CNA certification: a how-to guide

If you are already working in the health care industry as a nursing assistant or are considering this type of work, you may want to take the voluntary certified nursing assistant (CNA) certification.

CNA training is available at accredited local schools, medical facilities or community colleges, or you can opt for online CNA courses. The drawback to enrolling in online CNA courses is that you would lack hands-on experience and knowledge of laboratory and clinical practices. If you already work in the care industry, then choosing to follow online CNA courses is a valid option.

Becoming a certified nursing assistant offers you opportunities to work in a variety of health-related workplaces, such as:

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  • Hospitals.
    
  • Nursing care facilities.
    
  • Care facilities for the elderly.
    
  • Home health agencies.
    
  • Assisted-living facilities.
    
  • Doctors' offices.
    

Once you have qualified as a CNA, you may find that the range of employment opportunities is immense, no matter where you live.

CNA training and the official certification process normally lasts from six to 12 weeks or longer depending on your schedule. Before you take up any CNA training, you must ensure the course is officially recognized. You can check out potential courses with the Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) or with your state's Nursing Aide Registry.

You may opt to work in nursing homes or long-term care facilities that offer training and practical application to be able to acquire the CNA certificate and to guarantee employment once you have received your CNA certificate.

Some other sources of CNA training include the American Red Cross, which may offer you discounted rates, and local community colleges, which often offer online CNA courses.

When you have completed your CNA training, you will need to acquire the state-issued professional CNA certificate. This usually entails taking an examination to verify that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform as a certified nursing assistant. After practicing this profession for a while, you may consider training for a professional nurse credential.

If you do decide to train to become a nurse, you can attend a traditional nursing school or take an online nursing degree. There are a number of online nursing degree programs to choose from, including:

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  • Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which enables you to become a registered nurse.
    
  • Online or credit-by-examination Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).
    
  • RN-to-BSN programs.
    

As you can see, there are many ways to acquire a CNA certification, and you can even study in the comfort of your own home.

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