At Healthcare Graduate we help to connect you with the best CNA classes in your area.
No matter if you are looking for a campus-based CNA training offering classroom instruction, evening or night classes, or an online CNA program we can help you find the best class for you.
Find a State Approved Program
State-approved programs are programs that have been accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Accreditation is an acknowledgement that the program is delivered to the highest nursing education standards and therefore provides the necessary training to students. It is extremely important if you hope to sit state certification exams, further your nursing studies, pursue financial aid assistance, or apply for your nursing license in another state.
You should ensure that your chosen CNA program is state-approved. Before applying to a school you should double-check with your state board about a list of their approved programs.
How to Become a CNA
Requirements for CNA training and approved CNA programs vary from state to state so you should always check your local state regulations before enrolling in any training. It is also worth checking with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing for additional advice.
Complete Approved CNA training
Typically though nursing assistants must have at least a certificate earned via an approved state program. These programs are offered through a variety of settings and organizations including hospitals, nursing homes, vocational schools, and community colleges.
Most CNA programs take between 4 to 16 weeks to complete. State-approved programs usually require a minimum of seventy-five hours of clinical training and classroom instruction.
CNA students are taught a relatively wide array of subjects including long-term care, basic nursing care, taking vital signs, controlling infections, emergency procedures, personal care skills and communication skills
Obtain CNA Certification
Once students have completed a state-accredited CNA program they will be eligible to sit and pass an additional state examination to become fully certified and obtain employment.
Many states also have additional requirements of certification including passing further background checks and completing a certain number of continuing education hours each year.
For specific certification and licensing requirements click on your state below.
Satisfy Continuing Professional Development Requirements
Many states will require you to complete a certain number of continuing professional development training hours each year in order to maintain and keep your certification status. Examples of continuing professional development courses include courses in domestic violence, patient rights, medical record documentation, and first aid.
Choosing a CNA Program
Below you will find a detailed overview and tips on how to choose the best CNA school for you:
- Accreditation: Is the school fully approved by your state nursing board? Unfortunately, there are many certified nursing assistant classes that are not state-approved. If you were to pay to attend one of these schools then you may not be able to get a license to work as a CNA in your state. You will have wasted a lot of time and money.
- Admission Requirements: What qualifications and/or work experience (if any) are required to enroll in the training? Do you have the necessary prerequisites for enrolment in the school?
- Course Structure: How long does the program last or how many hours does it take to complete? How much of the course will be classroom-based, presented online, lab-based, and work experience-based, and how does this fit with your expectations?
- Support and Facilities: Does the school have good facilities and resources to support your studies? Does the school offer any assistance with securing employment as a certified nursing assistant? Some schools have dedicated career counselors to help you with your job search. And did you know that you can also ask schools about their job placement rate for previous classes is so that you will know what to expect?
- Tuition and Fees: How much does the training cost? Costs can vary widely so you will need to find a balance between which CNA school you feel offers the best education and prospects and what fits within your budget. Does the school offer any financial assistance or CNA scholarships?
CNA Program Admissions Requirements
Requirements for CNA training and approved CNA programs vary from state to state so you should always check your local state regulations before enrolling in any training. It is also worth checking with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing for additional advice.
Typically though nursing assistants must have at least a certificate earned via an approved state program. These programs are offered through a variety of settings and organizations including hospitals, nursing homes, vocational schools, and community colleges.
Most accredited CNA programs will require a high school diploma or GED equivalent as a prerequisite to enrollment. You may also be asked to complete an entrance exam, attend an interview, and complete both a health screen and criminal background check.
Prior to enrollment, you will need to complete a CPR and First Aid certification
The minimum age to enroll in a CNA program is typically 18 years old. A valid driver’s license or ID card will be required when enrolling.
CNA Classes Online
Can I become a CNA online?
If you are already juggling work commitments and family responsibilities then finding the time for a structured classroom-based program can be difficult. Or maybe you live in a more remote location without schools or classes nearby. In such cases earning your CNA certification online can allow for much-needed flexibility as well as time and cost savings.
The coronavirus pandemic in 2020/2021 has forced most schools and colleges offering nursing assistant and nurse aide training in the USA to move more and more of their course content online.
However, given that hands-on clinical work experience and some lab experience are required to qualify as a CNA it is not possible to complete your studies 100% online.
Thankfully there are many excellent community colleges and vocational schools which will allow you to complete the classroom-based portions of your studies online allowing you the flexibility to attend to your existing commitments.
As mentioned above, whether your preferred program is online or campus-based, check with your state board to make sure it is a state-approved program.
Free CNA Training
If you wish to become a CNA and are searching for training which is provided for free you could explore some of the following options;
On the job CNA training at a local hospital, healthcare facility, or nursing home
Your local Red Cross may also have some free training options available.
Keep an eye on local job boards and be willing to do a little outreach yourself.
CNA Class Curriculum
To qualify as a CNA you will need to complete a minimum of 75+ hours of learning and training provided by an accredited program.
Your CNA class curriculum is structured to ensure that you are ready to care for patients in a clinical setting. A CNA program will typically cover a rather wide range of topics and provide a range of skills required to work in a variety of settings including hospitals, physicians’ offices, nursing homes, and private home health care.
Subjects covered can generally be split between anatomy and physiology, and patient care and practical skills.
CNA Curriculum: Anatomy and Physiology Topics
- Musculoskeletal systems
- Respiratory systems
- Digestive system
- Cardiovascular system
- Urinary and elimination systems
CNA Curriculum: Patient Care and Practical Skills
- Healthcare and medical terminology
- Healthcare industry administrative systems and procedures
- Collection of specimens
- Bed making
- Dressing and undressing patients
- Bathing and skincare
- Communication skills
Related: Medical Assistant Programs