as rural areas are experiencing shortage of CNAs. There are many reasons for this shortage, and one of them is, CNAs don't get paid very well. You will find many situations wherein the nursing aides go on a strike to demand higher wages.

CNA shortage will help you in filling a niche and getting a job. You can check in hospitals, clinics, rehab facilities and other healthcare settings which require CNAs but there are not enough qualified CNAs whom they can hire. You can take advantage of this situation and send in your job application to such healthcare facilities. Even if there is no shortage of CNAs in certain nursing homes or healthcare facilities, you can always hope that they will need more CNAs sooner or later, and you can always volunteer for a suitable position as and when the need arises in these healthcare facilities.

Landing a healthcare job becomes easy when there is shortage of healthcare professionals. However, you need to check if you possess all the knowledge and skills required to get hired for the CNA job. You can always get more details on employment opportunities from the health department of your state and grab suitable job opportunities.

CNA Paid Training Programs

In order to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, you need to undergo a state approved CNA training of 75 hours. During this training, the CNAs are supervised by senior nurses and they are paid on a minimum basis. The CNA paid training programs are offered by hospitals, clinics and other healthcare facilities as well as employers. After completion of the CNA training and clearing the certification examination, the employers require the CNAs to work with them for a certain period of time.

It is possible for CNAs to get paid while they are still undergoing the training. Majority of the medical and healthcare facilities now offer CNA paid training programs that helps the CNAs to earn while learning. This is a great provision especially for those CNAs who cannot afford to earn while being trained. Candidates in a difficult financial situation can also enroll for these CNA paid training programs and avail the benefits.

When you enroll for the CNA paid training programs, make sure that the training is up to the required standards. The quality of the training is the most important consideration than the amount of money being paid to you. The candidates need to carry out a proper research about the details of the institute that they are enrolling into and ensure that the training provided is up to the mark. The candidates also need to check the guidelines as well as the set of rules and regulations of such institutes and make sure they abide by the same.

While doing the CNA paid training programs, it is important that the CNAs focus on the training and on getting the maximum benefit out of the same. Money is important, but the knowledge and skills taught during the training are more important and deserve more attention. CNAs should bank on this opportunity of being paid while training and give in their best to the training program. The candidates can gain all the necessary experience they require for succeeding in the nursing profession during the CNA paid training programs.

CNA Paid Training Programs are offered in the following health care facilities and institutes:

Hospitals 

There are certain government as well as private hospitals which offer paid CNA training programs. The method of training followed in case of hospitals is classroom training. When being trained in hospitals, CNAs get the opportunity to become familiar with the hospital environment and build their skills in handling the patients. CNAs can spend time with the patients and help them in their daily tasks as well as learn how to handle the medical equipment and instruments. CNAs also learn how to measure and record the patients' vitals and many other skills that will help them in their nursing career.

Home Health Aide Agencies 

In case of home health aide agencies, the instructors are other CNAs who are certified professionals. The training is carried out at the home of the patients. Certified Nursing Assistants train the candidates on performing various kinds of medical procedures. They also teach the candidates some important aspects related to nursing and the medical field such as basic anatomy and physiology, diet and nutrition basics, body mechanics, disease and infection control, patients' rights, basic ethics and so on.

Nursing Facility 

In case of a nursing facility, the training is conducted either by a Certified Nursing Assistants or senior nurses. The paid CNA training program conducted in a nursing facility focuses more on how to handle multiple patients simultaneously. While working in a nursing facility, CNAs often have to handle around 6 to 12 patients at the same time. Thus the focus is more on time management and organizing skills so that the candidates can do their duties in a timely manner.

Red Cross Training 

The Red Cross also offers CNA paid training programs. In order to enroll for the Red Cross CNA training, you need to be minimum 18 years of age. You should also be medically fit so that you can take care of your responsibilities as a CNA. There also may be certain eligibility requirements or competency needs to enroll for these programs which you need to find about.

