How hard is the state of TX certification exam for CNA designation?

[ShirlinDC]

What is the normal length of time it takes a person to take the CNA cert exam (and pass) in the state of Texas?

Please help me set expectations. Is the exam really difficult?

Here is my situation - as of today, I don't have any experience in the medical field. Although, I am majoring in Allied Health (undergrad). I plan to take the CNA course at Kilgore College this summer. I will be eligible to take the state exam after completing the class. I would like to take the exam after the CNA course ends. Is this realistic?

Do I need to work as a CNA for a time period before I can take the exam?

Thank you.

[calcgirl314, ADN, BSN, RN]

Not sure how long ago you posted this, but when I took my classes to become a CNA, the breakdown was as follows: 5 week program with 4 weeks of class and one week of clinicals at a nursing home. One month after classes we took our exam in a single day. I believe we had to be at the nursing home by 6 am for the skills exam, we waited for everyone to finish and then we met at another location to take the written portion of the exam. I think in total it was not more than 8 hours, but its been a few years. Some nursing homes may hire you if you aren't certified as long as you get certified within a certain period of time. You could work at an assisted living, like I did, which doesn't require certification. Beware that it will take about a month to get your paper license after you pass.