How to Become a CNA in Puerto Rico?
A certified nursing assistant, or CNA, can also be referred to as a nursing assistant, nurse aide, orderlie, and/or nursing attendant.
If you wish to become a CNA in Puerto Rico (PR), you will need to successfully complete a CNA program at a state-approved school. In addition, you will need to pass state certification exams to become fully certified.
On this page, you will find information on the top CNA training programs near you in Puerto Rico, certification, CNA income, and careers in Puerto Rico.
Top Approved CNA Schools in Puerto Rico
Enrolling in an approved CNA program is the first step towards becoming a CNA in Puerto Rico. CNA training in Puerto Rico is offered through a number of outlets including community colleges, technical colleges, private schools, nursing homes, healthcare facilities, and nonprofit agencies.
The table below provides details of the top – colleges in Puerto Rico offering CNA programs.
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Please note: For a full list of approved CNA programs in Puerto Rico click here.
Training can be completed in only a few months – depending on whether you choose to pursue your studies full time or part-time. The growing availability of online classes will further enable you to complete your studies at a pace that suits you.
It is possible to complete some or all of your CNA training as part of your high school education.
Whilst there are many important considerations when selecting a CNA training program it is highly recommended that you ensure the program you choose has been state-approved.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements will vary by school but typically include:
- You should be at least 16 to 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED certificate
- You will need to pass a medical exam, drug test, and criminal background check
- You will need proof that all of your standard immunizations are up to date
- You will need proof of completion of Healthcare Provider level CPR training
- You will need to provide proof of health insurance cover
CNA Certification Requirements Puerto Rico
Once you have graduated from an approved program you will still need to pass a state certification exam to become fully certified.
Certification in Puerto Rico is managed by the -. You can contact them directly using the contact details below:
Website: –
Phone: –
CNA Salary in Puerto Rico
How much does a CNA make in Puerto Rico?
The average CNA salary in Puerto Rico is $22,350 and is -30% less than the nationwide average salary for nursing assistants.
This translates to an hourly pay of $10.75.
The average salary for CNA’s in Puerto Rico has risen by 12%, or $2,400, since 2016.
| Average Salary | $22,350 |
|---|---|
| Hourly Wage | $10.75 |
| Top 10% of Earners | $39,180 |
| Bottom 10% of Earners | $16,150 |
| #'s Employed | 820 |
The above data is based on information released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2021.
Salary Range
- The top 10% of earners in the profession in Puerto Rico make an average salary of $39,180 whilst the bottom 10%, or entry level nursing assistants, make just $16,150 per annum.
- Across the main cities and metro areas, nursing assistants working in – earn the highest average salaries in Puerto Rico at – per annum. Those working in – earn the lowest average salaries at – per annum.
| City Area | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arecibo | $17,740 | $8.53 | - |
| San Juan-Carolina-Caguas | $24,670 | $11.86 | 530 |
Employment
There are currently 820 persons employed as nursing assistants in Puerto Rico (2021). This represents a rise of 24%, or 160 jobs, since 2016.
The highest number of those working as nursing assistants in Puerto Rico are based in -.
Career Outlook for CNAs in Puerto Rico
Average salaries have increased by 12% since 2016 whilst the number of jobs for the profession in Puerto Rico has experienced a rise of 24% over the same period.
Going forward the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment growth of 8% between 2019 and 2029 with almost 117,000 new positions being created nationwide. This is much faster than the average for all other professions at 4%.
CNAs Compared to Other Nursing Roles
The table below compares salary and employment for nursing assistants with other nursing roles in Puerto Rico.
| Nursing Careers | Salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| CNA | $22,350 | 820 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | $23,840 | 4,310 |
| Registered Nurse | $35,450 | 19,250 |
| Nurse Practitioner | $111,560 | 8,150 |
CNAs Compared to Related Healthcare Roles
The table below compares salary and employment for nursing assistants with similar or related healthcare careers in Puerto Rico.
| Related Careers | Salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| CNA | $22,350 | 820 |
| Medical Assistant | $24,430 | 490 |
| EMT Paramedic | $21,620 | 2,190 |
| Home Health Care Aide | $18,020 | 6,640 |
| Psychiatric Aides | $23,680 | 40 |
| Phlebotomist | $20,470 | 340 |
| Respiratory Therapist | $23,500 | 580 |