Thus, candidates can benefit from the CNA paid training programs and earn while learning. One of the greatest advantage of these paid programs is that even after you complete the course and clear the certification examination, you will be employed by the employer who paid for your training. The CNAs require to work with the employers for a certain period of time after which they can start hunting for better opportunities. Hence, you need to start your job search post training. This saves you time and money as there is no need to hunt for a job after completion of the CNA training and certification. The CNA paid training programs are a great way to enhance your clinical skills and gain the necessary experience to make a successful career in the nursing field.

Job Duties of a CNA in Hospital

The job of CNAs is a challenging one and the patients as well and senior nurses and doctors depend on the CNAs. CNAs tend to spend a lot of time with the patients in the hospital, and they come in direct contact with them on a regular basis. Many a times, CNAs serve as an important link between the patients and the senior nurses and doctors. The job duties of a CNA in a hospital include taking care of adult and elderly patients or even small children. CNAs need to provide constant care and support to the patients who are suffering from various kinds of diseases and help them in the process of recovery.

CNAs working in hospitals are usually allotted a specific unit to work where they will tend to spend most of their time. CNAs may also be requested to replace their coworker in conditions where the CNA is well aware of the job duties and responsibilities on that specific floor of the hospital. CNAs may be assigned duties to be performed in emergency rooms or in intensive care units. They may also be required to work in medical-surgical hospital units. The tasks that are to be performed may get hectic at times but the CNAs need to deal with the situation in a proper manner. The CNAs may also work on a rotation basis on different floors so as to get familiarized with the different types of settings.

There are various hospital departments assigned to CNAs. Emergency units and intensive care units are examples of hospital departments where the CNAs may work. CNAs can also work in other hospital departments where the patients' conditions are not very critical. The patients in these hospital departments may only be admitted in the hospital due to a fracture or some kind of bacterial infection or other minor diseases. In such cases, the duties of the CNAs will be restricted to providing basic care to these patients.

CNAs work under the guidance and supervision of Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN). A proper customized health care plan is made for individual patients and the CNAs need to follow that. The individualized plan provides all the details about the patient such as the cause for admission to the hospital, frequency of measuring and recording the patient's vitals, and any other care and assistance that the patient may require. All this information regarding the care that is provided to the patient needs to be carefully documented and presented to the senior nurse or the doctor. Based on this important information, the doctor can decide on the further course of action as regards the patient's treatment so that they can get well soon.

CNAs may also work in labor units or postpartum floors. They need to provide support to the female patients and take good care of them after they deliver the baby. In case the CNAs are working in intensive care units, they need to help the Registered Nurses (RNs) with the necessary medical procedures for treating the patients who are in a critical condition. The patients may be of different age groups ranging from small children to elderly persons. In the intensive care units, the patients are on ventilators as well as heart and oxygen monitors. The CNAs need to ensure that they provide all the necessary care to these patients who are acutely ill.

CNAs are given details about the room number of the patients they have to take care of. They are also told about the senior Registered Nurse (RN) whom they have to report to. The CNAs are usually on rounds in a hospital setting and they need to submit the patient's report at the end of their round to the next nurse aide on duty. This gives direction to the nursing aide for better care of the patients. The CNAs also need to check if there are any special needs of the patients.

In case of a hospital setting, the patients are immediately discharged once their health condition becomes stable. This is not true for long term care centers. CNAs in hospital settings are usually responsible for duties like measuring and recording the patients' vitals, answering call bells, helping the patients do their daily tasks like feeding, bathing, dressing, moving the patients and so on. CNAs also need to maintain hygiene while on duty to avoid spreading of infection. The patients are highly dependent on the CNAs for their day-to-day tasks. CNAs in hospitals also need to give emotional support to the patients to help them recover at a faster rate.

