CNA Training

If you finished your first nursing fundamentals course/1st nursing school semester check with the state entity that certifies CNAs (some states it's BoN other states it's the dept of health/ dept health. & senior services ) many states permit candidates who passed their first semester of nursing school to challenge the CNA exam with verification of successful nursing fundamentals (or equivalent ) completion as verified by your school.

I didn't study at all during my CNA class and I passed the written exam and clinical exam without any problem. If you pay attention in class and are already taking classes for nursing, you should have no problem with the CNA training/class.

Like JustBeachyNurse said, it can vary; it depends on the state you're living. Therefore, it's always advisable to check with the appropriate authority if they allow to challenge the CNA exam after completing successfully your fundamental training. The CNA exam (a written examination and a skills evaluation) is not that difficult to pass.

Much of the class is common sense. If you do all the required reading, pay attention in class and do SOME studying, I think you will be fine.

It's not rocket science and I don't think it's as difficult as a college class.

Hi!

I am originally from Connecticut and I took my CNA course there through the Red Cross. I recommend the Red Cross any day, I had a great experience and my instructor made the class fun by teaching based on her own personal experiences through years of being a CNA herself. I was 18 years old, and a senior in high school when I completed this course. This was two years ago. I would say that it is definitely easy enough to take along with a college-load of classes. The tests are extremely straight forward and the information is basic and can be found in the course book that you are given. The only thing I remember being annoying was the fact that these classes are time consuming. Once clinicals start you will have to be at the nursing home for a few hours each day, so you have to be committed to come to each class and put in the effort to listen and learn. In terms of the state license exam, it was all basic questions that are similar to the written tests given in class. The only difference is that you will be taking it on the computer. Then you will have to preform a few "skills" that you learned in class. The test administrator will tell you which skills you are to preform. I recommend practicing them on family at home and just going through the motions on your own.

Overall, if an 18 year old high school student can do it...you will be fine.

Good luck!