CNAs also need to help and assist the patients while they are getting discharged. CNAs help the patients gather all their belongings. The patient is provided a wheelchair during discharge, if needed. CNAs also help the patients with the necessary paperwork during their discharge. CNAs in hospitals should take care of the patients, right from the time they are admitted till they successfully recover and are discharged.

How to Transfer CNA License

Once the candidates complete the CNA training and certification process, they are eligible to start their practice as a Certified Nursing Assistant. However, because of recession, the CNAs may not find a suitable job in the state from which they have completed the CNA training. Every state has different requirements as regards the certification and license procedures. You need a local license of the state to practice there as a CNA in the hospitals and clinics. This makes it necessary for you to transfer the CNA license from your state to the state in which you will be working in. The process of transfer of the CNA license may take quite some time, but it is absolutely essential to do so if you want to start working as a CNA in that state.

The reciprocity process or the process of certification transfer is extremely important for CNAs. In simple terms, the process of transfer of the CNA license and/or certification from one state to another is known as reciprocity. For example, you have completed your CNA training and certification from Texas but are going to relocate to California. Then, in this case you would need to transfer your CNA license from Texas to California.

You need to apply for reciprocity anytime when you change the state you are presently in, for the purpose of working in another state. You then need to transfer your CNA license and certification to the new state.

During the reciprocity process, the new state verifies all the credentials of the Certified Nursing Assistant (including the training and exam details). It then registers the name of the CNA on the nurse aide registry. Once your name gets registered, you can start your practice as a CNA in the new state. As per the federal as well as the state laws, only CNAs who hold the certification of that state can continue working in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes and other healthcare facilities.

Steps to request reciprocity 

• You can put in a request to the State Nurse Aide Registry and apply for reciprocity. You can get the form for "Application for Enrollment by Reciprocity". You then need to fill up the form and submit it either to your state or the state that you are going to relocate to. You may need to provide your mailing address as well as email address to the registry so that they can mail you the application.
• You can then call the registry of the other state and ask them if you need to mail them the "Application for Enrollment by Reciprocity" form. Certain states wish to obtain this form from the Nurse Aide Registry of the state while others can accept if you directly mail it to them. Make sure you confirm the details and do not make any assumptions in this regard. Also, remember to note the names and contact details of whoever you communicate with in case you require them at a later stage.
• The Nurse Aide Registry may at times allow you to mail or fax them the application for reciprocity. If it is so, then mail or fax the application and other relevant details immediately without wasting any time. Confirm that the fax numbers and the mailing address are right before sending the application. You also need to mail them the new CNA card. Also remember to thank the person with whom you have been communicating and who has helped with the details of the reciprocity procedure. 

Documents required to apply for reciprocity 

• The social security number details 
• Your drivers license 
• Current CNA state approval 
• Salary details for your proof of work as a CNA 

There are certain states that have the necessary reciprocity arrangements with each other. In such cases, you are not required to give the exam again in the new state. When you apply for reciprocity, your CNA license will undergo the same procedure as that for renewal. You will need to submit the educational proofs as well as medical and background check proofs along with your social security and employment details. The FBI background check takes quite some time to be completed. It may take anywhere between 4 to 8 weeks for this check to be completed.

These reciprocity arrangements are not present in all states. So, if the states do not have any such reciprocity arrangements, you will have to appear for the CNA exam again to obtain the license for working in the new state. This may become a tedious process for you; but it is mandatory to obtain the license.

Some states also allow you to continue working while your license is being checked for. There is also a facility to work in both the states in shifts of one hour but you cannot extend it beyond three hours. You need to check the state requirements and comply with the same.

CNA Scholarships and Grants

CNA is a stepping stone for advancing your career in the nursing profession. Candidates who aspire to become CNAs need to take the CNA classes. There are also various types of can scholarships and grants available.

In order to enroll for the CNA classes, you need to hold a high school diploma or GED. A first-aid program certification will also be helpful while enrolling for the CNA classes. The CNA program generally lasts for 3 months. There are 2 main sections covered in the CNA program – the theoretical section and practical or clinical section. Once you complete the CNA training, you can give the exam and obtain the certification to start practicing as a Certified Nursing Assistant. The fee structure for the CNA classes is an important consideration for the candidates.

The fees structure for the CNA classes depends upon the state where you are pursuing the course. Most of the times, the fees are reasonable and can be easily afforded by the candidates. However, there may be cases where the candidates are not in a position to pay for the fees. This may be due to low income in the family or if you are belonging to minority groups. In such cases, the candidates need to look for options where they can enroll for the CNA classes at a cheaper rate or may be for free of charge.

Governmental as well as non-governmental institutes or agencies do offer financial aid for candidates aspiring to become CNAs. There are various types of CNA scholarships and grants available. Scholarship programs are also offered by the Red Cross CNA Training. However, you need to check for the eligibility criteria to avail this scholarship.

The CNA training is for a shorter duration as compared to other health care or medical programs. You need to consider the funding options available before enrolling for the training program.

Following are some ways of obtaining financial aid for the CNA training classes:

Scholarships 

Scholarships are a good way of funding your studies. One advantage of scholarships is that you do not need to repay anything later. There are various types of scholarships available such as book allowances, allowances for uniform, certain stipends, partial as well as full scholarship awards.

The scholarships require certain eligibility criteria to be granted, and are awarded based on academic performance and merit, community contributions as well as consideration of the financial condition of the applicant. These scholarships for CNA classes can be granted by the government, nursing school, private individuals, hospitals and other health care facilities.

There exists a GPA/credit requirement for majority of the CNA scholarships. The candidates need to ensure that they maintain this requirement to continue availing the scholarship benefits.

Grants 

Money can be presented to candidates in the form of grants by considering the applicant's financial condition, his needs as well the proposal for financial aid. Just like in scholarships, there is no need to repay the money in grants. Grants may be given to fund academic projects, education requirements or other relevant endeavors.

The type of grants varies as per the need and the candidates need to present a proposal to the concerned donor according to the type of grant required. Once the candidates receive money from the donor in the form of grant, it becomes totally theirs. If you have applied for a grant for research based or project based studies, you may need to update the benefactor with the status of that particular project. Generally the grants for CNA classes are given by the government's education department; however, certain private institutes also offer these kinds of grants.

Student Loans 

If you are not lucky enough to qualify for CNA scholarships and grants, you can always consider opting for student loans. All the candidates who enroll for the CNA training cannot get the benefit of CNA scholarships and grants.

Private Banks, the government, as well as CNA training schools provide student loans. However, after you finish the training, you need to make repayment of these student loans along with the specified rate of interest. It's best to clear the loan repayment on time to avoid any kind of penalties. Student loans usually charge lesser interest as compared to the private loans.

Employer-Financed Training 

There are certain health care facilities as well as companies that have tie ups with the CNA training schools. These facilities allow the employees to continue their studies while they are working. These employers take care of the cost of the training program in exchange of a service contract from the employees. You have to serve the contact period and cannot quit your job before the term ends.

The CNA profession is in great demand even on a global level. The rising aging population as well as the increasing health care needs of different individuals open a lot of career avenues for CNAs in various health care facilities. However, the CNA training costs are a huge concern especially for the under privileged lot who cannot afford the fees. Hence, the above mentioned financial aid options are worth a consideration for such candidates.

Pros and Cons of Being a CNA

Many individuals who want to pursue a career in the medical or nursing field opt to go in for the Certified Nursing Assistant programs. CNA is a rewarding career, but it is also very challenging. There are several pros and cons of being a CNA, which you need to know before taking the leap into the CNA profession.

Many a times, CNAs are the first point of contact between the patients and the other staff of the health care facility. The CNAs usually work under the guidance and supervision of senior nurses, usually the Registered Nurses (RNs). They need to take care of the patients and monitor their health condition on a regular basis and report the same to the senior nurses and doctors.

The CNAs are responsible to help the patients do their day-to-day tasks such as bathing, combing hair, dressing and feeding. The CNAs also need to measure and record the vitals of the patients such as their blood sugar levels, body temperature, heart rate and so on. They need to move the patients from the wheelchair to the bed and vice versa. The CNAs also need to provide mental and emotional support to the patients so that they can handle their situation in a better manner and recover fast.

Pros of being a CNA 

1. Most of the time, CNAs look at their career as a stepping stone for further career advancement options. CNAs can pursue higher education; gain the necessary experience to qualify as a Registered Nurse (RN) or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). There are several career opportunities present for a CNA.

The experience gained in the CNA profession helps in your further education. You gain the necessary theoretical as well as practical knowledge required in the nursing field. Many a times, if the CNAs are performing really well, then the hospitals, where they are working, provide financial support for their further education.

2. Another advantage of being a CNA is that the eligibility criterion to become a Certified Nursing Assistant is quite simple. You simply need to hold a high school diploma or GED or be a graduate in any stream. The CNA training programs are offered by several community colleges, universities as well as by many healthcare organizations and you can complete these courses after the college semester.

The CNA training programs cover a vast range of topics like basic anatomy as well as physiology, medical and nursing terminologies, basic procedures related to controlling infectious diseases as well as diet and nutrition subjects. Once you clear the CNA exam, you will obtain the certificate for CNA and then you can register with NAHC (National Association for Home Care) to start practicing as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

3. CNAs also earn handsome pay packages. CNAs earn anywhere between $23,000 and $30,000 as annual income, just when they start their career. With experience and personal growth, the salaries can also rise higher.

There is also a high demand for CNAs in various hospitals, clinics, adult and baby healthcare facilities, nursing homes as well as assisted living facilities. The healthcare industry is a growing industry providing great opportunities for CNAs to build a successful career. The employment outlook for CNAs also remains bright in the coming years.

4. Once you complete the CNA training programs, whether by way of attending regular classes or through online study, you become aware of the duties and responsibilities in this noble profession. You become familiar with the technical skills required in this profession. There is also the option available for CNAs to specialize in a particular subject for in-depth understanding and for gaining expertise in that particular field of study.

5. Your duties as a CNA can help you serve the patients and take good care of them. Hence, you are involved in a kind of social service that will bring you happiness, contentment and pride. Your career as a CNA helps you develop, both professionally and personally.

Cons of being a CNA

1. The tasks of a CNA are not only quite difficult but also at time very unpleasant. They need to handle bodily fluids, bedpans and other belongings of the patients which may not be very pleasant. They have to change the linen, bathe the patients in the bathroom or at times in the bed and change the catheter bags. The CNAs also have to change the soiled sheets as well as clothing and clean up the urine, vomit as well as feces.

2. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average wage of a CNA stands at $11.46 per hour (as in 2008). However, this wage for a CNA working in a home health care is only $9.46 per hour. These wages are much lower than the wages earned by customer service representatives who don’t even need to obtain any kind of certification.

3. The CNAs need to be with the patients most of the time. When patients are seriously ill, the CNAs may also have to stay up the entire night or work on weekends and holidays to be by their side. The CNAs need to work in different shifts and it may be quite taxing.

4. CNAs need to sometimes lift the patients while moving them. Back injuries are quite common in this kind of a career. The CNAs need to be physically fit or else they will experience pain while doing their tasks.

5. Other than being physically strong, the CNA career also demands a lot of emotional and mental stability. At times, the patients get violent and display inappropriate behavior. In such cases, the CNAs need to be at their professional best and handle these situations in a calm and composed manner which may not be really easy.

As in any profession, the career of a CNA also has its own pros and cons. But if you are ready to handle the difficult situations and are willing to give in your best for the medical and nursing profession, you should not think twice of becoming a CNA.

On-the-Job CNA Training

On-the-Job CNA Training is an important aspect of the course curriculum of the CNA training. In this training, the CNAs get trained on practical professional skills under the supervision and guidance of senior nurses. In order to appear for the CNA certification exam, the CNA candidates need to complete the required number of on-the-job training hours as per the state requirements.

As a CNA, you will be responsible to take care of the patients in the hospitals, clinics and other health care facilities. You will come in direct contact with the patients in most of the health care settings. As a CNA, you serve as an important link between the patients and the Registered Nurses (RNs) as well as the doctors. You need to be well aware of your duties and responsibilities as a Certified Nursing Assistant in order to be able to do your job up to the mark.

You can find out about the on-the-job CNA training courses in various colleges and universities, which offer such training. You can also refer to the Internet advertisements to find out about on-the-job CNA training programs.

Majority of the CNA training programs that are offered in community colleges will have an on-the-job training facility. The college will have a link up with hospitals, clinics, nursing homes or other health care facilities where you can develop practical clinical skills. Even if you get trained on the practical skills in these health care settings, it does not imply that you will be employed there at a later stage after completing the training and clearing your CNA exam. Besides, the on-the-job training does not entail any kind of payment. The on-the-job CNA training is only part of the course which you have enrolled and paid the fees for.

There are many advertisements for on-the-job CNA training programs present on the Internet. These programs allow you the option of working while you are still learning. However, the payment that you will receive in such cases will be lower compared to a full-fledged CNA. After you complete the on-the-job training, you are generally required to continue your employment in the same health care setting once you obtain the CNA certification. You will be trained on different kind of clinical skills such as maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, helping the patients with their daily tasks like bathing, feeding and dressing as well as moving, recording the patients' vitals like blood pressure and heart rate, changing linens, cleaning the bed pans and so on. You will be monitored and evaluated during the on-the-job CNA training by Registered Nurses (RNs) to test your abilities as a CNA.

How to find out about On-the-Job CNA Training? 

There are several CNA colleges and universities that offer the on-the-job CNA training. You can enroll in these schools and universities wherein the on-the-job CNA training is included in the course curriculum. These colleges and universities usually have a tie-up with nursing homes, hospitals and clinics where you can get trained on your clinical skills.

If you fail to find such colleges or universities, then you can take help of the Internet. There are several ads posted on the Internet for on-the-job CNA training programs. You need to check for the eligibility criteria before enrolling for these programs and ensure that you fulfill them. You also need to undergo medical and background verification tests before you can apply for these on-the-job CNA training programs.

Training Hours 

The training hours for the on-the-job CNA program differ according to the state. As per the federal laws, the candidates are required to complete a certain number of training hours before getting certified as a CNA. The medical or health care facilities of different states have the right to decide on the hours of training for the CNA program. Generally, a minimum of 75 hours of training is required to be completed to obtain the CNA certification.

Duties 

The duties that CNAs perform in the on-the-job training depend on the kind of patients they are taking care of as well as the type of health care setting they are working in. Some of the common duties of CNAs include helping the patients do their day-to-day duties like bathing, feeding and dressing. CNAs also have to measure and record the patients' vitals such as blood pressure, body temperature and heart rate. CNAs also need to change linens, clean the bed pans and keep the patients' rooms clean and tidy.

The CNAs also need to help the doctors by preparing the patients for surgery. They may have to deal with a variety of medical equipment and instruments while doing the medical procedures. They may also have to provide mental and emotional support to the ailing patients.

Paid Training Programs 

Usually the on-the-job CNA training programs do not entail any payment to the candidates. However, there are advertisements for paid on-the-job CNA training programs on the Internet. Here, the candidates can work while pursuing the training course. However, the salaries paid are quite low. Nevertheless, once these candidates get the CNA certification, they can continue to work in the same health care set up with much better salaries.

Hospitals Offering CNA Training

CNAs are in great demand in hospitals, clinics and other health care facilities. There are many individuals who desire to become a CNA and are looking for various means by which they can obtain this designation. If you wish to become a CNA, then it is mandatory for you to go through the CNA training and obtain the CNA certification from the State Board of Nursing of your state.

The CNA training is offered by various nursing schools as well as community colleges. Even hospitals offer the CNA training program. In order to find out which are the hospitals that offer the CNA training, you will have to carry out some research and do some home work.

Following are the ways in which you can find out about hospitals offering CNA training: 

• You can pay a visit to the State Board of Nursing and get a list of hospitals offering the CNA training. The Board has all the required information and they can provide you the details. Once you have the list of hospitals, you can make calls and confirm if they conduct CNA training.
  
  Contacting the State Board of Nursing is one of the best options to get the names of the hospitals, as they would be carrying the information about the hospitals whose training programs have been approved by them. This is extremely important as it proves that the training programs are authentic and recognized by various health-care facilities.
• The telephone directory will also be helpful for to you in finding out the contact details of the various health-care facilities from where you wish to obtain the CNA training. You can always make a call and confirm about the CNA coaching. In case if these health care facilities say that they do not provide CNA training, they will at least have information about other hospitals that offer CNA training.
• If you are knowing any nurses or Certified Nursing Assistants personally, you can always get in touch with them. They will definitely be able to offer some help regarding the hospitals that offer CNA training or at least give you the details about the sources of information.
  
  Not only nurses, but any individual who works in the hospital or is from a medical background can offer you help with regards to finding hospitals offering CNA training. They may not be able to provide accurate information, but at least you will get some hint from them in this regard. If your friend works in a hospital, then it becomes all the more easy for you to get the CNA training form that hospital.
• Your parents, other family members as well as close friends can guide you in finding hospitals that offer the CNA training. They may be having some useful contacts or may be knowing someone who is a Certified Nursing Assistant.
• Local community colleges, either in your area or in the neighborhood, may also be of some help. Certain community colleges are bonded legally with various hospitals. Hence, it will prove to be beneficial to you if you consult these community colleges to find out about the hospitals that offer CNA training.
• Media is another important source of getting relevant information. You can refer to the daily newspaper to find the information that you are looking for. There are several advertisements on such CNA training classes in the newspapers. Generally, when hospitals have a requirement for CNAs and are hiring, they post advertisements in the newspapers. You can refer to these advertisements and grab a suitable opportunity.
  
  Internet is another good medium that can offer you information on hospitals offering CNA training. However, make sure that the source of information on the Internet is reliable. 

There are certain hospitals that offer the CNA training free of cost. However, these hospitals expect the candidates to work there for a certain duration. It is similar to signing a bond and serving the health-care facility until the bond period ends. This training will enable you to equip yourself with all the skills required to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. The examination fees are also included in the free CNA training. Many a times, these hospitals themselves pay for the CNA certification as long as the candidates agree to sign the contract.

The advantage of completing the CNA course or training from a hospital is that once you are done with the training, you do not need to really hunt for a job. Once you complete the CNA training and certification in a hospital, the hospital will have a good job offer for you in place. You can always gain experience, and then move on to a higher salary in the same hospital or look out for better and bigger job opportunities elsewhere.

Another advantage of going for the CNA training course in a hospital is the atmosphere . The teaching staff as well as the doctors are highly experienced and skilled professionals who can guide you on the right track towards becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant. The patients admitted in the hospital suffer from various diseases, and this will help you get familiar with handling the patients and help you in the future. When you are in the hospital, you tend to adjust with the environment and this will make you feel at ease when you actually start your work as a CNA.

Thus, studying the CNA courses in hospitals has many advantages. You get familiar with the environment while getting equipped with the necessary skills to become a CNA. Hospitals offering CNA training are thus a good option for individuals aspiring to become CNAs.

Guidelines for Improving CNA Clinical Skills

Choosing a career as a CNA can be a good and rewarding career move. Majority of individuals begin their career in the nursing field by working as a CNA. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the career opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants is rising and it will continue to rise. According to BLS, it has been predicted that there will be a 35% rise in jobs for CNAs by 2017, while the supply of CNAs will be less comparatively. Hence, there's a scope for the salaries of CNAs also to rise due to shortage of supply.

In order to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, you need to clear the CNA certification exam. The exam consists of 2 sections – one is the theoretical section while the other is the practical section. The theoretical section consists of several multiple choice questions, while the practical section tests your clinical skills. 

It is important to remember while enrolling for the CNA program that the training program needs to be accredited by the state's health department. You need to obtain the program verification document that needs to be submitted while applying for the CNA certification exam. If you do not possess the verification document, you will be disqualified from the exam. The accredited CNA program consists of a minimum of 75 hours, out of which 24 hours are for the practical or clinical training. The clinical training ensures that you develop all the necessary clinical skills to pass the CNA clinical skills exam.

Guidelines to improve your CNA Clinical Skills and clear the Skills Test 

• The CNA clinical skills test is usually supervised by a Registered Nurse or any other qualified examiner. During the test, you need to pay attention to the instructions given to you and perform the medical procedures that test your clinical skills. In case you fail to listen to the instructions, clarify your doubts by asking the examiner again. Do not do any tasks without getting the proper instructions, as you will not utilize your clinical skills properly and do the task with precision.
• Make sure that before and after doing any task, you wash your hands properly. The examiner will also evaluate you on the basis of your hand washing technique to see that you clean your hands properly. You need to follow a proper procedure for washing your hands – wet your hands at least for 20 seconds and then apply the hand wash or the medicated soap. Clean your fingers as well as wrists properly. Then, you can turn off the tap with the help of a paper towel. Then throw away the paper towel and dry your hands with another towel.
• Make sure that before performing any duty, you introduce yourself in a very polite way to the patient. Also, ask the patient for his/her name and address them correctly every time in a polite manner before starting your task.
• Make sure that you adhere to proper code of actions and maintain decorum. The examiner will evaluate you on the basis of every step that you take, hence make sure that you follow a professional approach while doing your duties. If you want to enter the patient's room, make sure that you take permission by knocking on the door. Before starting with the procedure, make sure that the patient has a clear idea about the same and is comfortable with it. Make sure that you respect the privacy of the patients and don't forget to draw the curtains before starting with any medical procedure.
• You may be tested on various set of clinical skills. You may require to help the patients in combing their hair, bathing, dressing, feeding as well as moving them. You may also need to measure and record the patients' vitals such as their blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate and use the medical equipment properly. You may need to change linens and help the patients move from their bed to the wheelchair and vice versa. Remember that these skills will be improved with practice, so ensure that you have practiced them before actually taking the test. If you practice these procedures in the presence of a senior nurse, it will be even better as it will help you in your evaluation and in correcting any mistakes.
• When you are practicing for the clinical skills test, make a list of the best possible methods for each procedure. Keep in mind all the instructions given to you during the CNA training and perform each step in a proper and accurate manner. Make sure you wear gloves if you are coming in contact with the patient. You can skip wearing gloves while feeding the patients.
• You need to be aware of all the safety procedures and measures to be taken while doing your duties. The patient needs to have easy access to the call bell. The gait belts should be properly made use of while transferring the patients. You need to make sure that the wheels of the wheelchair are locked as and when essential. You also need to ensure that all the medical equipments and instruments are sanitized properly after every use. 

The above mentioned tips will help you in preparing for the CNA clinical skills test. The clinical skills are an important parameter on which the candidates are evaluated during the exam. So make sure that you practice the CNA clinical skills properly before you appear for the exam.